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Bartlett Planning Board approves T‑Mobile backup generator without public hearing
Summary
The Planning Board unanimously approved a minor modification allowing T‑Mobile to install a 48‑kW diesel backup generator at its Mittenwald site; the board found the work to be ground‑level and not visible and therefore not subject to a public hearing, and the approval allows the applicant to apply for a building permit.
The Bartlett Planning Board voted unanimously June 1 to permit T‑Mobile to install a backup diesel generator at its Mittenwald cell site and to forward the matter to the Selectmen’s office so the company can apply for a building permit without a public hearing.
Jeff DelliColli, presenting for T‑Mobile on behalf of Centerline Communications, described the project as part of a hardening program that adds backup power so cellular sites remain operational during outages. He said the proposed unit is a 48‑kilowatt diesel generator in a steel enclosure with a sound attenuator and that the tank is double‑walled for leak protection. "It runs about 65 decibels which is equivalent to a vacuum cleaner," DelliColli said, and added the generator performs a weekly self‑test ("it runs weekly" and typically tests Tuesdays at 10 a.m.).
Board members asked whether the generator would be notice‑worthy and whether neighbors would be informed. DelliColli said minor ground‑level changes that are not visible and do not increase tower height typically do not trigger notice requirements under the bylaws; Vicki Garland noted the change will appear in meeting minutes that are public record. The applicant confirmed the generator runs on diesel, requires roughly 200 gallons to run about seven days and is remotely controlled by the network operations center so it shuts down automatically when utility power is restored.
The board moved, seconded and voted unanimously to approve the request and direct the applicant to apply for a building permit through the Selectmen’s office without a public hearing.
Next steps: The applicant will apply for a building permit and, if required by conditions of that review, secure any additional permits or inspections before installation.
