18 - Laserfiche WebLink

few steps back than that of the existing tower. She inquired if these were accurate visuals or photo simulations that seem to be minimizing what the tower would look like. Chair Blank agreed and stated that it seems odd that the applicant would not use the same picture in both cases. Commissioner O'Connor noted that all the elements look identical and dimensionally the same except for the tower, which looks narrower in the proposed picture. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Jacob Reeves, T- Mobile, thanked staff for its presentation of the proposal and stated that T- Mobile originally looked back in 2006 to put coverage in the area and acknowledged that they were trying to raise the original design to 11 feet to get coverage. He pointed out that there is an issue with coverage between Stanley Boulevard and two miles in both directions toward the residential area. He indicated that they are here because of the public's need and that the proposed tower can house eight antennas. He added that if they only have two or three antennas at this time, they would need to come back in the future and ask for another site to make up for the capacity issue. Regarding the photo simulations, Mr. Reeves stated that it is the exact same picture and that the same person took all the pictures. He indicated that he understood the Commission's concern and that they have gone back and forth with the plan, re- submitting three or four times. He noted that an 11 -foot tall pillar did not look good, and McDonald's showed them the proposed smaller tower design from another site. Commissioner O'Connor said from a reception standpoint, he does not know of any antenna that is enclosed. He questioned if this would impact the reception. Mr. Reeves said no. He indicated that the material used is fiberglass with stucco to match the building and that the signal goes right through it. Commissioner Narum inquired if this design with a capability for eight antennas would basically take care of T- Mobile's needs in Pleasanton. Mr. Reeves said no. He noted that this site covers only a specific range and that T- Mobile has another site in Pleasanton. He added that they reuse signals so they do not shoot up everywhere and interfere with one another. He noted that many companies are now using 4th generation antennas and that they should be expected to eventually return to the City for more antennas. Commissioner Fox inquired if a warning needs to be posted for employees working in structures that house cell phone towers. Mr. Reeves replied that they do post warnings, as governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). He added that a radio frequency report is also submitted and that their eight antennas are .03 percent of what is allowed by FCC standards. EXCERPTS: PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, September 24, 2008 Page 4 of 10