Discussions on proposed new cell towers dominated the Sedgwick County Commission meeting Wednesday morning, and one tower was denied while another was approved.
Commissioners voted unanimously to deny a project for a cell tower to be installed near Colwich. The tower was proposed for a site near 53rd Street North and 167th Street West. Several nearby residents told commissioners the 120-foot tower would have a negative visual impact on the area and it would affect property values. Commissioner Jim Howell said the tower was out of character for the neighborhood. The Colwich Planning Commission had recommended denial, while the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission had recommended approval with conditions. Developers said the tower was needed to fill gaps in cell coverage.
Developers also asked for a conditional use for a 140-foot tower near 31st Street South and Maize Road. There were no protest petitions, but one resident spoke to the commission and said the tower would have a negative affect on his home 500 feet away. Commissioner Sarah Lopez said felt the tower would be inconsistent with the single family zoning of the property where it would be located. Commissioner Jim Howell felt there were no concerns with land use or property values, and he moved to approve the permit, going along with a 12-0 vote by the Metropolitan Area Planning Commission. Commissioners voted 3-2 with Lopez and Commissioner David Dennis voting no.
