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Planning Board approves SBA equipment upgrades at 613 Route 20 under federal Eligible Facilities rule
Summary
The Chester Planning Board unanimously approved SBA's equipment upgrades at 613 Route 20 as an Eligible Facilities Request under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012, while noting missing RFE reporting and asking the Town Administrator for valuation and contract histories.
The Chester Planning Board voted unanimously June 25 to approve an SBA request to upgrade communications equipment at the monopoles on the property at 613 Route 20. Chair Liz Massa said the upgrades will not change tower height or the tower's ground footprint and were presented as an Eligible Facilities Request under Section 6409(a) of the Spectrum Act of 2012.
The board recorded that the Town Attorney agreed the work is minor and does not require a special permit. Members also noted SBA has not provided the annual RFE reporting required and asked the Town Administrator to compile a history of the town's cell-tower and solar agreements and contracts, plus comparable tax-valuation and income data from the Tax Assessor for other towns.
Board member Richard Holzman pressed for stronger foliage and site-impact language to be included in future lease renewals even though these upgrades do not change height or footprint; members pointed out both SBA leases include four additional five-year renewal terms and that one contract is expiring soon. After discussion, Bob Daley moved to approve the modification request; Muriel Hall seconded and the motion passed with all members voting aye.
The board's actions were procedural approval of the specific Eligible Facilities Request; no special permit was required and no change in tower dimensions was authorized. The board directed staff to gather valuation and contract-history materials to inform future lease negotiations and renewals.
