Proposed Cell Tower at Sorrento
By Jo Anne Malpass
TELUS is proposing to construct a 58.0-meter tall self-support tower on a large privately-owned lot at 1030 Dilworth Road, Sorrento.
Information on the Columbia Shuswap Regional District website explains the proposed tower location is directly south of an existing hydro utility corridor that runs through the property. All the equipment necessary to operate the proposed tower facility will reside within a compound located at the base of the tower. The subject property is 79.97 acres in size and is currently zoned AR1-Agriculture.
The Telus proposal says it is for a 55.0 meter tall self-support tower as well as a 3.0-meter tall lightning rod (58.0 meters of total height including the lightning rod). The tower will house numerous panel antennas and multiple dishes in support of a variety of communication technologies.” TELUS’ facility will be connected to the power grid and will also have a back-up power supply.
“The proposed tower location is respectfully setback from adjacent land uses while being centrally located in the area that needs improved wireless service. The tower, if constructed, will provide improved high-speed internet access and wireless service to the Sorrento community.”
Although Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) has exclusive jurisdiction over the placement of wireless telecommunications facilities, it requires the carriers to consult with the applicable local government and the general public regarding new installations. The public consultation process is intended to provide an opportunity to have property owner questions addressed while respecting federal jurisdiction over the installation and operation of telecommunications systems.
TELUS will host a digital public meeting via the Webex application on Thursday, February 23, 5:00-6:00 pm. During the public meeting there will be two presentations, one at 5:00 pm and another at 5:30 pm. Each presentation will be followed by a question and answer period. For details regarding how to join the Webex meeting, please contact Brian Gregg, SitePath Consulting Ltd. at briangregg@sitepathconsulting.com no later than Wednesday, February 22.
Any person may comment by close of business day on March 2, 2023.
