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Board approves special‑use permit for fiber‑optic booster; applicant says it enables future service
Summary
Harris County approved a special‑use permit for a small fiber‑optic utility shelter (booster station) at 491 Fortune Hole Road. Applicant Amanda Canada said the structure will support continuity of fiber lines and could make future consumer service possible, though a provider would be a separate step.
During the public hearing portion of the May 5 meeting, applicants Rex Atkinson and Amanda Canada requested a special‑use permit for a one‑acre site at 491 Fortune Hole Road to host a fiber‑optic utility shelter (a booster station needed periodically along long fiber runs).
Amanda Canada explained the shelter is a necessary utility structure to continue fiber optic lines and that boosters are needed roughly every 50 miles. Commissioners asked clarifying questions about whether the infrastructure could allow future internet service for nearby residents; Canada said the infrastructure is a prerequisite that would make service possible but that obtaining a retail provider to use the fiber would be a separate step and is not guaranteed.
After the public hearing and a return to open session, a motion to approve the application for the special‑use permit was made, seconded and carried unanimously.
