Proposed 180 foot Cell Phone Tower in La Veta

"Safety vs. silence in wilderness"

2009-02-02T16:29:00.000-08:00

An article in the Denver post about own town's struggle:

http://www.denverpost.com/opinion/ci_11586363

Conclusion

2009-01-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's taken a while to get back here. The conclusion on the cell phone tower matter is ....

THE 180' CELL PHONE TOWER APPLICATION WAS DENIED

Congratulations and many thanks to everyone who wrote letters, attended meetings, contributed etc. The primary reason for the P&Z and Commissioners decision to deny was in fact the public outcry against it. Hurray!!!

I returned from a trip to India (Trivandrum glutted with cell towers ironically) at the end of October to find that the P&Z had after all --- after the Commnet agreement was signed with the town of La Veta and then approved by the County --- and after duly inviting the tower applicant to the meeting --- met and decided to recommend that the Commissioners deny the tower application. The commissioners then met and denied the tower application. Thank you to these folks for listening and following the process as is their job.

I'll leave this blog up for a little while longer and then retire it. Who cares to look at this webpage now when we still, gratefully, have beautiful, pure mountain vistas to gaze at?

Latest Updates

2008-08-19T23:10:00.001-07:00

10/14> The issue of the cell tower was not addressed at today's meeting of the Planning and Zoning Commission, except to put it back on the table for the next meeting. They stated that not being on the agenda this week, they could not address the issue with a recommendation. The issue is now on the agenda of the P&Z for 1: 30, October 28, and the County Commissioners are scheduled to address it the next day at 10:00 AM. It's important to attend the 10/28 meeting, but EXTRA IMPORTANT to be at the meeting at 10:00 the next morning.

10/7> The La Veta Town Board voted to enter into a five-year lease with Commnet Communications, bringing $750 per month and improved cell phone service to the town.

9/25>

At the 9/23 P&Z meeting, the Commnet proposal (0843) was approved by the P&Z. The Subcarrier Communications application (0831) was tabled.

Details on 0831 discussion: The P&Z presented to Mickey Villella that they had received over 200 letters from the public in opposition to the tower that could not be ignored. Villella then asked if any of them contained anything "besides the aesthetic issue". Vizanni's response was (paraphrased) "No, not really... except some debatable language from the Land Use Guide." (He must have missed my letter, and many of the other, carefully thought out and written, letters I have read.) The need to heal the huge rift in the community caused by the 'tactics of the opposition' was the primary reason given for tabling the tower. Villella then responded (later confirmed largely inaccurately) to some questions from the audience. Villella was then told by Andreatta that he had been very patient. The overall slant and tone of the conversation was upsetting to a few of us in the audience. The tower was nevertheless, with regrets and apologies, soflty tabled.

At the 9/24 County Commissioners meeting, the Comment proposal was approved. The Subcarrier Communications application was not voted on, because it was tabled by the P&Z the day before. The decision to table it by the P&Z was explained by John Galusha to the County Commissioners as follows: The decision on the application was tabled until such time as the Commnet contract with the Town of La Veta for antennas on the water tank is solidified AND if the town of La Veta enters into an agreement with Commnet to provide cell service, then the 180 foot tower at the proposed location will NOT be necessary. An estimated 40 or so citizens were in attendance at this 9/24 meeting and witnessed this.

Further discussion at the 9/24 meeting: Galusha informed that on 9/23 the P&Z suggested that the Subcarrier applicant look at another location, such as one on County Road 450, although the applicant may run into some opposition there as well, and that the P&Z seem to have agreed that the Master Plan for the county to be created in 2009 should include a communications plan. A request was made by a citizen for a moratorium on new cell tower applications until the communications plan is done. A forum for community input into the communications plan was also suggested.

Conclusion/Discussion: At this point, the P&Z has stated they will reject the 180' tower application if the Commnet contract is signed with La Veta. This is the first step and must occur. Any new attempt by the same applicant would then require a new application. In order to avoid a cycle of more frustrating mis-guided attempts and exausting oppositions, a moratorium on more towers until the 2009 communications plan is in place should occur. It is not be possible for ANY tower - no matter how high - to cover the entire county. Places like Bear Lake are hard to cover - massive tower or not - certainly no 180' tower at La Veta Cty Rd 360 would reach to Bear Lake above Cuchara. The P&Z should not be mislead into thinking that a tall tower is the answer to all the injuries in the county.

The communications plan planning process should hear from the public and assess:

Where in the county do we need cell service now?
Where is our protected view shed where we don't want ugly communications towers?

9/17> Video from 9/10 rally courtesy of Barbara Jabaily and Mary Jo Mauro of DreamTellerVideo.com:

9/13> Timeline:

On 9/19 - the deadline for public input to the P&Z and County Commissioners. Letters received at the courthouse by this date will be read.
On 9/23 - the P&Z will meet and receive the advice of John Galusha, County Administrator, on the tower issue. In the same meeting, they will decide on the P&Z recommendation to the County Commissioners.
On 9/24 - the County Commissioners will meet and will hear the P&Z recommendation and decide whether to vote on the 180 foot cell tower application then, or postpone the vote.
See "What You Can Do" below for more details.

9/13> Recent developments:

The Town Board of La Veta has sent a letter to the County in opposition to the proposed tower (letter below).
Over 40 people spontaneously protested the tower and picketed in downtown La Veta on Saturday 8/6.
The Town Board of La Veta met with the County Commissioners and discussed the Alltel and Commnet proposals that are now on the table. According to one board member, at this point, the town is 90-99% likely to pass these alternative solutions.
About 80 people, including some P&Z commissioners, attended the Public Rally at Ricky Tims this Wednesday.
More than 40 businesses in town have signed as being opposed to this tower. See "What You Can Do", on how you can sign.

9/7> Check out Larry Hill's web site of beautiful photos of La Veta: http://www.pbase.com/fletcher_hill/la_veta
(thank you, Larry, this is why we care...)
His letter to the commissioners is also posted at the bottom of this page, showing how many people around the world pay attention to the beauty and uniqueness of this area.

9/2> Commnet Wireless presented a proposal at the La Veta Town board meeting for 6 flush mount antennas on the sides of the 2nd town water tank. (Alltel is applying for a panel around the 1st). This would provide service for AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile customers, as well as other international carriers. The antennas would be painted to match the tanks. A visual simulation was presented. There would be 2 antennas pointing towards Cuchara, 2 towards La Veta Pass and 2 towards HWY 12 and 160 intersection. They would use the same contract with the town as is established by Alltel. Commnet stated that these will provide coverage for all and will be the best solution. Their goal would be to adjust/remedy Cuchara as needed to make Hwy 12 coverage between La Veta and Cuchara seamless. The motion to enter contract negotiations via the town attorney (like the Alltel contract) was made because it could represent up to $18,000 in revenue to the town. It was passed unanimously.

9/2> At the same town meeting, a request was made by a La Veta citizen for permission to fly a large red balloon to the height of the proposed Subcarrier Communications tower on the town lakes property, which is adjacent to the proposed site, for the purpose of allowing people a visual reference of the tower height. The request was granted for the duration of Sept 3 - Oct 2 unanimously with the stipulation that the balloon be monitored onsite at all times while in flight.

8/26> The P&Z decided in the 8/26 meeting to not hold a Public Hearing on this tower. There will be a rally to oppose the cell tower - "Service, YES! Tower, NO!" - September 10, 7pm at Ricky Tims Quilt Gallery. All are welcome.

Come see a slide show of visual simulation of the tower!
Come hear much more about the tower!
Come eat, drink, and listen to music by Ken Saydak!
Come help!

8/19> Due to the applicant's failure to notify all adjacent property owners, the Public Hearing 8/19 has been postponed. The P&Z will decide on rescheduling the Public Hearing at their next regular meeting, which is August 26 at 2pm.

Is this the Best Solution?

2008-08-05T20:31:00.001-07:00

Accurate depiction of the proposed new 180' monopole as seen from a field near the La Veta Cemetary.

Accurate depiction of the proposed new 180' monopole as seen overlooking the valley and mountains from W. Francisco St.

Huerfano Land Use Guide:

"Above ground telecommunications facilities, particularly towers, antennas and related commercial communications fixtures shall be grouped or clustered and wherever feasible located east of Interstate Highway I-25 and north of Highway 10. Under no circumstances shall such facilities be located within a SCO Scenic Conservation Overlay District or location that obstructs or infringes on ridge line views or other local scenic features."

"Scenic conservation corridors are areas adjacent to and extending beyond state or federal highways in Huerfano county and areas of otherwise special scenic interest that offer mountain, canyon, plains and mountain-plains vistas of uncommon natural beauty. The scenic vistas visible from these corridors include high peaks, subalpine parks, and meadowlands, igneous rock formations and transitional foothills. The purpose of the establishment of these corridors does not preclude development thereon. But it requires that such development be sited, constructed and finished in a manner that is compatible with, in harmony with, and does not intrude upon the existing vistas. The designated scenic corridors include: ...

03. The area east of Highway 12 between the highway's first crossing of the Cucharas River south of La Veta and the summit of Cucharas Pass."

Information on the Tower

2008-08-05T01:39:00.000-07:00

Overview :

Subcarrier Communications (Old Bridge, NJ) via local representative Mickey Villella is seeking a Conditional use Permit from Huerfano Co. for a 180 foot cell phone tower, unlit monopole (no guy wires), just east of the town water tanks on land owned by Charles R. Briggs. The location is not within the municipality of La Veta. Zoning is agricultural.

The proposed 180' mono pole cell phone tower site is adjacent to County Road 360 (Birch Street) on the right side of the road as one drives from town, at the elbow of the last right-turn in the road immediately before the straightaway that goes past the town/fishing lakes. It abuts the barbed-wire divider between the town property to the South and the private property to the North.

It is a proposed 80'x90' fenced compound with 4" of concrete/stone throughout, and up to 4 25'x15' lease areas and equipment shelters. The 180' monopole would have an 8' lightening rod, total = 188'. The Site Plan states that upon approval of CUP, the site will be built out with an approximate completion time of 2 months.

During a meeting with the Huerfano Co. Planning and Zoning Commission on 7/22, the applicant for the tower indicated that they were in a hurry and asked for an up or down vote at that time. Federal subsidies given for cell phone towers in rural locations in 2007 equaled $1.12 billion. The Federal Communications Commission recently voted to cap the subsidy program. It is unknown if this is the reason for applicant being in a hurry.

Construction of new towers is unlikely in 5-7 years and they’d have up to 10 years to take it down, if the company is still in business. There is the question of who will take it down if company files bankruptcy.

What does the County Land Use Guide Say?

According to the Huerfano Land Use Guide, constuction of a tower at the proposed location is not compliant with the permitted uses of agricultural zoning by right. Understanding this, the applicant is seeking a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) from the County. When a CUP is applied for, the proposed conditional use needs to be consistent with the Land Use Guide. The following language from Section 2.11.05 in the guide indicates that it is not:

"Above ground telecommunications facilities, particularly towers, antennas and related commercial communications fixtures shall be grouped or clustered and wherever feasible located east of Interstate Highway I-25 and north of Highway 10. Under no circumstances shall such facilities be located within a SCO Scenic Conservation Overlay District or location that obstructs or infringes on ridge line views or other local scenic features."

In addition, page 43 of the Land Use Guide describes the location of the proposed cell tower as being within a Scenic Conservation Overlay district:

"Scenic Conservation Corridors and Sites

Scenic conservation corridors are areas adjacent to and extending beyond state or federal highways in Huerfano county and areas of otherwise special scenic interest that offer mountain, canyon, plains and mountain-plains vistas of uncommon natural beauty. The scenic vistas visible from these corridors include high peaks, subalpine parks, and meadowlands, igneous rock formations and transitional foothills. The purpose of the establishment of these corridors does not preclude development thereon. But it requires that such development be sited, constructed and finished in a manner that is compatible with, in harmony with, and does not intrude upon the existing vistas. The designated scenic corridors include:

01. To the north and south of US Highway 160 between its junction with Sand Creek Arroyo west of Walsenburg and the summit of North La Veta Pass.

02. {omitted, does not apply}

03. The area east of Highway 12 bewteen the highway's first crossing of the Cucharas River south of La Veta and the summit of Cucharas Pass.

04. {omitted, does not apply}

05. {omitted, does not apply}

06. {omitted, does not apply}

07. {omitted, does not apply}

08. {omitted, does not apply}

09. All other portions of the designated Highway of Legends Scenic and Historic Byway not otherwise listed above."

The Emergency Communications Question

2008-08-05T01:21:00.002-07:00

To be completed.

Alternative Solutions

2008-08-05T01:21:00.001-07:00

1. ALLTEL - PANEL AROUND WATER TOWERS: The town of La Veta is currently considering a proposal from Alltel/Verizon for a cell phone panel on one of the water tanks. This panel will not extend above the height of the tank and La Veta would collect rent estimated to be between $10,000.00 – $20,000.00 annually. This issue was on the agenda for the town meeting 7:00 PM.. August 5. The board agreed to move forward and the town attorney is contacting Alltel.

2. COMMNET WIRELESS:

Mike Moore, owner of River's Edge B&B, allowed Commnet Wireless (http://www.commnetwireless.com/ Castle Rock, CO 80109 Office: (720) 733 8049) to install a small 6 foot test antenna on top of his building in Cuchara. It handles the immediate area that it can be seen from, for example, down to the Yellow Pines Ranch. It is only 6 feet tall. Small towers are sometimes also installed successfully on other existing structures/highpoints, such as football field lights, or even telephone poles.

As of 9/2, the town of La Veta is currently considering a proposal from Commnet Wireless for 6 flush mount antennas on the sides of the 2nd town water tank. This would provide service for AT&T, Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile customers, as well as hundreds of international carriers. The antennas would be painted to match the tanks. A visual simulation was presented. There would be 2 antennas pointing towards Cuchara, 2 towards La Veta Pass and 2 towards HWY 12 and 160 intersection. Commnet stated that these will provide coverage for all and will be the best solution. Their goal would be to adjust/remedy Cuchara as needed to make Hwy 12 coverage between La Veta and Cuchara 'seamless'. The motion to enter contract negotiations via the town attorney (like the Alltel contract) was made because it could represent $18,000 in revenue to the town. It was passed unanimously.

With so many company's available and competiting to provide service, the town can outline it's desired requirements in advance: e.g. coverage throughout the town and over what area, no destruction of view shed, revenue for the town, option for coverage up to Cuchara. That way it would be known in advance what the benefits and impact would be. Individuals and/or towns make money for installing cell phone towers and have the final say on whether the company will be allowed to. The town of La Veta can have great cell phone service on its terms.

The people of the area apparently increasingly need a commitment from the town to take these steps to engage with a company for a wireless solution on their terms, either with Commnet or with another. In the meantime, we require our commissioners and representatives to say "No" to the wrong solutions and not let them go through.

I know a citizen in high place (living in La Veta and having a view clear to Hwy 160) who is willing to allow the same installation to occur on the roof of their own home! Perhaps this is all we need. In our mountainous/ridgy area, even a 180' tall tower located at the town lakes will not provide line-of-site to Cuchara. It is not higher than the dike walls and mountains. Smaller towers in more strategically selected locations could. This town does not need to be in the position of making high-risk "yes" or "no" reactive decisions; there are communications companies knocking at the door for a chance to serve and pay us for doing it.

3. On top of one of the EXISTING poles along HWY 160 that are North of La Veta and clearly overlooking the town.

4. Tower on Sheep Mtn.

5. Possible small tower near the fire repeater on the mesa

6. Possible small tower near the police repeater on La Veta Pass

7. Any number of open places north of 160, which are higher... Maybe the old truckstop, but a low tower.

Letter from the Town Board of La Veta to the County

September 1, 2008

Huerfano County Commissioners
Huerfano County Courthouse
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, Colorado 81066

To: Commissioners Cain, Bobian, and King:

On August 19, the La Veta Board of Trustees unanimously voted to oppose construction of a 180’ monopole cell tower, as proposed by Sub-Carrier Communications, to Huerfano County, in General Land Development Application Form file number 08-31. This includes an “Application for Conditional Use Permit.” This objection deserves serious consideration by the Commissioners due to the proposed tower’s proximity to town and town property, its impact on views to and from the town, and the acknowledgement within the Huerfano County Land Development Guide that land management and use decisions are a shared responsibility among the county and municipal governments.(2.10.11).

On August 11, 2008, the Town Board held a public meeting on the proposed cell tower where the opponents outnumbered the supporters 10 to 1. The people in attendance were extremely concerned over the prospect of losing their pristine view, felt imposed upon by a private developer, and did not feel the “benefit” of potentially improved cell service outweighed the cost of living with the blight of the tower. Several made the point of encouraging the Town Board to continue to work on a lease agreement with the company who has a proposal before the Town to install flat panel antennas on the town water tank. Since that meeting the town, has received an additional proposal for a second installation on the second water tank. The two projects represent all major cell service providers, and the representatives for those companies state these installations will cover La Veta and a significant portion of the valley.

The La Veta Town Board objects to the tower because of the adverse impact it will have on the views throughout the Cuchara Valley, and it’s violation of the Huerfano County Land Development Guide(HCLDG). The HCLDG was officially adopted by the Board of County Commissioners in July of 1999 and states that it’s implementation would “contribute to the continuation of the lifestyles, natural beauty and opportunities that make Huerfano County a unique place to live, work, and recreate. We ask you to give careful consideration to the language of the guide, especially the Criteria for Action on a Conditional Use Application, and again stress the overwhelming negative impact this tower would have on La Veta. Denial of this tower will not condemn the residents of the Valley to lack of coverage. There is currently widespread coverage available and numerous current technologies that could offer coverage in the current “dead zones.” The proposed 180’ tower is not an adequate addition to the current level of service, but wholly detrimental to that which is a very large part of what residents of this valley cherish, our gorgeous, unencumbered views.

Below are citations from the HCLDG which are most relevant to this issue.

Section 1.05, Purpose, reads “The purpose of this Guide is to provide an integrated, comprehensive plan and land use code...” and continues with a list that includes:
6. fostering the emergence of balanced, orderly patterns of growth
9. preserving areas of historical, visual, and archeological significance
13. otherwise giving due consideration to and promoting the provisions contained in Section II (the Comprehensive Plan) of this guide.

Section 2.08, County Goals and Objectives reads “The goals and objectives of Huerfano County listed below have been adopted to provide a general framework for the use and application of this Guide and for the making of the recommendations and decisions described within the various sections of the Guide. The goals and objectives of Huerfano County shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:...
2. Resource Conservation and Development: Preserve the scenic vistas, unique natural areas and other visually important sites within Huerfano County.

Section 2.11.05 Modernized Telecommunications Infrastructure reads: Above ground telecommunications facilities, particularly towers, antennas and related commercial communications fixtures shall be grouped or clustered and wherever feasible located east of Interstate Highway I-25 and north of Highway 10. Under no circumstances shall such facilities be located within a SCO, Scenic Conservation Overlay District, or location that obstructs or infringes on ridge line views or other local scenic features.

Section 2..12.09 Policies, reads: ...the following goal, objectives and policies apply specifically to the Cucharas-La Veta planning subarea corridor:
1. Goals and Objectives
01. To preserve and protect the visual appearance of the entire Corridor and especially the Colorado Highway 12 portion of the Highway of Legends Scenic and Historic Byway.
2. Policies
05. It is a policy of the County to protect from visual obstruction, and esthetic(sic) intrusion, the scenic values of the Corridor. Consequently, development in the planning area shall be sited, constructed and finished in a manner that will cause the minimum possible disruption of the area’s scenic value with special emphasis on protecting the areas adjacent to the designated Highway of Legends Scenic and Historic Byway.
08. It is a policy of the County to plan and otherwise work cooperatively with organizations, associations and government units in the Corridor for the implementation of this sub-plan

Section 2.12.10, Generalized Development Plan reads: This generalized development plan for the territory within the Cucharas-La Veta Corridor is intended to provide a conceptual framework for the future growth of the area. the features of this plan include:
7. Prevention of scattered development along the bottom lands of the Cucharas River or on visually obtrusive ridge-line sites

Future development was addressed in the HCLDG in section 2.12.11-Future Planning Needs in the Cuchara-La Veta Sub-area Corridor, which describes an intergovernmental “free standing development” plan which would address:
4. Acceptable measures for the protection of the visual appearance and critical wildlife habitat of various portions of the Corridor.
5. Infrastructure expansion and upgrades and service delivery needs required to safely and effectively support publicly acceptable levels of development throughout the Corridor.

Economic Development Issues, Opportunities and Problems were addressed in Section 2.13.03 and noted that: “ Huerfano County does not lack development opportunities resulting from it geography, geology, and other characteristics. These opportunities and advantages include:
5. Underutilized areas of great scenic beauty with the potential for an expanded local tourist industry based on passive and active recreational pursuits in these areas.”

The goals and objectives were laid out in Section 2.13.04 and read: The economic development and capital improvement goals and objectives of Huerfano County shall include, but not necessarily be limited to the following:
01. To convert undeveloped land to residential, commercial, recreational and industrial uses in an orderly, rational manner, consistent with the other goals and objectives contained within this Comprehensive Plan and especially those contained within Section 2.10.
02. To aid in the development of the County’s natural resource base for the benefit of present and future residents, except when such development would conflict with other provisions of this Guide.
2. Policies
01. It is a policy of Huerfano County to promote development of the County’s natural resources for the benefit of present and future generations, except where such development, even with appropriate mitigating measures, would conflict with other provisions of this Guide.

The HCLDG contains section 3.06.03, Criteria for Action on a Conditional Use Application, which states the Commissioners will approve or disapprove applications based in general upon the provisions of the Guide and specifically on the following:
1. The proposed conditional use conform to the requirements and provisions of this zoning regulation.
2. That the proposed conditional use is consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of Huerfano County, as contained in Section ll of the Guide and specifically with reference to the provisions contained in Sections 2.08, 2.09,2.10, ...subsections 2.12.09, 2.12.10, ...
3. That the proposed conditional use is consistent with, and in harmony, with neighboring land uses and future land uses in the area.
6. That the proposed conditional use not unnecessarily scar the land on which such use would be located and that the proposed use provide all measures necessary to mitigate negative impacts upon....scenic views...

Sincerely yours,

Slideshow/Study: How Will This New Tower Really Appear?

2008-08-05T01:19:00.000-07:00

"Postcards from La Veta" created by Ricky Tims. Not meant to be 100% accurate, but as it turns out, actually pretty darn close!!!

The Question:

We wanted to know how this cell phone tower was actually going to look. Would it go 1/2 way up the mountain? 3/4 of the way? So, we set about to figure this out precisely, to show it accurately in photos, and to share this info with others. It turns out the answer was that it depends on where you are standing. In some places its pretty small/distant (like from the golf course). In other places it towers over the town and dwarfs West Spanish Peak completely (like Grand Street). The before and after pictures are shown in the slideshow.

These pictures are accurate representations of what the new tower would appear like from various locations in town. Mouse over and click pause to stop on any image.

Methodology for the Pictures:

The proposed 180' mono pole cell phone tower site is adjacent to County Road 360 (Birch Street) on the right side of the road as one drives from town, at the elbow of the last right-turn in the road immediately before the straightaway that goes past the town/fishing lakes. It abuts the barbed-wire divider between the town property to the South and the private property to the North.

We located the site defnitively and located a telephone pole at the site. The telephone pole we verified to be 30 feet tall and located less than 20 feet away from the proposed 80' x 90' fenced compound.

We tacked a ring of large yellow balloons around the circumference of the telephone pole at the 15' mark (15' from both the ground and from the top of the pole). We then drove around town and took pictures at all locations we could find where we were able to see both the balloons and the top of this telephone pole together in the picture. The locations we took photos from were chosen simply because we were able to see our balloons (which were only 15 feet off the ground) from them. The 180 foot tower would be visible from many more locations than these.

The "before" pictures show the images without modification. The pictures were then modified in Microsoft Paint to create the "after" pictures that include the image of the cell phone tower as follows: The distance from pole tip to balloons was taken to represent the unit length of 15 feet in the photos and the exact location of the tower. I scaled that 15' unit up by 12 times (15x12 = 180 feet) at that location, to obtain the exact height of the tower at its location. An online a picture of a typical monopole cell phone tower (B of http://www.steelintheair.com/Cell-Phone-Tower.html), verified to be very similar in shape to the drawing shown in the application, was scaled/stretched to the correct height and overlaid on the picture.

Note: Details (such as seams) on the photo of the tower that would not be visible from such a distance were obscured with grey coloring so as not to allow the tower to stand out unrealistically. The width of the tower was not increased exactly proportionally with the height, and hence it is possible that the pictures show a "thinner" tower than the one actually proposed. It is thought the monopole in the model tower has only one service provider set of antennas shown, hence it is possible the real tower will have more antennae around the top. Finally, the pictures do not show the (up to 4) 25'x15' communications shelter building(s).

Note to Homeowners: If you have a clear view to the town lakes area (specifically if you can see at least the top 1/2 of the telephone poles along County Road 360 before the town lakes), I can create a picture for you of what it would be from your own home/deck/window. You can see how it will look and assess what you think it might do to your property values. If you want this, I am available to do it. Leave a comment here with your contact info or call me at 742-5538.

Informational Video from 9/10 Citizens' Rally

2008-08-04T14:29:00.001-07:00

9/17> Video from 9/10 rally courtesy of Barbara Jabaily and Mary Jo Mauro of DreamTellerVideo.com:

What You Can Do

"The worst thing we can do at this point is... to wait for some decisions to be made." (YS)

Give your Input to the Commissioners. Please get it to the courthouse by the deadline of 9/19:

Call/write/fax the Huerfano County Commissioners (COMMUNICATION REC'D BY 9/19):

Address:
County Commissioners
Huerfano County Courthouse
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Courthouse phone: 719-738-2370
Fax: 719-738-3996

(Note: It is best to avoid e-mail and contact the Commissioners by mail/fax)

Roger Cain - Chairman
District - 1
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089
Home/Work phone/Address County Road 620, Gardner 719-746-2010

Scott King - Commissioner
District - 2
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089
Work Phone/Address 719- 742-3281, 206 Main Street, La Veta, CO 81055
(Be sure to stop in his office or by his house and tell Scott what you think. He would love to hear from you!)

Art Bobian - Commissioner
District - 3
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089
Home phone/Address 719-738-2029, 312 S. Washington Ave., Walsenburg, CO 81089

John Galusha- County Administrator
401 Main Street, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Get letters to the courthouse or contact Planning and Zoning Commissoners by 9/19:

Planning & Zoning Commissioners
Huerfano County Courthouse
401 Main St, Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089
719-738-2370

The P&Z Commissioners are:

Dominick Andreatta

Dale Davis

Lewis Edmundson

Myrna Falk

Larry Mapes

Max Vezzani

(You can send copies of your letters to post on this web site to kkringel@gmail.com. It is nice to see our voice all in one place.)
______________________________

Businesses: Please Sign the "Businesses Against the Cell Tower" list BEFORE 9/23:

So far there are approximately 50 businesses signed. This will be presented to the County Commisioners on 9/24.

Contact: Meghan Brode - weekends: 742-5597 or weekdays: Meghan - 719-248-1014.
______________________________

Attend the Upcoming Commission Meetings:

9/23 - Planning and Zoning Meeting: On the agenda is to hear the input of John Galusha, the county administrator, on the tower, and finalize the P&Z recommendation to County Commission. 1:30pm. County Courthouse, Walsenburg. As all meetings are, this is open to the public.

9/24 - County Commissioners Meeting: On the agenda is to hear the recommendation of the Planning and Zoning commission, and decide on whether to vote on the tower application in this meeting, or to postpone the vote. 10am. County Courthouse, Walsenburg. As all meetings are, this is open to the public. As all meetings are, this is open to the public.
______________________________

Make a donation:

We may need legal help!

Give contibutions to: Chip Kraynik P.O. Box 544 La Veta, CO 81055
______________________________

Write/Fax/E-mail the Newspapers:

The La Veta Signature:
(Renee and David Rinehart)
4pm Monday is deadline

P.O Box 154
La Veta, CO 81055

Fax # 719-742-3183
E-mail: editor@signaturenewspaper.com

The Huerfano Journal:
(Gretchen and Brian Orr)

500 Main Street
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Fax # 719-738-1425
E-mail: editor@huerfanojournal.com

The Huerfano County World:
111 W. 7th Street
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Fax # 719-738-1727
E-mail: news@huerfanoworld.net

The Pueblo Chieftain:

P.O. Box 4040
Pueblo , CO 81003-0040

E-mail: http://www.chieftain.com/

(You can send copies of your letters to post on this web site to kkringel@gmail.com. It is nice to see our voice all in one place.)
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Fly a Red Balloon in Your Yard or On Your Car:
Make a Red Balloon Button that States "YES to cell service. NO to the location!":

Editor,

An open letter to Huerfano County Citizens and visitors.
I say ‘YES’ to improved cell service but I say ‘NO’ to the size and location of the proposed 180 foot cell tower. When you are out and about in the La Veta area, look to the Spanish Peaks. If the wind is not blowing a large red balloon will be flying at 180 feet directly adjacent to the proposed location of the new cell tower.
The balloon will serve as a visual representation of the height of the tower. The balloon will fall short of the true height and size but don’t be fooled. WAKE Up- LOOK –Up citizens and visitors of Huerfano County – this is no time to sleep! The summer foliage may block the tower from some perspectives, but Winter will provide full exposure of the tower.
Our County Commissioners and the County Planning Commission have decided a public hearing is not necessary. So be it. But, we will not be silenced. Our voices will be heard. Everyone who is opposed to the cell tower’s location, fly a red balloon in your yard and on your car. Make a red balloon button that states, “YES to cell service. NO to the location! “ The color red expresses our passion and love of our unobstructed view of the Wahatoyas.
We must remind the County Commissioners and the Planning Commission that they are in office to listen to the VOICES of the people. Tell them you are opposed to the cell tower; send them e-mails, write letters and give them a red balloon.

Meghan Brode 9/1/2008

Contact the La Veta Town Board to thank and support them for opposing the tower:

La Veta Town Hall
P. O. Box 174
La Veta, CO 81055

Phone: (719) 742-3631
Fax (719) 742-5420
E-mail: townoflaveta@centurytel.net
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Spread the word. Get your friends involved.
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Here are some sample letters from fellow townsfolk and others:

It’s not about whether we need improved cellphone service in the valley. It’s not about whether we need improved emergency communication service in the valley. It’s about how best to do that. How best to get what we need without making a decisive negative impact. The only resource this valley has (or for that matter the county) - both economic and natural resource - is the expansive, majestic, UNCLUTTERED view of world class natural viewscapes. Our income comes primarily from tourism and second home folks who come because this is a beautiful place to be. We do not have visitors come here for our cultural events - though they are fine. We do not have visitors come here for outstanding food or spa-like accomodations (though we’re okay in that department too). People come here to live and to visit because - and I might be so bold as to say SOLELY because- we have a pristine, open, untouched environment that they can’t find elsewhere. That’s it.

We are about to bite ourselves in the tail if we allow the County Planning & Zoning to issue a conditional use permit for the placement of a 180 foot cell tower on the edge of town. I repeat 180 feet tall - that’s 6 telephone poles tall .Along side it is an equipment building which houses air conditioners, fans and generators that produce at least 65 decibels of sound - all the time. This is gross overkill for this area - 180ft tower is meant for intracity transmission - what is it doing here?

The location for this sleeping giant is the very edge of town on a crest that overlooks the entire valley, just adjacent to the Twin Lakes and the golf course. You will see this 180 ft pole looming over treetops and church steeples from just about anywhere in town. It’s said that the tallest feature in a town represents its dearest enterprise. A cell tower - 180 ft tall?
This proposed plan benefits a few private individuals determined to push it through before they lose certain financial gains. The town and the county will not see any monetary rebates from this plan. The cost of the loss of our scenic corridor viewscape is never discussed. It is our viable commodity we are impacting.

Emergency services and cell service can and will be achieved by means that do not endanger that only real asset this valley has. This 180 ft cell tower at the edge of town is not the solution that works best for all. I urge us all to take time to think this through, and wait for the best plan to show up. In the meantime, attend the Public Hearing August 19th at 2pm, Walsenburg Community Center (carpool from town park at 1pm). Let your commissioners know that you value our valley’’s beauty and want a less destructive plan.

- Marta Moore, Letter to the Signature 8/5/2008

To P&Z Commissioners & County Commissioners:

There is something peculiar going on here with regard to the 180' cell tower application process.

First you, P&Z Commission, decide the issue is significant enough for a public hearing (good move) and schedule a time and place that will accomodate more than the usual handful of folks that show up at P&Z meetings. Next the Public Hearing is held at the community center. A large gathering of folks show up and 30 or so wish to speak to you about the issue - as far as I can tell, most of those were in opposition. As the hearing proceeds, the applicant is asked to present proof of certain procedural documents. Instead of being prepared and complete in this area, we find he has made a GROSS procedural error - forgetting to notify an adjacent landowner is so simple, fundamental and straightforward a part of the application process that even the most inexperienced of us could handle it. Hard to believe it's an oversight on the part of the applicant (One might even think it was planned.) So the public hearing is cancelled, and P&Z members are to re-visit the situation at the next Tuesday meeting. Well enough, due process must continue.

In the interim there is no change in the application nor in the opposition to it EXCEPT that the Trustees of the Town of La Veta write a letter to the P&Z UNANIMOUSLY OPPOSING THE 180' MONOPOLE - unanimous oppposition from the Town of La Veta trustees.

At the scheduled P&Z meeting, you take a 180 degree about face and change your minds about whether a public hearing is necessary or appropriate. I remind you nothing has changed, same application, same public opposition BUT with the addition of the opposition by the Town of La Veta. The same 30 or more people want to speak to you in person about this. The same (or perhaps more) people want to at least be in the same room as you while this matter is open for discussion. And what do you do but close the doors on the whole in person public process - instead making a weak excuse about "no statutory requirement for having a public hearing on CUPs". You will take written statements instead. You felt it important enough to hold a public hearing about the issue just the week before your meeting. What changed? And as an elected official you must always take written statements -that's no substitute. There's too much inconsistency here. First it's important then it's not. What is going on here? This smells of back room political shenanigans, too much searching for technical justifications and loopholes - and has no place in our county government.

This application is way too public an issue to be discussed and decided among yourselves behind closed doors. If the general public's interest is not enough, the Town of La Veta's unanimous opposition should be clue to its importance to the public. You are after all elected public officials with a mandate to respond to your constituents and most certainly to another county governmental entity. Again I ask what is going on here? Have you already decided which way to go on this? It would seem so. You're about to violate the Land Use Guide which we have agreed will protect our scenic corridor resource. You won't allow your constituents to address you in public hearing about this violation. And still you claim to represent our best interests? Your actions don't demonstrate it. Please reconsider this process and at least hold a public hearing.

Please consider your decision about this application very carefully. It is not the right solution for improved cell service. It is soon to be outdated technology AND at the same time permanently scars our most valuable resource, our uncluttered viewscape. If you decide in favor of this CUP, you will be leading our county into the dark ages of cellular technology instead of into the future of better service. Your legacy will stand as a dinosaur in our natural and cultural heartland. Not good for you and definitely not good for the county.

Thank you.

Marta Moore

PS .The photos you have been provided are an accurate, if not overly conservative, depiction of the visual impact of this monopole, . The methodology was carefully done and is described on http://lavetaco.blogspot.com Please extend us the courtesy of evaluating this information in an unbiased manner instead of accepting casual judgments about inaccuracies which have not been researched.

To P&Z Commissioners & County Commissioners:

Please go to the Town of La Veta's website www.townoflaveta-co.gov. Imagine now what the banner photo will look like with a 180' cell tower monopole prominently positioned next to the water tanks which are plainly in view. The cell tower will be 6 times taller than these structures. Now look at the picture of Main Street La Veta. Quaint & unique. Imagine what this cell tower will look like sticking up through the trees over these buildings. Why do tourists come here? For our restaurants, for our culture, sometimes.... But mostly they come for the unique viewscape that THEY CAN'T FIND ANYWHERE ELSE.

Our county's only on-going source of income is tourism. It is the life blood of this county. There's little hope of much industry coming to the county - our labor pool is limited. There's little hope of warehousing operations - we're too far from sources and gas is prohibitive. Tourism is our best bet and maybe our only bet for continuing revenues. It behooves you to keep our County unique and special in the array of other town vying for tourist money. (Incidentally, you're counting on tourism's money to help fund our emergency dispatch service.) Why would you risk negatively impacting this revenue source in any way? What can be worth threatening this?

Look again now at the banner picture on La Veta's website www.townoflaveta-co.gov. How can you defend scarring this viewscape for our future generations? What legacy will you leave as a public official? Will people remember how you put the cell tower up in La Veta, and tourism trickled down to a measly dribble? Good luck.

Marta Moore
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I currently live with my wife on an alpaca farm in Huajatolla Valley. Eight years ago we moved here as a retirement home. I'm semi-retired and work in Denver.

Please resist the building of a proposed 180-foot high cell phone tower, to locate on a hill at the "Town Lakes" south of La Veta. I respectfully encourage you to favor an alternative of placing phone receiver--transmitter panels on the existing water tanks on this same hill. This will provide adequate phone service and no additional structure to mar the extraordinary view of the Spanish Peaks. The proposed tower is not necessary. Monday this week I observed 4 different people seated on benches on Main Street happily chatting on their cell phones. The proposed tower is higher than any of the 5 cell towers I routinely see on my weekly drive on Interstate 25 between Walsenburg and Denver.

It is rumored that a tower will save lives. I consider this claim a red herring for the true, unspoken (who should speak it?) motive, which I suspect is to make money. Several transmitting panels on the town water tanks would achieve the goal of improved cell phone service and the claim that it will save lives, if that be true.

It would be a sad to see our unique La Veta village transmogrify into another of the countless American towns cluttered by technological infrastructure.

Sincerely,
Dave Moore
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We do NOT believe the proposed 180' cell tower is the best solution. Why would you take THE most beautiful spot in the world, full of so many differentland formations and history and plant a 180' pole right where it sticks out like a sore thumb obstructing these views. I'm sure this pole has a homesomewhere but not here, not in this beautiful valley. If I wanted to sit on my porch and look at a cell phone tower I'd stay in a big city.

There has to be a better solution but this is NOT the solution.

Thank you,
Jerry V. & Lyla T. Malzahn
2770 CR 360
LaVeta, CO 81055

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Dear Commissioners,

I will be out of the county when you have your meeting regarding the proposed cell phone tower in La Veta, so I am writing to state my opinion to you directly. Although I would like to have improved cell phone service at my home in La Veta, I do not believe the proposed tower is the best way to provide adequate service in our small town. My understanding from this week's paper is that Alltel wishes to put a panel antenna on one of the town's water tanks. I believe that would improve our service greatly and at far less expense. It is my opinion that the larger antenna, the tower, that is to be the subject of your meeting would detract from our area, as its great height would probably make it visible from many places that otherwise provide beautiful views. Since our area relies upon our natural beauty to attract tourists, it would seem penny wise & pound foolish to allow such a large object to detract from that which makes the area special. Therefore I am in opposition to said tower, and I urge you to not approve it.

Sincerely,
Roderick House
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Alltel's engineers have done La Veta a big favor. They have verified that cell phone service from a discreet antenna at water tank-height is practical for coverage of La Veta and Highway 160. And, one can assume that lower-frequency emergency service repeaters would have even better coverage from the tank site. Alltel trusts their engineers' finding, or they would not have offered the town $9000 per year for the use of the water tank site.

This proves beyond reasonable doubt that a 180-foot tower at a nearby location is not necessary. So, why would anybody want to build a 180-foot tower if 20 to 30 feet will do the job? The answer lies primarily in criteria for Federal subsidies for builders of tall cell towers, and in the desire for revenue by corporations and individuals who do not live in La Veta and who would not suffer the resulting eyesore.

County commissioners have the power to block construction of the 180-foot tower. I hope at their August 19th meeting, or any other time, they do not approve construction of an unnecessary eyesore like this.

Sincerely,
Reed White, Electrical Engineer

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To the Editor,

Many readers of the Pueblo Chieftain often visit the Cuchara Valley and the town of La Veta. The people of this region value the untarnished scenery and vistas surrounding the Spanish Peaks. However, most people in southeastern Colorado are probably unaware that the primary view of the Spanish Peaks could possible be ruined forever.

A 180’ cell tower has been proposed to be placed on a hill top directly south of the Town of La Veta. A public hearing held on August 19, was abruptly ended when it was revealed that Subcarrier Communications, the company behind the cell tower, had not properly notified adjacent property owners. For unknown reasons, the Huerfano County Planning Commission has now decided to not hold a public hearing.

La Veta area citizen’s desire improved cell phone reception, but not at the expense of damaging the area’s scenic beauty. The La Veta town board supports an alternative utilizing much smaller cell phone panels located on the town’s water tanks directly adjacent to the proposed site for the 180’ tower. This option stands less than 40’ tall. Note that the La Veta town board unanimously voted to oppose the 180’ tower and the proposed location violates the Huerfano County Land Use Guide.

Unfortunately, all signs are pointing to a yes vote by the Huerfano County Commissioners, supporting the tower. In lieu of a public hearing, the Commissioners are accepting written comments until Sept. 19. Those who care for the scenic beauty of the Cuchara Valley should write the Commissioners at: Huerfano County Commissioners, Huerfano County Courthouse, Walsenburg, CO 81089. Fax them at 719-738-3996. To learn more and see accurate photos of the tower’s affect on views of the Spanish Peaks go to: http://lavetaco.blogspot.com

Bob Kennemer
La Veta
9.1.2008

To the Editor,

I am writing to express my outrage related to the 180’ cell tower proposed for just north of the La Veta Town Lakes. It’s puzzling that the County Planning Commission first had granted a public hearing and has now decided against holding one. What changed? Could it be that the Planning Commission and/or the County Commissioners do not want the embarrassment of a public meeting?

I ‘m confident that most area citizen’s desire improved cell phone reception, I’m also confident that they do not want it at the expense of ruining the scenic beauty of the area. I support finding a solution to improving cell service in our area, as my cell phone does not work well in La Veta, but this tower is not the best option.

Aside from a public hearing, I propose that the County Commissioner impose a temporary moratorium (several months at least) on any new cell towers. We should take a step back and consider this issue in a county wide and well thought out fashion, rather than rushing it through in a less than transparent manner. We need thoughtful leadership from the Commissioners that invites public involvement.

During that moratorium, we should consider the following: 1) Can Subcarrier Communications and their representative, Mickey Villella, make any specific guarantees regarding improved cell service throughout the valley?, 2) Is it possible the proposed location could end up with additional towers, further damaging the scenic corridor?, 3) The proposed tower clearly violates several aspects of the County Land Use Guide; how is it this location is even on the table?, 4) What about other options like the much less obtrusive cell panels proposed by the La Veta town board?

Write the Commissioners and insist on an evening public hearing on this issue!

Bob Kennemer
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To the Editor and Huerfano County Citizens,

This letter is in response to the proposal for a 180 foot tall cell tower to be placed right in the middle of one of Colorado’s most beautiful and unique views. Commissioners, what do you think visitors come to this area to do, talk on their cell phones? I read that the person who wants to erect this tower has heard complaints from people that they get lousy cell service here. As a visitor, not a resident I say “so what?” because using my cell is the last thing on my mind when what I want to do is relax and enjoy this gorgeous place and feel like I have escaped the growth and “progress” that is running rampant along the Front Range.

Do the citizens realize that an alternative option can pay revenues from leases right to the town? I hear that the La Veta town board has opposed the tower. I can’t understand how the Commissioners can think about passing this when the town of La Veta has decided there are better alternatives. The citizens of Huerfano County need to remind their commissioners who they work for. The upcoming election should serve as a good reminder.

This proposal is for a cell tower that is both unnecessary and exploitive. The applicant is in this for his own personal gain, there is no doubt about that. His properties here in La Veta are for sale and when they do he’ll be gone and won’t have to look at the huge mess he’s made here in your valley. Citizens, act now and stop this now, easier to do than trying to get it torn down later.

Debi Allenson
9.1.2008

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September 1, 2008

To Those of You Who Think That the Proposed 180’Cell Tower on Grandote Golf Course is a Good Idea…,

Can you hear me now?..... Think again. To go through with this plan is a slap in the face of the natural beauty of this valley. Hold on to what is so uniquely amazing to this area by preserving it’s unobstructed view. Find a better way to bring better cell phone reception to your town.

Respectfully,
Jay Allenson

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September 3, 2008

To: Roger Cain, Scott King, Art Bobian, John Galusha, D. Vigil
From: Sandy Borthick (216 S. Oak, La Veta)
Re: Conditional Use Permit for Cell Tower, presented by Mickey Vilella on behalf of Subcarrier Communications

Please deny the Conditional Use Permit that Mickey Vilella isrequesting on behalf of Subcarrier Communications (Old Bridge, NJ). Here are two good reasons to deny this CUP:

1. The Town of La Veta is officially opposed to the tower CUP. The Town also is actively engaged in negotiations with Alltel for panel-type antennae that will go on the town water tanks. This will give us the improved coverage we need WITHOUT the ugly monopole that Subcarrier Communications wants to erect.

2. The tower proposed by Subcarrier Communications would violate our current Huerfano County Land Use Guide.

We do NOT need to sacrifice our skyline to get better cell phone service! This tower is unnecessary and ugly, and a better solution is already at hand. Please deny the CUP.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Sandy Borthick
Former La Veta Resident

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Septbember 7, 2008

To the Huerfano County Commissioners:

The proposed cell tower placed immediately south of my home in La Veta would be a scenic catastrophe. I spend endless hours at La Veta's town lakes, photographing the county's wonders and documenting them to the world.

I mean that quite literally. As I write I have web visitors from Great Britain, Bulgaria, Ottawa and the Netherlands, as well as many Americans. They are looking at pictures of the Spanish Peaks, Sangres and Greenhorn taken from those lakes.

In the last 24 hours: Las Vegas, Des Moines, Boston, Wichita, San Leandro, Richmond, San Diego, Los Angeles, Brooklyn.

Oregon, Maryland, Texas, Ohio, Florida, California, Hawaii, Indiana, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Michigan, Nebraska, New York.

Taiwan. Germany. Israel. India. Argentina. Turkey. Poland. Saudi Arabia. Czech Republic. Honduras. South Africa. Russia.

In any week thousands of Americans and Canadians visit as well as people from every country on earth - except North Korea.

Our reputation in the world is immense.

Many come to see pretty pictures of southern Colorado. All are potential, and many, actual, visitors to the county. I and all the other county artists carefully cultivate the world's desire to see and photograph our county in person.

Yes, the tower is completely unnecessary, its function accomplished by other technologies applied invisibly. But even more, that tower's location in the absolute visual center of the county is a scenic disaster: visible from approach for miles east of La Veta on 160, from La Veta Pass and Old La Veta Pass, Highway 12 and even north on Yellowstone Road.

The proponents argue that the tower is only a slight blemish on the county skyline. But I can attest that artistically and photographically it is a huge malignant signpost signifying that better scenery can be found *somewhere else*.

Southern Utah can only cheer as southern Colorado destroys its finest view.

I'm sure you see and understand the impact this tower would have. Please vote no.

Larry Hill
La Veta

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Huerfano County Commissioners, 9-2-08
Roger Cain, Art Bobian, and Scott King
Huerfano County Court House
401 Main St., Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Dear County Commissioners,

I am distressed to hear that despite great public opposition and although there is an equally effective alternative, you are still considering placing a 180 foot cell phone tower directly in the view of the Spanish Peaks. I find this difficult to comprehend. La Veta is one of the few remaining natural settings in Colorado where breathtaking mountain scenery can be enjoyed without the scars of power lines, towers, neon signs, or billboards. Why in the world would you want to mar such a natural treasure when it isn’t necessary to do so?

Improved cell phone service is desirable, but there are alternatives to a tower, which will soon become obsolete anyhow. Much less intrusive panels on the La Veta town water tanks would accomplish improved cell reception. This form of cell phone enhancement would solve the concern for improved service while respecting the natural beauty of our area.

I would also urge you to reconsider having a public hearing on this matter. Much to his credit, Roger Cain was in La Veta Tuesday, Sept. 2, talking with citizens about the proposed tower. He happened to come into the library while I was working there, and from the conversation, it sounded as though there was a need for better understanding of the facts concerning this situation. Roger was tallying votes from the people he talked to for and against the tower. However I wonder how many of those people were aware that there are alternatives. Most people are in favor of improved cell phone service in our area, but I’ll bet very few would vote in favor of a tower were they aware there is a less intrusive alternative. A public hearing would give all sides a chance to state their views and give the commissioners all of the information available to help them make the right decision.

This is a serious decision. Careful thought and planning need to go into this matter. It is not something that should be rushed. Please take the time to educate yourselves regarding all aspects so that you have the actual facts regarding what is needed and what will work. And please listen seriously to the concerns expressed by your citizens.

Sincerely,
Judith Sims-Barlow
Citizen of La Veta

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CARL SHUNK
210 E. Francisco St.
P.O. Box 1202
La Veta, CO 81055
Phone 719 742-5286

9/13/2008

Huerfano County Commissioners and P&Z
401 Main St., Suite 201
Walsenburg, CO 81089

Dear Elected Officials and Appointees,

As a citizen of La Veta I am, along with many, many others vehemently opposed to the construction of a 180 foot cell tower, which if allowed to become a reality would be a disastrous esthetical blight on our beautiful view of the Spanish Peaks and surrounding area. For me, part of the enticement to locate here was the scenery and any desecration allowed to occur by you, the elected and appointed folks, against the will of the citizenry that you represent would be a misuse of the power entrusted to your office. Need you be reminded of this? Already, you have made a travesty out of your responsibility by not opening the “cell tower controversy” to a public hearing.

I VOTE NO TO A 180 FOOT CELL TOWER!

Very sincerely,

Carl Shunk