Planning commission recommends land exchange with Title Networks to relocate proposed tower after public opposition

The Petersburg Borough Planning and Zoning Commission on Jan. 1 voted to recommend that the borough assembly pursue a land exchange with Title Networks for the Rory Road property so a planned communications tower could be relocated to a lower-impact site.

The item drew lengthy public comment. Residents and business owners raised objections to proposed tower locations near Pappke's Landing and the fire hall, citing concerns about property values, aesthetics and long-term health effects; several speakers asked for larger setbacks (1,500–3,000 feet), better site selection, and access to the provider’s coverage maps. Becky Knight urged the commission to reject the minor-subdivision application tied to a proposed tower and asked that tower locations be kept at least 3,000 feet from existing structures such as homes and hospitals. Greg Browning, Tom Kowalski, Judy Omer, John Marcus and Dave Beebe each spoke in opposition or urged alternatives and additional disclosure.

Commissioners debated ownership and management of potential alternative parcels, whether state-owned or borough-managed lands could be used, and how grant rules affect leasing vs purchase. Chair and other commissioners proposed and approved amendments removing a clause that named a specific borough parcel (e.g., the shooting range) and removing the words "publicly owned" so the recommendation remained broader.

After amendments, the commission approved the recommendation by roll call. The recommendation directs the assembly to pursue an exchange or other approaches to secure a lower-impact site for the planned tower; any final disposition will be subject to assembly review and legal and title considerations.