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Commission approves Verizon small‑cell height increase in Sierra Vista to expand coverage
Summary
The commission approved a special use allowing a small‑cell communications tower to be raised to 48 feet 3 inches at 430 N. 7th St., finding the change complies with zoning factors and will improve local wireless coverage; staff recommended a commercial permit prior to work.
The Cochise County Planning and Zoning Commission on June 12 approved a special‑use request to increase the height of an existing wireless communications tower in a Sierra Vista commercial area.
Staff presenter Larsala described docket SU26‑06: increasing tower height from 40 feet to 48 feet 3 inches at 430 North 7th Street. Staff said the change is compliant with zoning factors, improves coverage for nearby residents and businesses in the general business zoning district, and that no opposition was received from adjacent property owners.
Christie Mobley, the applicant representing Verizon Wireless, said the request involves only a height increase and no change to the lease area: “There will be no change to the lease area. It’s just the height increase to expand coverage,” she said.
Commissioners asked about the tower’s setback and the risk if a pole were to fall; staff noted a previously approved variance established setbacks, and Mobley said Verizon will complete permitting, FAA and FCC clearances and coordinate with electric providers as part of the construction permitting process. Commissioner Tucker asked whether the upgrade will increase bandwidth and Mobley confirmed equipment swaps will improve capacity and reliability.
Staff recommended approval with conditions that limit the structure to 48 feet 3 inches and require a commercial permit before any construction or on‑site storage begins. The commission’s roll‑call vote recorded unanimous approval; Commissioner Tucker noted reservations but voted yes. Staff noted the usual 15‑day appeal period to the Board of Supervisors.
The approval permits the modest height increase and equipment changes necessary for Verizon to expand local wireless service, subject to standard permitting and clearance from relevant agencies.
