Planning Commission approves amended Title 19 language on wireless communication facilities

The Petersburg Borough Planning Commission voted unanimously on Feb. 10, 2026, to recommend that the Borough Assembly amend Title 19 (Zoning) to address wireless communication facilities. The commission adopted multiple amendments to the draft ordinance and directed staff edits to clarify technical standards and permitting.

Commission Secretary Sarah Fine-Walsh read a written public comment submitted by Nicole McMurren that "included questions regarding the draft ordinance, specifically related to height restrictions, setback requirements, and the language concerning approval tracks and exemptions." Commissioners and Director Liz Cabrera discussed tower height limits, co-location, and distinctions between existing and new towers during the public hearing.

Fine-Walsh moved — and Vice-Chair Heather O'Neil seconded — an amendment to Section 11 (Exemptions) to add the word "sole" so that the Public Safety Communications exemption applies for the sole purpose of providing emergency services; the motion passed unanimously. Director Cabrera also added language to Section 7 clarifying the technical and safety standards "applies to new, co‑location, and routine maintenance." Another amendment moved to require that all standalone towers in the Public Use zone be permitted only via the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process; that amendment passed 5-0.

The commission then voted 5-0 on the original motion as amended to forward the recommended Title 19 changes to the Borough Assembly for consideration. The recommendation now includes the added "sole" language for public safety exemptions, the clarifying language in Section 7 about applicability to new and co-located facilities and routine maintenance, and the CUP requirement for standalone towers in Public Use zones. The commission did not attach a timetable for assembly consideration during the meeting.