Commission approves 199-foot monopole near Highway 15; applicant says visibility is limited

The Mecklenburg County Planning Commission approved a special-exception permit for a 199-foot monopole communications tower proposed on parcel 39988 on the west side of Highway 15.

Anthony Bologna, representing the applicant, told the commission the site is zoned AG and that the monopole would be 195 feet with a 4-foot lightning rod (199 feet total). He said Verizon Wireless would be the anchor tenant and that the installation is similar in height and appearance to the previously discussed Highway 47 tower. Bologna presented photo simulations that showed varying visibility from different vantage points—most photos showed the tower was not visible or barely visible while a few showed small portions of the structure above tree lines.

A commissioner moved to approve the application, noting the plan would not be detrimental to public welfare and would provide improved cellular and internet service in the area. Another commissioner seconded, and the motion carried on a voice vote. The applicant added that the site is in the southern part of the county near the North Carolina–Virginia state line and that the county had reserved a space for potential county collocation on the tower.

The transcript records a voice vote in favor but does not provide a roll-call tally or conditions attached to the approval.