Residents and officials cite coverage gaps as board weighs tower review and federal "shot‑clock" timing

During a presentation on wireless‑siting review, Cityscape consultant Elizabeth Smith explained federal timing that governs tower applications. “The shot clock for a new tower is that you have to, from start to finish, adjudicate within 150 days,” Smith said, describing how tolling can pause the clock when an application is incomplete.

Boardmembers asked how the town should communicate deficiencies to applicants to ensure tolling is recorded; Smith advised clear written notices that list specific regulatory grounds for incompleteness. The procedural timing was a central reason the board chose to pause contract signing while it circulates the RFP to multiple consultants.

Residents emphasized coverage and safety concerns in public comment. One resident said there is no service in portions of the valley and warned radios and cell phones lose connectivity on remote roads. Jim Davenport, who identified himself during public comment, said the lack of service is severe: “there's absolutely nothing there,” and he urged the town to prioritize restoring coverage for safety and convenience.

Town officials noted that Cityscape can review technical propagation maps and balloon‑test documentation to determine whether colocation or a new tower is necessary. The board did not make a final decision on the Homeland Towers application at the meeting; instead officials paused contracting and will seek additional technical review proposals before acting.