Planning commission approves conditional use permit for cell tower co‑location at 210 N 3400 W

The Planning Commission on a voice vote approved a conditional use permit (CUP 26‑13) to formalize a telecommunications tower already constructed at or near 210 North 3400 West and to permit Verizon to co‑locate equipment.

Staff told commissioners the tower was erected after site‑plan approval but without the conditional use permit required by code. "The tower is not lit. FAA did not require it," a planning staff member said, noting the department completed an airspace analysis for the FAA and was told lighting was not required. SBA Communications' representatives, participating remotely, said they would add lighting if a future hospital helipad triggered FAA requirements.

Commissioners asked about the structure's height and setbacks and whether planned development behind the site could affect compatibility. A planner said the property currently meets standards because there are no nearby residential structures; the planner added that future residential development would be aware that a cell tower exists on the parcel. The commission approved the CUP "subject to staff and JUC comments," after a motion and second.

The decision formalizes the site's permitting status and allows Verizon's planned co‑location to proceed; staff will monitor any subsequent FAA or site changes that would require additional conditions or lighting.