CC Communications to install cell tower near Sand Mountain

A special use permit for CC Communications to erect an 80-foot cellular tower on Bureau of Land Management property located off the Austin Highway near Sand Mountain was approved at a Churchill County Planning Commission meeting Dec. 13.

The planning commission asked if there was any problem with NAS Fallon because of the height of the tower.

"The Navy has no problem with it," said Eleanor Lockwood, planning director.

Ron Simms, planning commissioner, asked if the cell tower would be able to accommodate other cellular service providers.

Cody Savala, cellular engineer for CC Communications, said BLM is requiring the cell tower to be a single-cell site. However, the site is recognized as a coveted location for service, he said.

"We went through a more extensive process for this site than any other," said Savala. "We are providing for 911 service and allowing a BLM repeater onto the tower as well."

He said CC Communications would entertain another carrier. However, BLM approval would be required.

An agreement was made by CC Communications to paint the tower a desert clay color to ensure that it does not take away from the aesthetic value of the area, he said.

The building for an equipment shelter is being built around a small hill to be hidden from mainline view, said Savala.

Simms said with increased economic development, cellular service is necessary. He said one concern was that the tower would not have a light on it.

Savala said the tower does not require a light because it is not more than 100 feet tall and an agreement between the Navy and CC Communications was in the works.

The site will include a equipment shelter, a 80-foot monopole tower, and a 4-foot microwave dish enclosed by a 40-foot-by-40-foot chain-link fenced area.

Viktoria Pearson can be contacted at vpearson@lahontanvalleynews.com