Planning panel backs 199‑foot Tillman Infrastructure tower near I‑70

The Leavenworth County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a 199‑foot monopole telecommunications tower proposed by Tillman Infrastructure on a rural RR‑5 parcel near Interstate 70.

Planning staff summarized the application, noting the proposed one‑acre lease site, gravel access drive, six‑foot screening fence and landscaping, and that telecommunications siting is heavily regulated by state and federal law. Staff also explained that recent state statutory changes limited the commission’s ability to require certain preconditions (for example, local colocation proofs or RF‑engineer testimony for towers above 150 feet); the applicant nevertheless supplied an engineer letter and an FAA “no hazard” determination.

Applicant Patrick Erwin told the commission Tillman has a long‑term lease with AT&T as an anchor tenant and will market the site to additional carriers. Mr. Erwin said the company selected 199 feet to avoid FAA lighting requirements while meeting carrier needs and confirmed filings with the FAA and FCC.

Commissioners asked technical and procedural questions about power availability and regulatory compliance; staff noted Evergy is coordinating with the applicant to extend service. After brief public comment and no substantive opposition, the commission voted 8–0 to recommend approval to the Board of County Commissioners.

The commission’s recommendation, including staff conditions, will be forwarded to the BOCC; the BOCC is scheduled to consider the item on June 3, 2026.