Comment Sought on Antenna Ruling

Officials will seek public comment today on an appeal of a Planning Commission ruling on two wireless telecommunications facilities.

Pacific Bell and Cox Communications are appealing the Planning Commission’s December denial of their requests to mount personal communications antennas on a South Coast Water District tank on Caribbean Drive.

After four hearings on the issue, the commission ruled that the systems would not meet zoning regulations and would block public views, be aesthetically incompatible with the surrounding neighborhood and degrade the appearance of the water tank.

Residents of Monarch Beach Terrace, site of the water tank, argued against the installation of the two antennas, saying the equipment could cause health and safety problems and hurt property values.

“We’re very disappointed they are pursuing an appeal,” resident Tristan Krogius said.

If the City Council accepts the Planning Commission’s decision and staff recommendation, it would adopt resolutions denying permits to both Cox and Pacific Bell. The council has already set a moratorium on applications for wireless telecommunications facilities.

The council meets at 5:30 p.m., with the public hearing set for 7 p.m. in council chambers, 33282 Golden Lantern, Suite 210.

Information: (714) 248-9890.