10/09/1989 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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.'- e VII. PUBLIC HEARING: ORDINANCE CONCERNING AMATEUR RADIO ANTENNA STRUCTURES City Manager Mike Gleason introduced the item. Jerry Jacobson, Planning and Development Department staff, reported that the impetus behind the ordinance is an order issued by the Federal Communications Commission requiring local jurisdictions to reasonably accommodate amateur radio communications facil ities. The FCC recognizes that amateur ("ham") radio is a vital, noncommercial communication service with particular respect to providing emergency communication as well as promoting international good will. Currently, City Code regulates the placement of amateur radio and other antenna structures through the conditional use permit process which is costly and often prevents some citizens from being involved in amateur radio. The proposed amendment would reasonably accommodate amateur radio antenna structures in a consistent manner that will allow those structures in residential areas subject to certain development standards pertaining to heights, setback, and safety. These standards would be regulated through the building permit process. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended adoption of the proposed ordinance. Mr. Boles asked about restrictions affecting guy wires placed on adjacent property. Mr. Jacobson explained that the placement of guy wires must conform to setback requirements and may not cross property lines. This may preclude establishing towers on some lots. e Councilor Bascom opened the public hearing. Robert Bennett, 85334 South Willamette Street, described amateur radio service as an effective way to stimulate a technical interest among young people and to provide an opportunity for self-improvement and career development. Because the conditional use permit process and its fee makes that involvement difficult for many, he urged passage of the ordinance before the council. There being no additional requests to speak, Councilor Bascom closed the public hearing. CB 4165--An ordinance concerning amateur radio antenna structures; amending Sections 9.015, 9.384, 9.386, 9.439, 9.440, and 9.536 of the Eugene Code, 1971; and declaring an emergency. Ms. Schue moved, seconded by Mr. Holmer, that the bill with unanimous consent of the council, be read the second time by council bill number only, and that enactment be considered at this time. Roll call vote; the motion carried unanimously, 7:0. Council Bill 4165 was read the second time by number only. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council October 9, 1989 Page 11 ---