Residents and commissioners block proposed cell tower at Mountain View Park

Pocono Township commissioners unanimously moved to reject a proposal to place a cellular tower at Mountain View Park after a lengthy public comment period and board discussion on Aug. 3.

The board heard a written plea read into the record from resident Charlie Lynn Chapaso, who described Mountain View Park as “one of Monroe County’s treasures” and warned that “a cell tower would fundamentally alter the character and beauty of Mountain View Park.” A representative for TowerCo (identified as Charles on the call) said carriers had asked his firm to search for sites to resolve coverage gaps and emphasized public‑safety benefits. Charles explained the company “works on behalf of Verizon, AT&T or T‑Mobile” and said site selection aimed to “limit disturbance of the land.”

But dozens of residents who spoke in person and online said the tower location offered in the proposer’s packet would place equipment too close to active recreation areas. One resident noted the proposal’s map mislocated pickleball courts; another asked why the township would site infrastructure in a public park rather than on private land or higher ground where existing towers already stand. Commissioner comments acknowledged both points: one member said poor coverage is “a public‑safety hazard” in parts of the township, while others emphasized the park’s value and the concerns voiced by residents.

After discussing lease economics and technical coverage tradeoffs, the board approved a motion stating it would not accept a cell‑tower lease for Mountain View Park. The resolution does not preclude future proposals at different locations; commissioners said a better‑sited proposal could be considered later.

The board instructed staff to notify the company that the township will not accept the proposal for Mountain View Park and to request clearer maps and alternate site options if carriers wish to continue discussions.