AR25-041 Staff Decision - Laserfiche WebLink

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The proposed project is not a transmission line, but it is located within 200' of an existing transmission line. (D) The associated transmission line is located within an existing right-of-way for a linear facility, such as a transmission line, road or railroad, that is located above the surface of the ground. The proposed project is not a transmission line, but it is located within 200' of an existing transmission line. ii. After an evaluation of reasonable alternatives, an applicant demonstrates that the entire route of the associated transmission line meets, subject to subsections (I)(7)(b)(iii) and (iv) of this section, two or more of the following criteria: (A) Technical and engineering feasibility; (B) The associated transmission line is locationally dependent because the associated transmission line must cross high-value farmland, as defined in ORS 195.300, or arable land, to achieve a reasonably direct route or to meet unique geographical needs that cannot be satisfied on other lands; The proposed project is not a transmission line, but the proposed WCF is locationally dependent as this location is providing coverage to an area that is currently underserved by neighboring WCF. (C) Lack of an available existing right-of-way for a linear facility, such as a transmission line, road or railroad, that is located above the surface of the ground; The proposed WCF is unable to be located in a public road ROW, ROW for a linear facility, or railroad due to the required dimensions of the equipment area and foundation for the WCF's tower. (D) Public health and safety; or As stated previously, the proposed WCF will help improve public and safety by providing improved access to digital communications and emergency calls in the area and will remain functionable during power outages. The siting of a WCF is not expected to have adverse effects on public health. (E) Other requirements of state or federal agencies. iii. As pertains to subsection (I)(7)(b)(ii) of this section, the applicant shall present findings to the governing body of the county or its designee on how the applicant will mitigate and minimize the impacts, if any, of the associated transmission line on surrounding lands devoted to farm use in order to prevent a significant change in accepted farm practices or a significant increase in the cost of farm practices on the surrounding farmland. As addressed previously, the proposed WCF will have minimal impact on lands used for farm use in the area. The WCF will occupy a 50 foot by 50 foot area where the vegetation has already been removed. iv. The governing body of a county or its designee may consider costs associated with any of the factors listed in subsection (I)(7)(b)(ii) of this section, but consideration of cost may not be the only consideration in determining whether the associated transmission line is necessary for public service. The applicants state: “While consideration of cost is always a factor in determining the viability of a project, it was not a deciding factor for the location of this proposed WCF.” They state that the need, siting requirements, distances from residential structures, and an “unused” portion of land were the primary drivers for the selection of the current location. 8. Based on the above findings, it has been determined that the request satisfies all applicable criteria and is, therefore, APPROVED. Brandon Reich Date: November 21st, 2025 Planning Director/Zoning Administrator If you have any questions regarding this decision contact George Brandt at (503) 588-5038 Notice to Mortgagee, Lienholder, Vendor or Seller: ORS Chapter 215 requires that if you receive this Notice, it must promptly be forwarded to the purchaser.