Johns Creek Takes Stance Against Cell Tower Bill
The proposed House Bill would limit a city's ability to control cell towers through zoning
The Johns Creek City Council this week voted unanimously to oppose state legislation that would limit city zoning controls for cell phone towers. According to the city council resolution, House Bill 176 would negate the Federal Telecommunications Act, which authorizes cities to regulate the placement of towers through zoning procedures as long as wireless coverage is not prohibited. City attorney Bill Riley told the council that the bill is an "attempt by the cell phone industry to subvert the zoning process." While the bill would mean that cell phone companies don't have to prove a need for the tower, don't have to prove that they haven't found a better location, and don't have to prove a need to enlarge the tower later, the city would …
