Durham, North Carolina Development News

Board Approves Wireless Tower Variances and Special Use Permit with Conditions

The Board of Adjustment heard testimony and deliberated on three variance requests and one minor special use permit application related to a proposed wireless communication facility. After extensive discussion, the board voted to approve all three variances (height, structure type, and balloon test) and the minor special use permit, subject to several conditions. These conditions include requirements for removal of the existing water tower within three years of the new tower's occupancy, applicant's collaboration with staff on additional photo visualizations for depicting tower height, color, and location, and adherence to standard permitting and engineering review processes. The approval process involved significant debate among board members regarding the necessity of the variances, the applicant's hardship, the impact on surrounding properties, and the feasibility of alternative solutions. Public input was also considered, particularly concerning visual impact and property values.