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Avon Park council approves rezoning for cell tower near airport after debate over beacon lighting
Summary
On June 23, 2025 the Avon Park City Council approved a rezoning and lease amendment to allow a telecommunications facility at 304 West Pleasant Street, despite pilots and some council members urging a beacon; staff cited an FAA determination that marking and lighting are not required.
The Avon Park City Council on June 23 approved Ordinance 13-2025 to rezone about 1.19 acres at 304 West Pleasant Street to a planned unit development to accommodate a telecommunications facility, and approved a related lease amendment with City Switch.
Jeff, a representative from the Central Florida Regional Planning Council who presented the item, said the applicant provided coverage maps, a registered engineer’s fall‑zone analysis and coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration and the Avon Park Airport. He said the FAA issued a "determination of no hazard" and that, in its evaluation, "marking and lighting are not necessary."
The issue drew questions from pilots and council members concerned about aircraft safety and visibility. One council member said local pilots would prefer a beacon and urged the council to require one; another member raised concerns about the camouflage and aesthetic treatment of the facility and whether a light would be visible from Pleasant Street. Jeff and staff replied that the FAA letter and coordination with the airport did not recommend lighting and that the city’s land‑development code prohibits tower lighting unless required by the FAA or needed for safety.
The council also heard that the applicant coordinated with the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office for access and provided an engineer’s assessment that the tower’s fall zone would be 34 feet, which staff said fits within the project boundaries. After discussion, the council moved to approve the ordinance on its second reading.
The council then approved a first amendment to the existing lease with City Switch to align lease exhibits with the newly granted land approvals.
The vote on Ordinance 13-2025 was recorded as follows: Council Member Magcguire — yes; Council Member Murker — no; Council Member Taylor — no; Deputy Mayor Bernard — yes; Mayor Anderson — yes. The motion passed 3–2. The lease amendment with City Switch was approved by the same roll-call pattern. The council indicated construction review and standard development conditions remain before any work can begin.
