Leeds and Thousand Islands to hold public meeting on tower proposal
The Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands has scheduled a public meeting to gather community input on a proposed communications tower.
The meeting will take place on Feb. 3 at 6 p.m. in the Lansdowne office council chambers at 1233 Prince Street.
The session will focus on Tower Application T00-2024-002, which proposes the construction of a 45-metre communications facility at 27 Hill Island Heights.
Township staff will present a report with background information and recommendations, after which council will decide its position on the proposal by resolution.
The tower, submitted by FB Connect on behalf of Xplore Inc., is designed to enhance internet and data services for the Hill Island and Honey Bee Island areas, as well as along Highway 137.
The structure will feature a triangular, self-supporting design with a small three-by-three-metre footprint and an anti-climb mechanism. Antennae for transmitting and receiving data will be mounted on the upper portion, with provisions for future technological upgrades.
Before proposing the new facility, Xplore Inc. investigated the feasibility of using existing tower infrastructure within 0.5 kilometres of the site. According to the township staff report, no suitable structures were identified. The proposed installation is also noted as having the potential to support colocation with other licensed carriers, reducing the need for additional tower construction in the area.
Residents are encouraged to attend the meeting in person or participate virtually to share their views.
The consultation process is a required step before approving the installation and operation of the communications facility.
The township is emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of connectivity for the region.
For further details on how to join the meeting virtually or by phone, residents can contact the Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands office, at 613-659-2415, or 1-866-220-2327.