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<br /> " - ,- <br /> behind raised parapets on the EIC building. Jany said the City already had ordinances <br /> dealing with satellite dishes, radio antennas and broadcasting towers. He reviewed the <br /> approach other cities have taken to this new technology, discouraging the various <br /> antennas in residential areas and concentrating them in industrial areas where possible. <br /> - He emphasized that applications require a Use Permit, Building Permit and <br /> Architectural Review process. <br /> Planning Intern John Erlich showed slides of a few of the 17 wireless <br /> communication sites in Redwood City. He focused on the need for screening and the <br /> use of paint colors to have the antennas blend in with their surroundings and make <br /> them as unobtrusive as possible. <br /> Julie Skidmore, site acquisition manager for Sprint PCS, (a Personal Communication <br /> Services Company as opposed to commercial services), showed overheads of wireless <br /> technology and how PCS companies fmd antenna sites. She advised that these <br /> antennas did not interfere with televisions, radios, ovens and other electrical <br /> appliances. <br /> Ms. Skidmore advised that the growth of the industry has dictated the need for more <br /> antennas. She said PCS companies preferred co-location (shared with other <br /> communications companies) as their first choice in locating antennas, and monopoles <br /> as their last, due to their much higher cost and obvious visibility. She said the second <br /> choice was utilizing public utilities; the third choice was locating on government <br /> owned properties; the fourth choice was roof mounts on commercial buildings; and the <br /> last two choices were monopoles, first in commercial, and lastly in residential. She <br /> - added that Sprint had very few residential monopoles and would only apply for a <br /> permit for one if "absolutely necessary." She advised that Sprint will hold <br /> informational meetings "to make sure the neighbors know what's going on in their <br /> community." <br /> In response to Council questions, Ms. Skidmore said the proposed ordinance was <br /> appropriate for current technology, but not obstructive to other PCS companies nor <br /> future improvements in technology. <br /> In response to Council questions, Joe Saluda, Radio Frequency Engineer ITom Sprint <br /> PCS, said although the trend in wireless technology is for smaller antennas, this <br /> proposed ordinance would not be considered "over regulation." <br /> In response to Council concerns, City Manager Everett assured Council that new <br /> technology would not "pass us by." He said staff would monitor the situation and if <br /> need be, bring back amendments to the Council so Redwood City would not miss out <br /> on new technological opportunities. <br /> Vice Mayor Howard said monopoles are "grossly unattractive" and was glad to see <br /> that they are the "last choice." She expressed her concern regarding who was <br /> - responsible for removing unused equipment. <br /> REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTE BOOK NO. 55 FEBRUARY 10, 1997 <br /> MINUTES Page No. 153 PAGE 6 <br />