Councillors had concerns of their own about a proposed 60-metre telecommunications tower slated for the Eleventh Line in Collingwood that they voiced at the Development and Operations Services Standing Committee on Wednesday night.
While residents had the opportunity to express concerns about the tower at a public meeting back in December and again at the committee meeting this week, different concerns were brought to the forefront by council members.
“I would not support this application, first of all, because it does not meet our protocols,” said Coun. Deb Doherty. “It is in a deferred residential area, notwithstanding the fact that the federal government does not recognize our zoning. That would be my primary concern.”
“In addition, I’m concerned about the height. Is there any possibility that tower could be reduced in height, and better camouflaged?” she asked.
Coun. Kathy Jeffery, who also chaired the meeting, said that council is not the approving authority on the tower, but that the federal government actually has final say.
“I’m not sure total objection will help us in terms of having (the federal government) see what it is we want or would prefer,” said Jeffery.
“If we defeat this, it simply goes to council without a recommendation,” she added.
“I would put in recommendations for height restriction and relocation within the property to minimize the aesthetic impact in the area. I’m prepared to give approval with recommendations,” said Mayor Brian Saunderson.
The public open house took place in December to discuss the application by Shared Network Canada to build a 60-metre tall telecommunications tower on the Eleventh Line in Collingwood, north of Mountain Road.
According to the town’s website, the proposal includes a 15-metre by 15-metre fenced compound area at the base of the tower with equipment cabinets. Wireless and data carriers would be attaching their equipment to the tower to increase voice and data services for the surrounding area.
According to the staff report presented to the committee, the regulation and approval of radiocommunication towers and related facilities falls under federal jurisdiction, as governed by the Radiocommunication Act and related regulations, and is administered by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISEDC). ISEDC (formerly Industry Canada) sets out procedures to be followed by an applicant, which requires them to consult with local municipalities. While the opinion and recommendations of a municipality are to be taken into consideration, and a council resolution stating the municipal position on the submission is sought, the ultimate approval remains with ISEDC.
The Town of Collingwood also has its own telecommunications protocol.
An amendment to add conditions for reduced height, relocation within the property and improved visual camouflage was moved by Mayor Saunderson, but was defeated.
The committee voted unanimously to not support a recommendation to council for the proposed tower location.
The issue will come before council on Feb. 25.
