PC 031401 - Laserfiche WebLink

- He advised that the equipment for Sprint and Nextel will be enclosed in modified existing storage units on the site and sound will not be a factor. He reported that this site complies with all FCC guidelines, which govern wireless telecommunication facilities. He noted that both Sprint and Nextel are over capacity with their telecommunications in this area and this facility is urgently needed. He advised that they are in agreement with staffs recommended conditions of approval with the exception of Condition #6, which requires a new irrigation system; Condition #8, which requires the owner of the property to enter into a contract with the City regarding the landscaping, (noting that he does not feel a contract with the property owner is justified in this case; and Condition #10, (noting that it would be exorbitantly expensive to go back and taper the tree a certain way if the Planning Commission does not like it once it is built). Discussion ensued regarding the visual simulations presented to the Planning Commission and the tapering of the foliage at the top of the tree. In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Herman advised that the life span of the foliage is about 10 years. Discussion ensued regarding placing a requirement on the project to have the applicant reexamine the tree and renew the foliage. Commissioner Arkin inquired as to the power frequency of the antenna. Matt Kundert represented Nextel Communications. He commented that on page 6 of the staff report it states that the face of the antennas are approximately 9 feet from the tree trunk, he noted that they are actually 6 feet. He referred to the letter from Thierry Joux which addresses the impacts on reading if the antennas are at a height lower than 50 feet. He noted that to reduce the height would lose the objective that they want to accomplish. r- In response to an inquiry from Chairperson Sullivan, staff advised that the proposal could be peer reviewed. Mr. Herman reported on the PCS operating frequency of the proposed antenna and operating equipment. Commissioner Arkin advised that this is extremely low. Mr. Kundert requested that condition #9 be deleted, as they are unable to switch the location of the antennas. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Maas stated that the difficulty with this proposal is trying to provide a needed service to the community, while addressing the impacts of the visual aspects. Commissioner Kameny concurred with Commissioner Maas, stating that he feels the proposal needs to be peer reviewed. Chairperson Sullivan suggested that staff work with the applicant regarding the issues and bring the proposal back to the Commission. He agreed that there needs to be a peer review on the height of the tree and the location of the antennas. r PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES March 14,2001 Page 13