A proposal to erect a new cell tower on Route 22 drew more than an hour of public testimony Thursday, Sept. 4, with residents and town officials weighing its potential benefits against concerns about its impact on Ancram’s rural character.
Verizon Wireless and Homeland Towers first approached the Ancram Planning Board in November 2024 with an application to build a 150-foot tower to close a service gap along Route 22. Represented by attorney David Kenny of Snyder & Snyder and Matt Allen of Saratoga Associates, the companies have since revised their application to a 100-foot tower, a change they say was made possible by new “radiohead” technology designed to strengthen antenna coverage.
At Thursday’s meeting, Kenny and Allen presented revised visual impact simulations and fielded questions from board members. The application had been delayed at the August meeting to allow the town’s planning consultant, attorney, and hired wireless consultant, CityScape, time to review the changes.
Public opposition
Public comments were dominated by members of Ancram’s Conservation Advisory Council, who submitted a 15-page report and a petition opposing the tower signed by more than 250 residents. Speakers questioned the need for the tower, the possibility of locating it elsewhere, and whether it would serve town residents or primarily benefit drivers on Route 22 and users of the Harlem Valley Rail Trail.
“There is no demonstration of need. There is no demonstration of benefits. This tower would have a profound negative impact on the scenic overlay corridor and the town’s rural character,” said Tom Ciano of the Conservation Advisory Council. He added: “No need… no benefits… profound negative impact on the town’s rural character. Approving one industrial structure paves the way for many more. If we allow this… what’s next?”
Robert Waterson echoed those concerns, telling the board: “There is no demonstration of need. There is no demonstration of benefits. This tower would have a profound negative impact on the scenic overlay corridor and the town’s rural character.”
Consultants weigh in
Kenny pushed back, arguing that the company’s analysis of need and benefits had already been verified by CityScape. A representative from the firm, appearing remotely via Zoom, confirmed that CityScape’s review recommended approval of the application.
Planning Board member Tom Brondolo asked Verizon and Homeland for more analysis of whether residents in the Boston Corners hamlet of Ancram would see improved coverage from the proposed tower.
After discussion, the Planning Board voted unanimously to seek permission from the Town Board to hire an independent consultant to review the company’s photographs and visual simulations, at a cost of $2,500. The board also voted to continue the public hearing at its next meeting on Oct. 9.
My cell service has never been this bad. My outgoing and incoming calls break up even when I get through.
Since I live alone, it is necessary for me to communicate . Please allow this cell tower to be built. Thank you.