Board approves 197-foot communications tower at Rock Spring Baptist Church

The Mecklenburg County Board of Supervisors voted to approve a special-exception permit for a proposed 197-foot communications tower at Rock Spring Baptist Church (PRN 18014) in Election District 1. The planning commission had recommended approval.

Jonathan Yates of Arcola Towers, representing the applicant, said the facility is designed for Verizon Wireless and up to three additional broadband carriers and described the site selection, FAA review and setback compliance. Yates told the board the closest off-site residence is about "829 feet away" and said the facility would "not produce any noise, odor, lights, vibration, dust, fumes, or glare" and would be remotely operated with only periodic technician visits.

Ryan Folsom, also with Arcola Towers, estimated the practical coverage radius for this rural site at roughly "1 to 3 mile[s]," noting that topography and tree cover affect service and that winter conditions with fewer leaves generally improve reach. Folsom said the tower would extend reliable wireless voice and broadband to areas "that sorely absolutely needs it." Board members and staff discussed coverage across the reservoir and interaction with an existing tower on the opposite side of the water.

After a brief public hearing with no speakers, the supervisor for District 1 moved to accept the special-exception plat. The board voted in favor by voice vote and the motion carried.

What happens next: Staff and the county attorney were authorized to finalize permitting and any contract language necessary for construction and oversight; the applicant reported a 45–60 day timeline to erect the structure once foundations are set, with most of the on-site construction completed rapidly and routine operation handled remotely.