Board grants full‑zone variance for cell tower at 6677 Tempe Boulevard

The Gardner City Zoning Board of Appeals approved a full‑zone variance for a proposed multi‑carrier telecommunications tower at 6677 Tempe Boulevard (case 2026‑06‑01; Parcel ID R12‑16‑1).

Mahood, the applicant’s representative, reiterated engineering testimony and manufacturer evidence that towers are designed to "fall upon themselves" and said failure was an unlikely event. She told the board the primary hardship was finding a willing landowner and an existing parcel with a completely clear 180‑foot fall zone; she said utilities and easements on alternative sites eliminated other locations. "When we reviewed their property, we specifically tried to find areas that would meet the criteria for the town, but the fall zone radius that the town requires is significant," Mahood said.

Board members asked whether Walmart would restrict parking in the fall‑zone area; Mahood said Walmart was unwilling to remove parking. One member, recounting a site visit, called that rear parking "in name only" and questioned how often the area was actually used by shoppers.

A committee member moved to grant the full‑zone variance, a second was recorded, the chair called for a vote and the board declared the motion granted. The transcript records at least two members saying 'Aye' and a statement that the motion was granted; it does not contain a full roll‑call tally. The board’s decision will be memorialized in a written decision to be filed with the City Clerk and is subject to the standard appeal period referenced under chapter 48 of the zoning act.

The applicant emphasized the asserted public benefit of improved cellular coverage from AT&T and potentially other carriers. The board did not receive public comment on this item during the hearing.