Planning commission approves AT&T Laguna Creek Trailhead wireless facility, allows 80-foot structure in Vineyard community

The Sacramento County Planning Commission on Sept. 8 approved a conditional use permit, a special development permit and a design review for an AT&T wireless communications facility near the intersection of Crystal Creek Drive and Vineyard Road in the Vineyard community.

Christopher Alberts, associate planner with the county’s Planning and Environmental Review division, presented the project on behalf of staff. Alberts described the proposal as a leased wireless communication facility sited within Laguna Creek Parkway, an open-space designation. The applicant requested a conditional use permit to allow the facility, a special development permit to deviate from the county’s 55-foot height limit, and design review. The commission’s action authorized an 80-foot-tall structure designed to resemble a water tank.

Alberts told the commission the antennas would be consolidated within the water-tank form so they would not be visible from the public right-of-way. A design band proposed by the Wilton Rancheria Band of Miwok Indians was incorporated into the exterior treatment. The tower includes a potential colocation location at 62 feet for future providers; associated equipment would sit on a 4-foot steel platform because the project site is within a flood zone. Photo simulations in the staff presentation showed the projected visual profile from several nearby streets, and staff provided standalone radio-frequency coverage maps showing improved indoor coverage and reduced gaps in the eastern portion of the service area.

Staff reported the project underwent environmental review and that a mitigated negative declaration was prepared after an initial study; a notice of intent to adopt the mitigated negative declaration was released on July 3, 2025, with a 30-day public review period. Staff said the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board submitted a standard comment about permitting requirements. Planning staff reported receiving six public comments in opposition; staff provided written responses. The Design Review Advisory Committee recommended the project be found in substantial compliance with design guidelines, and the Vineyard Community Planning Advisory Council recommended approval.

Mark Lobaugh of Epic Wireless spoke for the applicant and said AT&T had executed a lease with the park district; he said the park district requested the water-tank design and approved the proposed colors and exterior treatments. No members of the public signed up to speak during the hearing.

A commissioner moved to approve the project consistent with staff recommendations; another commissioner seconded the motion. One commissioner announced a recusal prior to the presentation because a spouse serves as chair of the local park district; that recusal was noted on the record. The commission voted to advance the project; staff recorded the motion as passing.

The project file is PLMP2024-00800087. Staff noted no significant environmental concerns remained after mitigation; the mitigated negative declaration and any required permits from regional agencies remain conditions for the project’s implementation.