Township Cell Tower Ordinance on Hold Again

Washington Township councilmen put off introducing an ordinance Monday that would set the height of the cell tower proposed next to the police station on the municipal complex site at a maximum of 125 feet.

Residents spoke out about the project at the council meeting Monday night. For the past several meetings those living near the municipal complex have asked council members to consider other locations for the cell tower.

Joanne Anastasi, who has repeatedly addressed the council about the cell tower, said Monday night that she didn't believe officials were going about the project the right way. After reviewing the reports from Cingular, Verizon and T-Mobile, she said the project might not fix the coverage problems in the township and then the companies could try to construct additional towers.

"We have to keep considering all our options," Anastasi said.

Arthur Knox also addressed the council, asking if the township could use a light radio cube instead of a cell tower. The technology, which Councilman Richard Hrbek described as new, is designed for very densely populated areas. Council Vice President Steve Cascio added that light radio cubes also require transmission from a tower so that technology wouldn't be a solution for the coverage issues in the township.

Knox also asked if the township would be responsible for removing the cell tower if it becomes obsolete. Council President Fred Goetz said the telecommunications companies would be responsible.

"At the end of the lease there's a termination clause," Goetz said.

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for April 11. The council has budget meetings scheduled for Thursday, March 31 and Monday, April 4.