Council reviews expanded cell-tower proposal; members raise siting and size concerns

Developers of a proposed cellular facility asked Lewiston to permit a larger equipment compound than originally requested, prompting council discussion about location, size and compatibility with nearby uses.

Staff said the company originally sought a modest equipment footprint and now proposes increasing the fenced compound substantially (discussion referenced a potential 50-by-50-foot footprint). Councilmembers raised concerns about whether the rodeo grounds location remains appropriate for a site of that size and whether alternative municipal properties (near the city salt/sand sheds, the business park or other city-owned lots) should be considered. Staff and council agreed the site would remain fenced and that utility pull and communications-line routing (Comcast/high-capacity fiber) were part of the company’s infrastructure needs.

Why it matters: tower siting affects land use, aesthetics, future facility planning and the city’s ability to place other improvements on municipal land. Councilmembers said it would be preferable to examine several siting options and confirm whether underground utilities (water/sewer) would be impacted by installation.

Next steps

City staff will follow up with the carrier to request a site walk, a clearer footprint and additional information about underground infrastructure needs and any compensation changes for a larger compound. Council members suggested staff also explore placing the compound near existing fenced city infrastructure where a new fence or improved perimeter could serve dual purposes.