Planning commission continues hearing on proposed 65-foot Verizon 'monopine' tower in Willett to June 19

The Mendocino County Planning Commission opened the public hearing on a use permit for a 65-foot cellular antenna tower (U20240004) proposed by Cellco Partnership doing business as Verizon Wireless, then continued the matter to a date certain of June 19, 2025, because state-agency notice periods had not concluded.

Planner Keith Gornaldyke presented the project and photo simulations showing a monopine-style tower sited on private property in the Willett area, roughly 790–860 feet from Sherwood Road and screened among existing pine trees. Staff completed an initial study and recommended a CEQA negative declaration, finding potential impacts would be less than significant with mitigation and conditions of approval.

Applicant agent Matthew Moore said the landlord's primary residence is in Ukiah and that he did not have a prepared presentation. Moore told the commission the facility would comply with all local and state fire codes and building permit requirements and noted that backup generators are required by the California Public Utilities Commission to keep service during power outages: "[Backup generators] are mandated by the CPUC that these facilities do have backup generators…so that people can stay in contact," he said.

Members of the public and adjacent property owners spoke against the siting. Dina Williams, who identified herself as a Sullivan Homeowners Association board member, cited environmental concerns in the heavily forested area. Adjacent property owner Ale Reynieto said she objected to the tower, voiced concern about nighttime generator noise, frequent power outages, fire-safety risk, and asked whether the applicant would assist with private road maintenance since landowners pay road dues.

One commissioner asked staff to consider a special condition requiring abatement of nuisance conditions and removal of abandoned vehicles and unsafe structures on the property before construction; staff said the noticing issue requires continuance and that the commission and staff would work on those concerns and return with updates at the continued hearing.

Because of minor posting errors to the state clearinghouse, county counsel and staff said the notice period for state agencies would not conclude until June 18, 2025, and the commission must continue final action to the June 19 meeting. A motion to continue to the June 19, 2025 meeting was made and seconded; roll call recorded Chair Babini, Commissioner Jones, Commissioner Pollan and Commissioner Richards voting yes, and the motion passed unanimously.