HomeMy WebLinkAboutApplication Completeness ReviewA.M
Planning
May 30, 2014
Todd Fiebig, Project Manager
New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC
19801 SW 72nd Avenue
Tualatin, OR 97062
Subject: Completeness Review for New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3)
Dear Todd:
I am writing in response to your Conditional Use Permit application for a new wireless
telecommunication facility on behalf of New Cingular Wireless, PCS, LLC (AT&T) and the property
owner. As referenced above, the City has assigned a file name and number (CU 14-3). We have
already received public testimony about the current name of the church being "Crossfire" rather than
"Calvary." While Cavalry Church still appears to be the current owner of the property, we have
revised the application name to clearly reference Crossfire Ministries. Please update your application
materials accordingly, throughout..
As indicated in the enclosed materials, there are several other additional pieces of information
needed before we schedule a public hearing and start the public notice and review process. The first
step of the application process is "Completeness Review" to determine whether we have enough
information to evaluate the approval criteria and standards. Enclosed is information about the
Completeness Review process, including a form for you to complete and return to me, about how you
would like to proceed (entitled "Incomplete Land Use Application - 180 Day Completeness Review
Process").
We have not completed a full evaluation of the application materials. Completeness Review is a
process by which we outline the minimum expectations of an applicant with regard to evidence and
written text that articulates that evidence to the approval criteria. At this point, the evidence and
narrative are insufficient. Even if you are able to produce the evidence and narrative as expected,
this does not guarantee a favorable outcome, as we have serious concerns about this project being
viable underthe applicable approval criteria and standards.
Before proceeding with collecting additional information, I would like to discuss potential
alternatives. Let.me know if you have any questions.
City of Eugene • 99 W. 10th Ave. • Eugene, OR 97401 • 541-682-5481 • 541-682-5572 Fax
www.eugene-or.gov/planning
Sincerely,
Becky Taylor, Associate Planner
becky.g.taylor@ci.eugene.or.us
541-682-5437
cc: Sharon Gretch, Ken Lyons
9-APINN"
Planning
Incomplete Land Use Application:
180 Day Completeness Review Process
Please Complete and Return to:
Eugene Planning Division
Attn: Becky Taylor, Associate Planner
File New Cingular Wireless - Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3)
99 West 10`" Avenue
Eugene, OR 97401
Completeness Review Step (Check ONE box)
❑ I intend to submit all of the missing or incomplete materials as identified by the City in completeness
review. I understand that according to State law I have up to 180 days from the date the application
was submitted to provide the missing or incomplete materials and that after that date, if I have not
submitted the missing information, my application will be void. I also hereby agree to allow the City a
reasonable period of time for a review and determination of completeness upon submittal of the
missing or incomplete materials and the required number of copies.
❑ I intend to submit some, but not all, of the missing or incomplete materials as identified by the City in
completeness review. I understand that according to State law I have up to 180 days from the date
the application was submitted to provide the missing or incomplete materials that I intend to submit
and that after that date, if I have not submitted the missing information, my application will be void. I
also hereby agree to allow the City a reasonable period of time for a review and determination of
completeness, upon submittal of the missing or incomplete materials and the required number of
copies. The materials I do not intend to submit are those items I have listed on the lines below (attach
additional sheets if necessary).
❑ I do not intend to submit any of the missing or incomplete materials as identified by the City in the
completeness review. I understand that the City will proceed with review of the application materials
previously submitted. I also understand that incomplete applications may not provide adequate
evidence to demonstrate compliance with applicable criteria and standards. Please deem my
application complete as of the date this form is received by the City of Eugene Planning Division.
Printed Name of Applicant or Applicant's Representative
Signature of Applicant or Applicant's Representative Date
City of Eugene • 99 W. 10th Ave. • Eugene, OR 97401 • 541-682-5481 • 541-682-5572 Fax
www.eugene-or.gov/planning
Attachment A
Completeness Review of Conditional Use Permit Criteria:
Excerpt from City of Eugene Land Use Code, Chapter 9
The application materials for New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) are lacking
sufficient information to evaluate and determine compliance with the applicable Conditional Use
Permit approval criteria at Eugene Code (EC) 9.8090. The code standard is provided in bold with
staff concerns identified under each.
EC 9.8090(1): The proposal is consistent with applicable provisions of the Metro Plan and
applicable refinement plans.
The written statement does not identify the Metro Plan land use diagram designation, which is
low-density residential. As such, the Metro Plan Residential Land Use policies should be reviewed
with an explanation to determine applicability. More information also appears necessary to show
compliance with Policy E:4 of the Metro Plan, in light of recent case law established in Northgreen
Properties v. City of Eugene. Staff advises the applicant to closely review that recent case history
for the type of findings and evidence that is necessary to demonstrate that the facility is "designed
and located in a manner that preserves and enhances desirable features of the local and
neighborhood areas and promotes their sense of identity."
EC 9.8090(2): The location, size, design, and operating characteristics of the proposal are
reasonably compatible with and have minimal impact on the livability or appropriate
development of surrounding property, as they relate to the following factors:
(a) The proposed building(s) mass and scale are physically suitable for the type and
density of use being proposed.
The written statement needs to better articulate compliance with this criterion with supporting
evidence. The conclusive statement without supporting evidence and findings are insufficient. The
statement says the monopine is designed to look like other evergreen trees in the immediate area,
but the photos show few evergreen trees in close proximity. The statement also concludes that
the ancillary equipment shed will look like an extension of the chapel. This needs to be illustrated
and better explained as to how it fits within the area in terms of mass and scale and impact on the
surroundings. The applicant should also consider the possibility that a variance may not be
granted to allow above ground ancillary facilities, and provide for alternative designs (e.g.
underground or fully enclosed with additional sound buffering) as a contingency or means to
better address the approval criteria.
(b) The proposed structures, parking lots, outdoor use areas or other site
improvements which could cause substantial off-site impacts such as noise, glare
and odors are oriented away from nearby residential uses and/or are adequately
mitigated through other design techniques, such as screening and increased
setbacks.
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Church (CU 14-3) Page 1 of 3
Attachment A
Screening is not addressed at all in the written statement or adequately shown on the plans. The
expectation on screening has been clarified in other cases which the applicant should review for a
better understanding of what is required.
Noise -The evidence about noise levels casts doubt regarding compliance.
Glare - Lighting is not discussed (i.e. around the equipment area).
Visual Impacts -The photo simulations show significant visual impacts, which are not adequately
addressed in the written statement or otherwise addressed within the application materials. Staff
believes that the applicant would needs to undertake extensive work to better represent the
visual impact of the tower with more sophisticated and accurate photo simulations, and from a
variety of additional viewpoints (e.g. views from nearby homes). Even then, it may be that a
different design or location would be appropriate under these approval criteria.
Setbacks - While the application mentions that the proposed tower is located at least 75 feet from
property lines in response to the telecommunication standards elsewhere in the application, the
materials do not sufficiently address this related criterion. At a minimum, the application should
include exact measurements from all adjacent property lines as well as nearby residences, and
better explain the choice for siting the proposed tower and ancillary equipment in context with
this standard.
EC 9.8090(3): The location, design, and related features of the proposal provides a
convenient and functional living, working, shopping or civic environment, and is as
attractive as the nature of the use and its location and setting warrant.
The "as attractive as the nature of the use and its location and setting warrant" requirement is not
addressed. Staff is concerned that this particular stealth design may not respond appropriately to
the setting and recommends that the applicant evaluate alternatives or additional comparative
analysis to better show that the proposed design fits the setting.
EC 9.8090(4): The proposal demonstrates adequate and safe circulation exists...
Instead of just saying "no impact," that applicant must explain the existing conditions and how
access to the equipment will be provided.
EC 9.8090(5): The proposal is designed and sited to minimize impacts to the natural
environment by addressing the following...
The statement does indicate that the property is not on the City's acknowledged Goal 5 inventory.
It just says that the project will have minimal impact on the environment. Describe the on-site
vegetation; confirm that there are no rare plants or species, or other features that require review
under this criterion. Discuss trees on the property as required by this criterion; to the extent that
existing trees may need to be preserved in order to assist with the compatibility of the proposed
design, the applicant needs to address the preservation standards. Staff recommends that the
applicant obtain the services of a licensed arborist or landscape architect to provide an evaluation
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Church (CU 14-3) Page 2 of 3
Attachment A
of the size, species, health and condition of existing trees and recommendations for ensuring
protection over time. The site plans and elevations should also be revised to clearly depict the
size, location and species of the existing trees in relation to the proposed tower.
EC 9.8090(6): The proposal provides adequate public facilities and services including, but
not limited to utilities, streets, and other infrastructure.
The statement assumes that no new services are necessary. The applicant needs to address
whether impervious surfaces be added or replaced; and if so, how stormwater runoff will be
managed in compliance with applicable standards for stormwater management.
EC 9.8090(7): The proposal does not create any significant risk to public health and
safety, including but not limited to soil erosion and flood hazard, or an impediment to
emergency response.
Public health and safety is primarily addressed in the Telecommunication Standards, but this
criterion also talks about soil erosion, flood hazard, and emergency response, which is not
addressed in the written statement.
EC 9.8090(8): The proposal complies with all applicable standards, including but not
limited to...
Many of the standards referenced under this criterion appear to be inapplicable, but the written
statement should respond to each to confirm applicability. For access, confirm the frequency of
vehicle access to the equipment area. For stormwater, identify any added/replaced impervious
surfaces.
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Church (CU 14-3) . Page 3 of 3
Attachment B
Completeness Review of Telecommunications Standards:
Excerpt from City of Eugene Land Use Code, Chapter 9
The application materials for New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Church (CU 14-3) are lacking
sufficient information to evaluate and determine compliance with the applicable
telecommunication standards at Eugene Code (EC) 9.5750. The code standard is provided in
bold with staff concerns identified under each.
9.5750 Telecommunication Devices-Siting Reauirements and Procedures.
(1) Purpose. The provisions of this section are intended to ensure that
telecommunication facilities are located, installed, maintained and removed
in a manner that:
(a) Minimizes the number of transmission towers throughout the
community;
(b) Encourages the collocation of telecommunication facilities;
(c) Encourages the use of existing buildings, light or utility poles or water
towers as opposed to construction of new telecommunication towers;
(d) Recognizes the need of telecommunication providers to build out their
systems over time; and
(e) Ensures that all telecommunication facilities, including towers,
antennas, and ancillary facilities are located and designed to minimize
the visual impact on the immediate surroundings and throughout the
community, and minimize public inconvenience and disruption.
Nothing in this section shall apply to amateur radio antennas, or
facilities used exclusively for the transmission of television and radio
signals.
While purpose statements are not directly applicable as approval standards, it would be helpful
for context to have the applicant respond to these. In particular, staff is still concerned that the
applicant may not have exhausted other collocation alternatives. Page 4 of the applicant's
written statement has minimal discussion and raises questions or makes comments like "due to
zoning ordinances prohibiting the location" as a reason for not considering light and utility
poles. Staff would like to get more information and discuss the applicant's efforts to collocate
in the area before entirely ruling out alternatives. Consistent with the City's telecom ordinance,
collocation is certainly preferable to a new tower when possible.
(6) Application Requirements.
(b) Construction of Transmission Tower. In addition to standard required
application material, an applicant for a transmission tower shall
submit the following information; additional application material is
required, as specified in paragraph (c) below, for applications
requiring a site review or conditional use process:
1. A description of the proposed tower location, design and height.
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 1 of 10
Attachment B
The location is shown on the site plans (Sheet SV1). Elevations are shown (SheetA-3.0), but
distance from grade to lowest branches is missing. Please provide this information. Also,
dimension the adjacent building to provide a clearer determination of scale. Additional
measurements including setbacks from all property lines and homes, and the relationship of the
tower to existing trees on the site should also be provided on the site plans and elevations.
Plan note says "Antennas to be painted green to match monopine." Please provide paint color
samples for the pole and faux branches, and discuss the color choice in context with the
surroundings.
The design is required to reasonably blend in with the surroundings and the photo simulation
"View from Amazon Drive" shows that the tower will be about the same height and shape as
the nearby fir tree. Since that tree appears to be on the same property, staff requests that the
applicant gather actual samples of the branches and bark and compare that to the proposed
tower; also, submit a sample of the tower (as an oversized exhibit), which was provided by
AT&T on another case. Provide as much comparative information as possible, like the height of
that tree compared to the tower and the distance between the two.
The tower seems to really stick out in the photo simulation entitled "Intersection of Amazon
Drive and Fox Hollow Road." The tower sticks out amongst the shorter, deciduous trees along
the street. Is there room to plant more fir trees in that area to create an atmosphere that
softens the bulk and scale of the tower? The arborvitae proposed around the fence enclosing
the ancillary facilities seem to only emphasize the monotony; would another plant mix with a
variety of species help create a better blending effect? The applicant should consider
additional screening that may be needed beyond the perimeter of the tower and equipment,
depending on visual impacts from nearby homes and other strategic locations along the
property lines that would help to buffer the facility.
The photo simulation entitled "View NE from Dillard and Fox Hollow" shows the top of the
tower branches rising above the tree-lined ridge line. Conversely, there's a power pole in the
area that appears to be taller. It may be helpful to put those two features into perspective with
the tower- being a utility. Is there any way to vary the branch alignment to more closely
resemble the tree canopy on the horizon? Again, the application needs to better address the
proposed design in context with surrounding features.
2. The general capacity of the tower in terms of the number and
type of antennas it is designed to accommodate.
The explanation to this standard (page 8 of the applicant's written statement) appears to only
discuss carriers, not the number and type of antennas. Please provide more information about
the full extent of collocation and what those visual impacts might be with the maximum
amount of collocated antennas.
3. Documentation demonstrating compliance with non-ionizing
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 2 of 10
Attachment B
electromagnetic radiation (VIER) emissions standards as set
forth by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Submitted report from Hatfield & Dawson, Consulting Electrical Engineers.
4. A signed agreement; as supplied by the city, stating that the
applicant will allow collocation with other users, provided all
safety, structural, and technological requirements are met. This
agreement shall also state that any future owners or operators
will allow collocation on the tower.
Applicant states that they will sign an agreement if supplied by the City.
5. Documentation that the ancillary facilities will not produce
sound levels in excess of those standards specified in subsection
(7) of this section, or designs showing how the sound is to be
effectively muffled and reduced pursuant to those standards.
The applicant submitted a report prepared by SAA Acoustics. It implies that the greatest sound
generator is from the air-conditioning unit. Are there other devices, like a generator? On
another case, the generator was the greatest sound producer. The noise level provided is 73
dBA, which exceeds the 45 dBA code limitation. The factors for "predicting" noise level
reductions were just the building edge and distance. Even with those factors, the dBA is only
reduced to the maximum allowable. It seems like more sound mitigation is necessary. For
example, how much sound reduction would occur if the equipment were enclosed in a building
or installed underground?
As noted.previously, it is unclear whether the requested underground variance would be
granted without more information to justify the request, particularly related to noise and visual
impacts in a residential area. In any event, it seems critical to have comparative evidence about
the effects of undergrounding. For.example, would undergrounding require other noise
generating equipment like an elevator? This would also need to be measured and addressed in
the event that undergrounding may be required; alternatively, the applicant should consider an
underground vault design that does not require additional sound generating equipment, or
provide additional sound buffering as necessary.
In another recent case (AT&T at Oakway Golf Course, a.k.a. Northgreen Properties v. City of
Eugene the variance for undergrounding ancillary facilities was denied; as such, the applicant
was required to submit a revised noise study to demonstrate compliance without the variance.
Assuming that could happen in this case, please provide noise studies under both scenarios.
That could be definitive evidence about the basis for a variance.
6. A landscape plan drawn to scale showing proposed and existing
landscaping, including type, spacing, size and irrigation methods.
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 3 of 10
Attachment B
The proposed landscaping around the tower is shown, but it does not appear adequate to meet
the screening requirements. The landscape of the surroundings needs better illustration,
particularly if this tree design is intended to blend in with surroundings, which would typically
mean other trees. Is there a more vegetated portion of the site that would be a better location?
7. Plans showing the connection to utilities/right-of-way cuts
required, ownership of utilities and easements required.
Shown
8. Documents demonstrating that necessary easements have been
obtained;
Applicant states that easements will be included in the lease of the property.
9. Plans showing how vehicle access will be provided;
Shown
10. Signature of the property owner(s) on the application form or a
statement from the property owner(s) granting authorization to
proceed with development permit and land use processes;
The property owner has signed the application form.
11. Documents demonstrating that the FAA has reviewed and
approved the proposal, and Oregon Department of Aviation has
reviewed the proposal. Alternatively, when a site review or
conditional use process is required, submit a statement
documenting that notice of the proposal has been submitted to
the FAA and Oregon Department of Aviation. The site review or
conditional use process may proceed and approval may be
granted for the proposal as submitted, subject to FAA approval.
If FAA approval requires any changes to the proposal as initially
approved, then that initial approval shall be void. A new
application will need to be submitted, reviewed and approved
through an additional site review or conditional use process. No
development permit application shall be submitted without
documents demonstrating FAA review and approval and Oregon
Department of Aviation review.
A letter from the Oregon Department of Aviation dated January 24, 2014 confirms that an
aeronautical study resulted in the determination that notice to the FAA is not required and that
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 4 of 10
Attachment B
no marking or lighting are necessary for aviation safety.
(c) Site Review and Conditional Use Permit Applications. In addition to
the application requirements specified in paragraph (b) above,
applications for site review or conditional use permits also shall
include the following information:
1. A visual study containing, at a minimum, a graphic simulation
showing the appearance of the proposed-tower, antennas, and
ancillary facilities from at least 5 points within a 3 mile radius.
Such points shall be chosen by the provider with review and
approval by the planning director to ensure that various
potential views are represented.
The initial visual study provided is insufficient. The photo simulations provided cast serious
doubt about compatibility with the surroundings. The quality is poor, looking more artificial and
even "cartoonish" than an actual, accurate representation. The number of photos and locations
is also deficient. The applicant needs to provide more extensive analysis of the visual impact
from nearby homes and other potential viewpoints in the area. In addition to photo simulations
of the tree design, that applicant should also consider including scenarios for an alternate
stealth design such as a monopole with enclosed antennas. Elevations should also be verified
with balloon testing as well, to provide a more credible photo simulation and analysis.
2. Documentation that alternative sites within a radius of at least
2000 feet have been considered and have been determined to
be technologically unfeasible or unavailable. For site reviews,
alternative sites zoned C-4,1-1,1-2, and 1-3 must be considered.
For conditional use permits, alternative sites zoned PL, C-2, C-3,
C-4,1-1,1-2,1-3 and S-WS must be considered.
Does the table provided on pages 10 and 11 of the applicant's statement include all sites zoned
PL, C-2, or C-2 within 2,000 feet?
3. Evidence demonstrating collocation is impractical on existing tall
buildings, light or utility poles, water towers, existing
transmission towers, and existing tower facility sites for reasons
of structural support capabilities, safety, available space, or
failing to meet service coverage area needs.
The reference to utility pole height "guidelines" is not an absolute barrier. This should be
investigated further.
4. A current overall system plan for the city, showing facilities
presently constructed or approved and future expansion plans.
Provided
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 5 of 10
Attachment B
5. A statement providing the reasons for the location, design and
height of the proposed tower or antennas.
Provided
(7) Standards for Transmission Towers and Antennas. Installation, construction
or modification of all transmission towers and antennas shall comply with
the following standards, unless a variance is obtained pursuant to the
provisions of subsection (9) of this section:
(a) Separation Between Transmission Towers. No transmission tower
may be constructed within 2000 feet of any pre-existing transmission
tower. Tower separation shall be measured by following a straight
line from the portion of the base of the proposed tower which is
closest to the base of any pre-existing tower. For purposes of this
paragraph, a tower shall include any transmission tower for which the
city has issued a development permit, or for which an application has
been filed and not denied. Transmission towers constructed or
approved prior to February 26, 1997 may be modified to
accommodate additional providers consistent with provisions for
collocation in this section.
Applicant confirms no towers within 2,000 feet.
(b) Height Limitation: Transmission tower heights shall be governed by
this section except as provided for below. No transmission tower shall
exceed the maximum heights provided below. In no case shall a
variance be granted from the limitations of subparagraphs (1) through
(4) below.
5. If located within an R-1 zone, the maximum height of a
transmission tower, including antennas, is 75 feet, unless a
variance is granted pursuant to the provisions of subsection (9)
of this section. In no event shall a variance be granted to
construct such a tower in excess of 100 feet.
Proposed height is 75 feet.
(c) Collocation. New transmission towers shall be designed to
accommodate collocation of additional providers:
2. New transmission towers of a height of at least 60 feet and no
more than 80 feet shall be designed to accommodate collocation
of a minimum of 1 additional provider either outright or through
future modification to the tower.
Applicant confirms that the tower can accommodate 2 additional providers. Please provide
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 6 of 10
Attachment B
additional information as noted above about visual impacts with the maximum amount of
collocated antennas and related equipment.
(d) Setback. The following setbacks from adjacent property lines and
adjacent streets shall be required unless a variance is granted
pursuant to the provisions of subsection (9) of this section:
2. If located within an R-1, C-1, or GO zone, the transmission tower
shall be set back from adjacent property lines a minimum
number of feet that is equal to the height of the transmission
tower.
3. In the R-1, PL, C-1 and GO zones, transmission towers shall be
set back from adjacent public street(s) a minimum number of
feet that is equal to the height of the tower. In all other zones,
the setback from adjacent public streets shall be a minimum of
25 feet.
Sheet A-1.0 clearly shows the tower set back 75 feet from the street, but the distance to
property lines needs to be called out. The dashed "tower setback" line doesn't appear to be to
the same scale to the rear property line.
(e) Buffering. In all zones, existing vegetation shall be preserved to the
maximum extent possible. In the C-4,1-1,1-2 and 1-3 zones, no
buffering is required beyond that required by this land use code. In all
other zones, landscaping shall be placed completely around the
transmission tower and ancillary facilities located at ground level
except as required to access the facility. Such landscaping shall consist
of evergreen vegetation with a minimum planted height of 6 feet
placed densely so as to form a screen. Landscaping shall be
compatible with other nearby landscaping and shall be kept healthy
and well maintained.
Arborvitae hedges surround the facility, but as noted above, about compatibility with
surroundings, more and different landscaping may be necessary.
(f) Noise Reduction. In R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, C-1,' and GO and in all other
zones when the adjacent property is zoned for residential use or
occupied by a dwelling, hospital, school, library, or nursing home,
noise generating equipment shall be sound-buffered by means of
baffling, barriers, or other suitable means to reduce sound level
measured at the property line to 45dBa.
The noise analysis doesn't include any other sound-buffering means, like baffling, other than
distance. And at that, it's just at the limit and based on a prediction. This evidence would be
weak under opposing evidence, of which we've seen plenty of from this neighborhood. See
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 7 of 10
Attachment B
previous comments about the need for additional information, analysis, and sound buffering
alternatives.
(g) Status of Location. No permit may be issued for the location of a new
telecommunications facility within an R-1 or C-1 zone unless the lot on
which it is to be placed is vacant or developed with a non-residential
use at the time the permit application is submitted. This restriction
does not apply within other zones.
The R-1 property is developed with a church. Are there any residential uses on the site?
(h) Lighting. No lighting shall be permitted on transmission towers except
that required by the Federal Aviation Administration. No high
intensity white lights may be located on transmission towers in an R-1,
C-1, or PRO zone.
Clarify lighting. So the tower won't be lit, but what about the equipment area?
(i) Color. The transmission tower and attached antennas shall be
unpainted galvanized steel or painted neutral colors or such shades as
are appropriate and compatible with the surrounding environment, as
approved by the city.
This standard was developed for a reason. It would be helpful to provide photo simulations of a
tower that meets this standard to determine whether the "stealth" design is any better.
(j) Viewshed. The transmission tower shall be located down slope from
the top of a ridgeline so that when viewed from any point along the
northern right-of-way line of 18th Avenue, the tower does not
interrupt the profile of the ridgeline or Spencer Butte. In addition, a
transmission tower shall not interrupt the profile of Spencer Butte
when viewed from any location in Amazon Park. Visual impacts to
prominent views of Skinner Butte, Judkins Point, and Gillespie Butte
shall be minimized to the greatest extent possible. Approval for
location of a transmission tower in a prominent view of these Buttes
shall be given only if location of the transmission tower on an
alternative site is not possible as documented by application materials
submitted by the applicant, and the transmission tower is limited in
height to the minimum height necessary to provide the approximate
coverage the tower is intended to provide.
The proposed tower doesn't appear to be within these view sheds.
(k) Display. No signs, striping, graphics or other attention getting devices
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 8 of 10
Attachment B
are permitted on the transmission tower or ancillary facilities except
for warning and safety signage with a surface area of no more than 3
square feet. Such signage shall be affixed to a fence or ancillary
facility and the number of signs is limited to no more than 2.
Applicant states there will be none.
(8) Standards for Ancillary Facilities. All ancillary facilities shall comply with the
standards of subsections (7)(e) and (7)(f) of this section. In addition, all
ancillary facilities within an R-1, PL, C-1, GO, and PRO zone must be located
underground to the maximum extent technology allows, unless a variance is
obtained pursuant to the provisions of subsection (9) of this section. This.
restriction does not apply within other zones.
As noted previously, the ability to obtain a variance is questionable. In response to the standard
above, provide information about the technological feasibility of undergrounding and consider
proposing it an alternative design (along with a noise study that addresses an underground
design) in the event that a variance is denied.
(9) Variance.
(c) The city may grant a variance to the setback and undergrounding
requirements of subsections (7)(d) or (8) upon finding that stealth
design, proposed landscaping, configuration of the site, or the
presence of mature trees obviates the need for compliance.
The requested variance for not undergrounding the ancillary facilities is not sufficiently
supported by the application materials. Please refer to the case involving the Oakway Golf
course, in which the variance was denied (City file numbers PDT 10-2 and CU 11-1).
(10) Removal of Facilities.
(a) All transmission towers and antennas shall be removed by the person
who constructed the facility, by the person who operates the facility,
or by the property owner, within 6 months of the time that the
facilities have ceased being used to transmit, receive or relay voice
and data signals to or from wireless communication devices. The city
manager may grant a 6-month extension where a written request has
been filed, within the initial 6-month period, to reuse the tower or
antennas.
(b) If a transmission tower is located within an R-1, PL, C-1 or GO zone,
the provisions of subparagraph (a) also shall apply to the tower
substructure and all above ground ancillary facilities.
(c) The city may require the posting of an open ended bond before
development permit issuance to insure removal of the transmission
tower, substructure or antennas after the facility no longer is being
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 9 of 10
Attachment B
used.
The written statement did not provide a response to this standard.
(11) Application Review and Fees. The city manager shall retain one or more
consultants to verify the accuracy of statements made in connection with an
application for a building or land use permit for a telecommunications
facility. Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, the city manager
shall require the applicant to pay, as part of the application fees, an amount
sufficient to recover all of the city's costs in retaining the consultant(s).
Third-party review of the application will be required. The applicant will be required to pay an
initial deposit to cover the expense, and additional fees may be required. Staff will provide
more information on the required third-party review when revised application materials are
submitted in response to this completeness review.
Completeness Review: New Cingular Wireless Crossfire Ministries (CU 14-3) Page 10 of 10