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Planning & Zoning Board <br />December 10, 1997 <br />Page 14 <br />accommodating the public safety service. In conclusion, Mr. VanLancheau expressed <br />confidence that the community would realize fewer antennas than anticipated. <br />Mr. Johnson requested clarification about replacement. Mr. VanLancheau used the <br />example of a ball park light pole. As the light pole would not support an antenna added <br />on, the pole would be replaced by a taller pole which would offer sufficient height. Fifty <br />percent is a common height addition, but in some cases variances are used to achieve <br />additional height. <br />Mr. Herr asked about a base structure to the antenna structures. Mr. VanLancheau agreed <br />that a base structure is required. <br />Mr. Johnson asked again about a maximum number of antennas. Mr. VanLancheau <br />explained that the total number depends upon the amount of service desired by the <br />community. In order to service every need, there would be more antennas. <br />Mr. Brixius requested sample language for inclusion in a draft ordinance regarding the <br />replacement policy. Mr. VanLancheau offered to provide sample language. <br />Mr. Brixius brought up the concept of rural areas, where a tower might now be <br />appropriate, might not always be rural; and a tower constructed now might not be <br />appropriate in the future. <br />Mr. Herr asked about the City Council's desires. Ms. Wyland indicated that Council does <br />not support maximum service for Lino Lakes. <br />Mr. Johnson asked if there would be demand for tower space in the Lino Lakes area. Mr. <br />Brixius stated that there is interest on the part of U.S. West, and that the City has leased <br />space on its water tower. Ms. Wyland stated that there are many closely following <br />development of this item. <br />Mr. Dunn questioned the need for additional carriers. Mr. VanLancheau explained that <br />one reason is an overall government effort to reduce and ultimately eliminate the current <br />communications infrastructure to be replaced by wireless service. Additionally, more and <br />more consumers are turning to wireless technology. By providing space for more <br />carriers, competition drives prices to consumers down. Mr. VanLancheau agreed that <br />rural areas tend to request more limited service. <br />Mr. Johnson explained that from a planning standpoint it is difficult to identify locations <br />for and numbers of antennas and /or towers that would be needed in Lino Lakes. He <br />suggested that the community may have to enact basic legislation and be sensitive to <br />changes in technology and be quick with needed amendments. Mr. Brixius agreed. <br />• <br />• <br />