The Leelanau Township Planning Commission received a letter from Daniel B. Stowe expressing strong opposition to a proposed communication tower at 11015 N. Kitchen Road. Stowe, a local farmer, raised concerns about the project’s impact on natural beauty, historical significance, and environmental integrity, questioning the necessity of the tower and suggesting alternative solutions.
A three-hour public hearing was held to address a communications tower permit request. Public comments largely supported the tower, emphasizing improved wireless access. Concerns were raised about zoning ordinances, NIMBYism, and stormwater runoff. Supporting documents highlighted recent developments, costs associated with landlines, and compliance with zoning regulations, underscoring the urgent need for reliable cell service.
Numerous comments from residents and community stakeholders express strong support for the proposed cell tower. Proponents emphasize the critical need for improved cell phone service, particularly in areas with “dead zones.” The Leelanau Township Fire Department supports the tower, citing enhanced public safety and improved connectivity as key benefits for residents and visitors.
The purpose of Article 18 is to regulate the establishment of communication towers and antennas in the township, while balancing the public need for advanced telecommunications services. The regulations aim to provide appropriate location and development criteria, minimize adverse effects, maximize use of existing facilities, protect residential areas, and promote public health and safety.
Event Date: 2025-01-30 Summarized with ai model: Disclaimer: AI-generated summaries may contain errors. Please review the source document for accuracy. Internal document reference #:1952
The document outlines the agenda for a regular meeting of the Leelanau Township Planning Commission on Thursday, January 23, 2025. The main agenda item is a public hearing on an application for a Special Land Use Permit for a Kitchen Road Communications Tower by Leelanau County Administration, with public comments limited to 3 minutes per person.
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.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission is holding a regular meeting on Thursday, September 9, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. The agenda includes a discussion on the Kitchen Road Communications Tower, a review of the 2025 meeting schedule, and an update on the Master Plan. Public participation will be encouraged with two comment periods.
The document begins by addressing the acknowledged lack of cellular coverage in Leelanau Township, highlighting the necessity for improved service, especially for emergency services. It traces the history of the issue, emphasizing how the COVID-19 pandemic and a county-sponsored survey in September 2021 further revealed the importance of reliable telecommunications in the township.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission will meet on December 12, 2024, at 6:30 P.M. at the Fire Hall and via Zoom. Key agenda items include a Special Land Use Permit for a telecommunications tower. Public comments are encouraged, with opportunities at the beginning and end of the meeting, limited to three minutes per person.
