Cell Tower Ordinance To Be Reviewed

Sonora, CA — The Tuolumne County cell tower ordinance may be getting rewritten.

The ordinance has been in place for more than 2 years and has been a hot topic of discussion among the community and the Board of Supervisors. At today´s meeting the board voted to consider a broad range of changes to the ordinance, which will be presented by the staff at a later meeting.

Supporters of the changes say the current ordinance is making it very difficult for cell phone companies to do business. George Segarini President/CEO of the Chamber of Commerce believes that it is also a safety issue. CHP Commander Mike Ayala added that it is all about safety, service, and security, which he says directly relates to being able to make calls to help people in an emergency.

Some residents who oppose changing the ordinance argue that the cell towers are an eye sore and will deter tourism. Director of Community Development, Bev Shane says that because of the large workload of County Staff, a new recommendation will not be complete until after January 1st 2006.