Bedford County to consider cell phone tower

Each vote could prove crucial tonight when the Bedford County Board of Supervisors considers a proposed cell phone tower near Bowyer’s Loop in Moneta.

Last month the supervisors reviewed a special-use request by AT&T Mobility to construct the 80-foot tower as part of the firm’s overall plan to improve wireless coverage along Virginia 24 and Virginia 122. Supervisors that same night gave the company approval for a similar request, but held off on action for the second proposal because of its controversial nature.

Several neighbors said they didn’t want the tower near their homes and that its visibility from Virginia 122 is an “eyesore.”

Chairman Steve Arrington was absent during the review of the Bowyer’s Loop request. Dale Wheeler, the supervisor who motioned for the delay, said his presence was needed on the seven-member board in case a vote deadlocked 3-3, stalling the company’s plans.

Wheeler said wireless service comes down to a public safety issue in the county, particularly with motorists who need help in case of emergencies.

Mike Pace, who represents AT&T, told supervisors that the firm’s request meets guidelines set forth by the county, despite the public complaints.

Supervisor Chuck Neudorfer said a concern was that if the county refuses the proposal and the firm comes back with a plan for another area where residents have the same complaints, the issue will keep surfacing.

Since the late August public hearing on the matter, the tower’s location was proposed to move 90 feet to an area with a slightly lower elevation.

George Nester, director of community development, said in a memo to supervisors that the tower’s visibility from nearby roads should be reduced with the new location.