Townsend residents oppose new cell tower

Townsend officials promote their community as "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies"; but there is some concern that status could change.

AT&T is looking to put a cellular tower just outside of the city limits. The proposal is being met by stiff opposition from those who live in the area.

The tower would be built near Jennifer Moore's backyard. She's gathering signatures of those against the plan.

"There's a concern that it's going to de-value home values as well as property values in general," she said.

Dozens of people signed the petition Saturday afternoon.

"There's enough cell towers here now. My phone didn't work, I bought one that would work," Jezzie Jolden of Townsend said.

The proposed site is along Myers Road. It sits within 1,000 feet of several homes. At the November 5th meeting of the Blount County Board of Zoning Appeals, Wireless Properties, which represents AT&T, asked for an exemption to build without following minimum set-back regulations. After residents voiced concerns, the vote was tabled until December.

"They have extremely strict building codes here, and we're trying to keep our little hamlet peaceful," Moore said.

After learning of the petition, AT&T spokesperson Cathy Lewandowski released the following statement:

"While this matter is under investigation, please keep in mind that we work closely with the community while adhering to specific zoning requirements. While we're constantly monitoring and optimizing the network to ensure the best coverage possible, sometimes we need to obtain permits to install new cell sites or even upgrade existing locations. We are continually investing in areas in Blount County that will benefit from our wireless network enhancements."

It's those enhancements that many are trying to avoid.

"We're finding that people come here to get away from their cell phones," Moore said.

"I don't want the ballrooms here, I don't want the big motels here, I don't want the fast food here. I moved here cause its a nice little town," Jolden said.

Moore hopes to get at least 500 signatures. She plans to present the petition to the Board of Zoning Appeals at their next meeting on December 3rd.