Politics & Government
New Cingular Nixes Plan For Montclair Cell Tower: Councilwoman
An example of "good corporate-community relations" took place in the south end of Montclair, a local councilwoman says.
MONTCLAIR, NJ — An example of “good corporate-community relations” just took place in the south end of Montclair, a local councilwoman says.
Earlier this week, 4th Ward Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Renee Baskerville reported that New Cingular Wireless has decided to withdraw their application to put up a 65-foot monopole and six concealed antennas – as well as a generator and other equipment – at a mixed-use building at 310 Orange Road.
“Based on the community voices at the neighborhood meetings, I'm sure the residents living in the area that would have been impacted are relieved to hear this news,” Baskerville said.
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The application was withdrawn without prejudice, according to a letter from New Cingular to Montclair municipal officials.
During a community meeting Baskerville hosted at the Pine Street Firehouse in late January, several residents spoke out against the idea of erecting a cell phone tower in their neighborhood, even though it could have eliminated coverage gaps on Graham Terrace, Wayside Place and Harrison Avenue, Montclair Local reported. (Read the full article)
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The discussion didn’t end after the meeting, and about month later, New Cingular withdrew their application, Baskerville said.
The councilwoman commended the company for listening to the concerns of residents and said it was a case of “good corporate-community relations.”
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The application was due for review by the Montclair Zoning Board of Adjustment in April or May. However, the board faced an uphill battle due to federal regulations, and would have had to have shown “substantial detriment” if they wanted to deny the application, Montclair Local reported.
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