PEORIA, Ariz. — Peoria City Council members unanimously approved a controversial 70-foot cell tower in the Vistancia community.
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Verizon sought approval to build the wireless communications facility at the Foothills Center, arguing the tower would help address unreliable cell service in the area. But residents who live near the proposed site said the structure would negatively impact views, property values, and potentially create safety concerns.
The city’s Planning and Zoning Commission denied the application on May 7, but Verizon appealed the decision. The Peoria City Council voted 7-0 to approve the project on June 2.
During the May 7 hearing, residents who support and oppose the cell tower voiced strong opinions.
“We have million-dollar homes, and now I’m going to be looking at a 70-foot tower out my back window,” one resident said.
Others raised concerns about potential impacts on property values and public safety.
“Homes near towers can lose approximately 8 percent of their value,” another resident told commissioners.
Supporters, however, said the need for reliable cellular service outweighs those concerns.
“I unfortunately must endure the same undependable cell phone coverage other residents in the area must endure,” one resident said.
Others argued that poor service can create safety issues during emergencies.
“There’s a lot of people who are desperate and have actually listed the number of 911 calls that were dropped,” another resident said.
Ultimately, the Planning and Zoning Commission sided with opponents and denied the application in May.
“These homeowners bought homes with view fencing next to a premier community amenity. I just don’t see this as an appropriate land use at that location,” said Commissioner Tony Feiter.
At the June city council meeting, many spoke out for and against the project before the final vote, but in the end, the tower was given the green light.
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