Kent cell tower application goes to Siting Council

KENT — Plans to build a new cell tower in town are moving forward.

Homeland Towers, LLC and New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC — also known as AT&T — have submitted an application to the Connecticut Siting Council to construct a cell tower at one of two proposed locations in Kent, according to a town announcement Wednesday.

The applicants are looking to

The need for improved wireless coverage and the preservation of the town’s natural, rural aesthetic were two prevalent concerns raised by residents at a December public hearing on the proposal.

build a 150- to 175-foot cell tower at 93 Richards Road or the area of 15-38 Bald Hill Road.

The 1.99-acre Bald Hill Road and 6.82-acre Richards Road properties were selected as candidate sites based on feasibility, according to a technical report from AT&T and Homeland.

The need for improved wireless coverage and the preservation of the town’s natural, rural aesthetic were two prevalent concerns raised by residents at a December public hearing on the proposal.

Documents relating to Homeland and AT&T’s application will be posted on the Siting Council’s website, and the town plans to post relevant information at townofkentct.org. The docket number for the application is No. 488.

The town was granted “party status” in the Siting Council’s proceedings, requiring the town to respond to pre-hearing questions, submit to cross-examination and provide filings to the council, the applicant and any party or intervenor of the proceeding.

After reviewing Homeland and AT&T’s Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need, the Connecticut Siting Council will schedule a hearing in Kent, Lucia Chiocchio, an attorney representing Homeland and AT&T, said back in December.