Planning Commission: Planning Commission, Thursday, January 9, 2025 (Public comment/ Correspondence)

**Executive Summary**

**Purpose of the Document**
This document comprises public comments submitted to the Leelanau Township Planning Commission regarding a proposed cell tower on Kitchen Road. The correspondence, dated January 9, 2025, highlights the perspectives of local residents on the necessity and implications of the proposed infrastructure.

**Support for Cell Tower Construction**
In her correspondence, Mary Tonneberger expresses her support for the construction of the cell tower, emphasizing several key reasons. She articulates the primary concern for safety, particularly in enabling residents and visitors to access emergency services more efficiently. The letter mentions that this concern has been well-documented by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) staff, underscoring the critical nature of the tower for public safety. Additionally, Tonneberger points out the financial benefits of the project, noting that the cost of construction will be shared among various parties, thereby alleviating the financial burden on the township’s taxpayers.

**Environmental Considerations and Visual Impact**
Tonneberger acknowledges that environmental concerns are valid but remains optimistic that expert consulting can mitigate any negative impacts from the tower’s establishment. She provides a personal perspective by referencing a similar communications tower constructed by Grand Traverse Band (GTB) near her residence, asserting that its visual effect has been minimal despite its prominence in the landscape. She concludes by remarking on the likely obsolescence of such infrastructure in the future, thus framing the current proposal as a prudent decision for both present and future needs of the community.