Adopt Resolution #15-04-099 and #15-04-100 approving Conditional Use Permit for 199 Foot Private Communications Tower; Case of Connexus Energy

The purpose of this case is to consider a request from Connexus Energy for a Conditional Use Permit to allow a 199 foot communications tower related to their operation.

Connexus Energy is located at 14601 Ramsey Blvd. NW and services several communities within a several mile radius of their headquarters. Connexus Energy desires to locate a monopole communications tower at this location to provide communication to its staff, sub-stations, grid, meters, and other related equipment. Primarily, in order to provide adequate coverage over their entire service area, Connexus Energy has stated that this height of tower is required in order to provide coverage with a single tower. Additionally, the closed landfill does provide some barrier to coverage.

A Public Hearing was held by the Planning Commission on March 5, 2015. Staff attempted to notify all Property Owners within 350 feet of the Subject Property of the Public Hearing via Standard US Mail. A Notification of Public Hearing was published in the Anoka County UnionHerald.

This review is contingent upon approval of City of Ramsey Ordinance #15-07 amending maximum height requirements for certain types of towers.

Connexus Energy has provided technical analysis as to their findings for the need for this communications tower and the chosen site. Other than the height, the request would meet all other minimum standards for Towers found within City Code Section 117-428 in conjunction with performance standards established in the attached Conditional Use Permit.

The Planning Commission reviewed materials compiled by the City regarding communications towers in 2008 as well as information from the Centers of Disease Control. The Planning Commission feels that the proposed tower is safe and free from harmful secondary effects.

The City has received one comment in support of the request and one comment concerned about the request.

Alternatives

Alternative #1. Approve the Conditional Use Permit as presented. The Planning Commission has recommended this alternative.

Alternative #2. Approve the Conditional Use Permit with modifications. Modifications could include location of improvement on the site, adjustment to the height, or modifications in design.

Alternative #3. Table the request for additional information.

Alternative #4. Deny the request.

All costs associated with processing this Application are the responsibility of the Applicant. No City funds are involved in the project.

Staff recommends approval of the request, contingent upon Ordinance #15-07 becoming effective.

Motion to 1) adopt Resolution #15-04-099 adopting Findings of Fact #0948; and 2) adopt Resolution #15-04-100 approving the Conditional Use Permit.