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• <br />Planning & Zoning Board <br />December 11, 1996 <br />Page 18 <br />Chair Schaps asked how visible the panels will be. <br />Mr. Nelson responded that unless one looks for them, it is easy to drive by and <br />never notice them. There is nothing to draw the eye to notice them. They will be <br />painted the same color as the water tower. <br />Mr. Gelbmann stated that it would be less intrusive if there were a continuous <br />screen around the central top of the tower with the antenna located within, rather <br />than a ragged profile. <br />Mr. Nelson stated that the antennas will be placed uniformly and symmetrically. <br />There are three groups of three units. A bigger concern is the structural integrity <br />of the rail system and the tower itself. Antennas can be screened, but it is not <br />practical for optimal functioning. <br />Mr. Charles Johnson, Nextel, added that screening has to be done with non - <br />reflective material, which would be fiberglass or canvass. To put it high enough <br />and hold it in place is a lot of structure work and is not practical. <br />Mr. Dunn asked what happens to the next applicant and whether the first <br />applicant for the water tower space established a domain for that lease holder on <br />the tower. <br />Mr. Ahrens stated that space is rented on a first - come - first -serve basis. <br />Mr. Nelson stated that the Nextel operates on a different frequency and can be <br />within a foot of another antenna and still function well. <br />Mr. Dunn asked if the design of the building is compatible with the zoning district. <br />Mr. Wessel stated that staff has reviewed the building plan and is comfortable <br />with what is proposed. He expressed appreciation for Mr. Gelbmann's concern <br />about the industrial park image. What is being presented is a new technology, <br />and the City needs to be diligent in how it is pursued in order to maintain <br />standards that have been established. <br />Mr. Herr asked if other locations are being considered to build a free standing <br />structure. <br />Mr. Charles Johnson stated that there is one on Highway 96, one -half mile west <br />of 1 -35E. He stated that they operate on a lower cellular frequency than the PCS <br />market and can cover a 10 -mile radius as compared to a 3 -mile radius with PCS <br />antennas. <br />Mr. Dunn asked if the shelter will be prefabricated. <br />