Commission reviews telecommunications options today

The Longboat Key Town Commission will review a telecommunications study report and guide staff on how to proceed with its telecommunications code.

The town attorney’s office is recommending the  commission consider amending its zoning code to allow for cellular towers that are taller than 30-feet and to establish a reasonable maximum height for the towers. Without making the changes to its code, the town could legally be viewed as prohibiting towers on the island.

The discussion will be held today at the commission’s 1 p.m. regular workshop, at Town Hall. A telecommunications study that discusses results of cellular signal strength and quality will also be discussed.

Large attendance at the meeting is expected and attorneys representing certain parties that are either for or against a cellular tower on the island have requested at least 10 minutes apiece to discuss the issue. Longbeach Village resident and former commissioner Gene Jaleski has also sent commissioners a PowerPoint presentation titled: “No Island for Cell Towers” for them to review.

Also at the workshop, commissioners will discuss:
• A resolution that updates the town’s 10-year water supply plan for the Southwest Florida Water Management District.
• A proposed 2013 commission meeting schedule.
• Potential uses for a new community center that’s been discussed.
• Making a budget transfer of $40,000for the completion of a replacement Linley Street boat ramp in Longbeach Village.

Check www.yourobserver.com for updates and pick up a copy of Thursday’s Oct. 18 Longboat Observer.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].