On October 29, I reported that MetroPCS had decided to take more time to prepare their variance application.  This meant that they would not appear on the November 12 Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) agenda. 

At the time, it appeared that they would submit a new (complete) application by November 12, so as to allow a hearing of this issue at the December 10th ZBA meeting. 

Today I learned that MetroPCS missed the deadline!

They were originally scheduled to appear before the ZBA for a public hearing on October 8.  They did not appear; they sought postponement.   We assumed that they would want to have their application heard at the next meeting on November 12.   Since the application and related materials are subject to public review, I visited the planning office each week to see if they had improved on some of the more glaring deficiencies.  On October 28 I was informed that MetroPCS had actually withdrawn their application, but would likely reapply in time to meet the November 12 application deadline for the December 10 meeting.

Today was the deadline for resubmission, so I scheduled another visit to the planning office.  For some reason I was surprised by what I learned; they did not complete a new application.  The MetroPCS application for use-variance will not appear on the December ZBA agenda!

I am tempted to analyze their reasons for delaying.  I am even more tempted to make guesses and assumptions as to what their next move will be.   In terms of their motives, there are three distinct possibilities at this point:

1.        They are unprepared, OR,
2.       The delays are a tactic to disrupt opposition, OR,
3.       Both 1 and 2, above.

We have a good deal of relief in the zoning ordinance.  It requires that their application cannot be brought to a hearing without a public notice.  All land-owners with property within 300 feet of the Country Club boundary must be informed by mail.  In addition, a notice of hearing must be published in the newspaper “not less than 15 days prior to public hearing.”

Here is the bottom line, if they’re determined to build the proposed tower, then we will have to be ready for them at the hearing, regardless of the date.  

Here is our challenge; STAY READY!

As I have done before, I want to encourage you to continue to write to the members of the Zoning Board of Appeals to express your concerns.  We should also continue to talk with our friends and neighbors.  Get them involved.

Finally, we have to be ready to attend the ZBA meeting as soon as it is scheduled.   If MetroPCS is engaging in a deliberate delay, we cannot allow it to shape the outcome of this issue.  

We will use this website to keep you informed. 

As always, you should feel free to check the site for updates.  New content will always be highlighted on the WELCOME page.

In addition to this, we are building an alert list.  Sign up for alerts on the EMAIL ALERTS page.  When there is a new development, we will send an email to your email address.   This way, you don’t have to worry about missing the hearing, or any important developments.

Above all, please remain involved.  This is about our neighborhood and our homes!
 


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