Planning board approves Verizon small wireless facility for Big Indian firehouse

The Shandaken Planning Board voted unanimously July 8 to approve a special use permit allowing Verizon to install a small wireless facility near the Big Indian Fire Department. Scott Olsen, who identified himself as representing Verizon, told the board the plan calls for a 50-foot utility pole with an antenna and a 9-by-10-foot equipment compound and that the company had secured the necessary ZBA variances.

"We're looking to build a new small wireless facility at the Big Indian fire department," Scott Olsen said, adding the installation "will be fully compliant with the FCC regulations" and "well below that threshold" for emissions. Olsen also said the company is pursuing alternative sites after opposition to a previous Phoenicia location and is coordinating with the county on leasing and design details.

Board members reviewed a draft resolution submitted by Verizon and discussed whether to incorporate standard language into the record. A member moved to accept the resolution and approve the special use permit; the motion was seconded and the clerk conducted a roll-call vote in which all members present voted yes. The vote record was read into the minutes and the applicant was thanked for the presentation.

The approval authorizes the company to proceed with the small wireless facility as described in the application materials; board members noted the ZBA had already granted area and use variances necessary for the project. The board did not make additional conditions beyond those in the resolution. Verizon said it will continue to work with the county and property owner on leasing and site design.