This is slightly off topic for tower talk, but since I've been giving regular
updates over the last year on discussions I've been having with my township
about their 30' tower height restriction, I thought I'd let everyone in on
the conclusion.
Last night the zoning board gave approval to a special exception for me to
have a 50' tower. This came after the township Board of Supervisors admitted
their zoning laws were not in compliance with PRB-1 and would have to be
revised. (They also waived the $750 special exception permit filing fee).
The zoning board attorney told members of the zoning board that PRB-1
requires them to make 'reasonable accommodation' for amateur towers. The
most difficult part for the board to understand was that they had no
regulatory power over RFI.
During the hearing I educated them on the role of amateur communications in
fostering good will, and its position within FEMA as part of ARES. One
member of the board, who was also the township EM officer, said that, in the
event of an emergency, he would definitely use my services, and could even
install equipment on my tower if the township's tower was damaged.
It was a satisfactory conclusion to a long, drawn out process. The key
element in success was presenting the legal arguments to the attorneys
representing the township. They, in turn, convinced the board members that
PRB-1 really does mean what it says.
Regards
Bob Puharic
_______________________________________________
See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather
Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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