Planning commission approves 75‑foot monopole on city property, extends discontinuation window to one year

The Taft Planning Commission on Nov. 25 approved Conditional Use Permit 2025‑13 for a 75‑foot monopole wireless telecommunications facility on city property at the south end of Enterprise Way (APN 20220‑290‑07), and modified the proposed conditions to extend the discontinuation period from six months to one year.

Planning staff presented the tier‑2 review findings, noting the project meets Taft Municipal Code requirements for wireless telecommunications facilities when conditioned. Staff said the applicant provided an alternative‑sites analysis, FAA verification, an EME report attesting compliance with FCC exposure limits, and coverage maps showing improved in‑building and outdoor service.

Assurance Development representatives Phoebe and Bill said the tower will enable Verizon to improve in‑building coverage and support multiple carriers and first‑responder communications, including 911 reliability. Bill said the tower owner is Vertical Bridge and requested the commission lengthen the six‑month discontinuation period to one year to allow time to secure a replacement anchor tenant if Verizon discontinues service.

Commissioners and staff discussed design and screening (radome/shrouding, desert‑tan finish), underground utilities, and the lease term (initial five years with multiple five‑year renewals). A motion to adopt the resolution approving CUP 2025‑13 with the modification to Planning Condition 2 (extend discontinuation from six months to one year) passed on roll call with one abstention. The approval includes conditions to paint the monopole a desert tan, provide screening for antennas, install full‑width screening on the perimeter fence, and place related utilities underground.