Commission approves 150‑foot cell tower in Doney Park to fill local coverage gap

The commission on June 25 approved Conditional Use Permit CUP25018, clearing the way for a 150‑foot monopole telecommunications facility on Loop Road in the Doney Park area.

Staff presentation and findings Jess McNeely and Zach Schwartz of planning staff described the proposal: the tower would be located at 7270 Loop Road on a 3.27‑acre heavy‑industrial parcel owned by Black Heart Logistics and would include equipment cabinets and a backup generator inside a 60x60‑foot fenced lease area. Staff presented photo simulations and carrier coverage maps showing a gap in coverage in the area; the applicant reported no nearby towers or suitable co‑location opportunities and documented outreach to neighboring heavy‑industrial property owners for potential leases.

Why the commission approved it Staff and the applicant argued that the structure was the least intrusive means to close the coverage gap and that the site ranked as a reasonably preferred facility under the zoning ordinance because it is a tower in an industrial zone and falls within the preferred‑facilities list. Staff found the proposal consistent with applicable comprehensive and area‑plan policies that support expanded wireless access when compatible with surrounding uses. No public comments were received at the hearing.

Commission action Commissioner David Hayward moved to approve CUP25018; Commissioner Williams seconded. The motion passed unanimously.

What happens next The approval authorizes the conditional use permit subject to the conditions in the staff report, including required permits and engineering standards. The applicant must secure building permits and adhere to required setbacks, lighting, and operational conditions.