Township Board: Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 9:00am Special Meeting (Public Comment)

The proposed construction of a 200-foot cell phone tower in Northport, Leelanau Township, has elicited significant opposition from local residents and concerned individuals. Paris Morse, a resident, argues that the project violates the Leelanau Township Master Plan and Zoning Ordinances, which are designed to protect the community’s unique character. Morse points out that the application contains false and misleading information, such as unagreed easements and inaccurate maps, and emphasizes the irreversible impact the tower would have on the area’s scenic views and steep slopes, as outlined in the Master Plan.

Anne Woods shares a personal story of how similar infrastructure negatively affected her family’s dairy farm, leading to a significant drop in milk production due to stray voltage. She fears that the proposed cell tower could similarly harm the Northport community, diminishing property values and disrupting the lives of residents. Woods urges the Planning Commission to deny the tower’s construction to preserve the area’s natural beauty and prevent potential negative impacts on the community.

Emily Robbins, a Northport native, expresses her deep connection to the area and the potential devastation the tower would bring to the cherished landscapes and views that define the region. She highlights the economic impact on property values and the broader community, suggesting that the tower’s construction would fundamentally alter the character of Northport. Robbins advocates for alternative solutions that could maintain the town’s remote and beautiful nature without compromising on modernity.

Thomas Staunton, a frequent visitor to Northport, questions the necessity of the tower, noting the existence of another nearby tower that could be utilized by additional carriers. He suggests exploring alternatives like Starlink’s direct-to-cell service, which could meet connectivity needs without the environmental and aesthetic drawbacks of a new tower. Staunton emphasizes the potential obsolescence of cell towers in the near future and urges a thorough environmental review and consideration of other options before proceeding with the project.

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