CitySSMConcerned citizens had the opportunity on Wednesday night to learn more about a draft telecommunication tower policy. In particular, what it will mean for the construction of any new telecommunication towers related to cellular service in Sault Ste. Marie. Last night’s information session at City Hall comes as some residents in the east end don’t want a cell tower built in their neighbourhood because of concerns over asethetics and declining property values that may result. City Planner Peter Tonazzo says there is a request for towers aimed at meeting consumer demand for technology…

The neighbourhood that isn’t in favour a tower being constructed is the Dacey Road and River Road area. It is one of a number of dead zones in the city, including the area of Second Line West, west of Korah Road. Tonazzo adds other companies besides Bell will likely be looking in those same areas, with a focus on ‘co-location’. Right now, the draft consists of requirements for complete applications and public notice. It also highlights design and location criteria. At this time, cell towers can not be built within 120 metres of a residential area, unless the proponent demonstrates that there is no other alternative. The timeline from notification to the start of construction would be three months. Tonazzo says the public has already been asking for a couple of changes to the draft…

Residents would be notified by mail of any planned construction of cell towers. There are no other information sessions planned regarding this final issue and a final draft is scheduled to be presented at the December 7th Council meeting. The policy would establish a standardized application, consultation and review process to be followed when siting new telecommunications tower facilities in the city. Feedback is not only being collected from the public, but Tonazzo says the various telecommunication companies are getting their say on the matter as well…

The draft policy can be found online: www.saultstemarie.ca/telecommunications