The Alton zoning ordinance allows cell towers in all zones of the town in an effort to allow a mature build out of wireless services. Zoning also allows antennas (service facilities) on existing structures, buildings, utility towers, etc. The current applicant did consider but rejected locations such as the Town Hall bell tower.
Alton zoning does restrict antenna height to 10’ above tree line and is almost an exact copy of the zoning in several southern NH towns. The current applicant proposed two very tall towers each allowing several carrier’s antennas as well as “back haul” microwave antennas. They applied to the ZBA for dimensional variances to allow the two tall towers. One in a more remote hard to see area was approved. The 2nd would be near the lake in full view and that variance was not approved by the ZBA. The applicant appealed in Federal court.
The applicant never investigated the possibility of a meeting service with an additional lower tower as the tall tower “vertical real estate” concept is more lucrative.
In my opinion the applicant is simply pouring money into this hoping that in time the Town will fold.
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