Debate over proposed cell tower to continue Tuesday
Southold Town’s Historic Preservation Commission is expected to discuss a code amendment proposal with the town board on Tuesday that would permit cell towers on historic sites.
A plan to install a cellphone tower behind Southold Town Hall — and amend the town code to permit that — has drawn heat from residents who fear more towers would threaten the area’s small-town charm and present potential health risks.
The issue has also caused tension between the Town Board and members of the Historic Preservation Commission, who’ve said they weren’t properly informed about the proposed code change.
Supervisor Scott Russell said he believes the commission failed to come to a consensus and work with the Town Board before voicing their concerns at the first public hearing on Jan. 14.
“Suggestions that the [Historic Preservation Commission] has been excluded from the process are factually incorrect,” Mr. Russell said in an interview last week. “This is a public process. That is especially true for all committees and commissions within our town government. We expect you to be at the table [on Tuesday.]”
Tuesday’s work session is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Town Hall meeting room.
