Council committee recommends small-cell antenna variation on Rand Road, resident says it will enhance data service

The Administration, Technology and Community Health Committee on May 7 recommended approval of a variation to Chapter 20 of the village code to permit installation of a small-cell antenna on an existing pole in the Rand Road right-of-way (District 4).

Staff said the village recently updated its code to accommodate attachments to existing poles rather than requiring new monopoles and recommended approval; the requested variation allows the antenna to sit higher because of the existing pole height. Resident Carrie Lindenberg testified the installation would "enhance data services both to the North Retail District and, to the South of Rand Road in the multi family housing and at the high school." Committee members asked technical clarifying questions about the size and visibility of the antenna, and staff confirmed compliance with other code provisions. The item was placed on the consent agenda.