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Commission reviews permit for 165-foot radio tower behind Farmville church amid safety, historic concerns
Summary
The planning commission heard a conditional-use permit request for a 165-foot radio tower at 2086 Cumberland Road. Commissioners and a former pilot raised safety and historic-preservation concerns; staff said the tower had FCC approval and applicants sought a waiver to exceed the parcel fall-radius requirement.
The Cumberland County Planning Commission opened a public hearing on a conditional-use permit (CUP25-02) for a 165-foot radio tower erected behind the Farm Bill Seventh-day Adventist Church at 2086 Cumberland Road. Staff said the tower was installed in April of last year without local permits, the applicant later obtained FCC authorization (application filed in 2021), and the applicant is now seeking a waiver from the county code provision that towers be designed to fall within parcel boundaries (section 74-7-36(c)(7)).
During the presentation, staff reviewed maps, the site survey and the comprehensive-plan designation, said the tower’s fenced area covers about 0.8 acres, and noted the applicant had offered the county space on the tower for emergency services equipment. Staff told commissioners notice had been published in the Farmville Herald and adjoining owners were contacted; one adjoining owner inquired by phone and another requested to participate by Zoom.
Commissioners and members of the public questioned safety, visibility and historic context. A commissioner with piloting experience said the tower “could be an issue” for aircraft approaching the nearby Randolph area and urged more visible paint or lighting even though the FCC generally does not require lights for towers under 200 feet. The official also disputed staff’s assertion there was no historic significance, citing the April 7, 1865 Battle of Cumberland Church on part of the property. Staff said the FCC and engineers determine allowable height to avoid interference and that they had informed state police and local fire/EMS; staff also noted county ordinance calls for neutral or galvanized finishes and prohibits artificial lighting unless required by FAA or other governing authorities.
Pastor Melvin King, identified himself as the applicant’s representative, said the church obtained FCC permits and was unaware local permits were required; he said fencing and safety measures would be addressed once the zoning permit was in place. Staff reiterated that the commission could recommend conditions—such as painting or other visibility measures—as part of a CUP recommendation to the board. Commissioners voted on the matter during the meeting.
