[TowerTalk] Another PRB-1 Victory

[wf3h at ptd.net]

This is slightly off topic for tower talk, but since I've been giving regular 
updates over the last year on discussions I've been having with my township 
about their 30' tower height restriction, I thought I'd let everyone in on 
the conclusion.

Last night the zoning board gave approval to a special exception for me to 
have a 50' tower.  This came after the township Board of Supervisors admitted 
their zoning laws were not in compliance with PRB-1 and would have to be 
revised. (They also waived the $750 special exception permit filing fee).

The zoning board attorney told members of the zoning board that PRB-1 
requires them to make 'reasonable accommodation' for amateur towers.  The 
most difficult part for the board to understand was that they had no 
regulatory power over RFI.  

During the hearing I educated them on the role of amateur communications in 
fostering good will, and its position within FEMA as part of ARES.  One 
member of the board, who was also the township EM officer, said that, in the 
event of an emergency, he would definitely use my services, and could even 
install equipment on my tower if the township's tower was damaged.

It was a satisfactory conclusion to a long, drawn out process. The key 
element in success was presenting the legal arguments to the attorneys 
representing the township.  They, in turn, convinced the board members that 
PRB-1 really does mean what it says.

Regards

Bob Puharic