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Town tightens regulations on wireless communications companies

The Island Now

North Hempstead Town Supervisor Judi Bosworth and the Town board approved a local law on March 19 which tightens the Town’s wireless telecommunications code, adding several new regulations to govern the installation of wireless telecommunications facilities within the Town’s right of way, in light of the implementation of advanced 5G service. The new law aims to provide the Town with greater flexibility and oversight over installation of the facilities, protect the aesthetic character of the Town, as well as comply with new federal mandates by the Federal Communications Commission.

“These new regulations will ensure that our residents have access to the latest telecommunication technology, while at the same time preventing the uncontrolled proliferation of wireless facilities and structures. We need to maintain the aesthetic qualities of our neighborhoods, scenic locales and historic areas,” said Bosworth.

Regulations do not address wireless communication towers, but do address structures and equipment such as radio transceivers, antennas, coaxial or fiber-optic cables and regular and back-up power supplies.

The local law will require that wireless developers enter into a “right of way” agreement with the Town; provide drawings showing the design and installation and an environmental assessment, obtain a permit from the Building Department and notify property owners within 350 feet of the planned facility to be installed.

In other business, the Town board set a hearing date to consider an amendment to a local law that would establish new regulations and amend existing regulations addressing outside tethering of dogs. The law would address length of time a dog could be tethered outside; temperature restrictions and food and water issues.

The board also approved two amendments to Town Code that will create a process for permitting yard waste acceptance and processing at facilities within the Town.

The board also approved an agreement with Breakwater Marine Construction, Inc., for the removal and replacement of the dock at North Hempstead Beach Park; an agreement with the Hempstead Harbor Aero Modelers Society, Inc., for the use of the aerodrome; and an agreement with Port Washington Water Taxi, Inc., and Meyran Marine Services, Inc., for water taxi services and the installation and maintenance of transient and deep draft moorings in Manhasset Bay.

The next Board meeting is on April.

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