HomeMy WebLinkAboutSR_Dish_Wireless_Admin_Report_241101_v2_FINALDEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY
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SR_Dish_Wireless_Admin_Report_241101_v2_FINAL
A. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & DECISION
Decision: APPROVED APPROVED SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS DENIED
Report Date: November 7, 2024
Project File Number: PR24-000048
Project Name: DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Land Use File Number: LUA24-000065, CU-A
Project Manager: Alex Morganroth, Principal Planner
Owner: Renton Heritage LLC, 11747 NE 1st St Ste 300, Bellevue, WA 98005
Contact/Applicant: Callie Bolton, Dish Wireless, 18912 North Creek Parkway Suite 200 Bothell, WA
98011
Project Location: 207 Main Ave S (APN 7231501245)
Project Summary: The applicant, on behalf of Dish Wireless, is requesting an administrative Conditional
Use Permit (CUP) to install a new permanent Wireless Communication Facilities
(WCF) concealed structure at 207 Main Ave S (APN 7231501245). The proposed WCF
would be located on the rooftop of the existing seven (7) story mixed-use building
and would include three antenna sectors (3 antennas per sector) located behind
three (3) separate screening walls or shrouds on the rooftop of the building. Ancillary
equipment would be located near the center of the roof and would be connected to
each of the antennas via fiber and power cables strapped to the roof. The subject
parcel is 27,250 sq. ft. (0.63 acres) and is located in the Center Downtown (CD) zoning
district and the Urban Design District A overlay. The site is designated Commercial
Mixed Use (CMU) in the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map. The tallest shroud (alpha
sector) would extend approximately eight feet (8’) above the roofline with a
maximum height of 82.5 feet (82.5’) above grade. According to the applicant, the
purpose of the new facility is to provide better coverage to Dish Wireless customers
in the immediate area. According to City of Renton (COR) Maps, a high seismic hazard
area is located on the site and the site is located within the Downtown Wellhead
Protection Area Zone 1. No vegetation would need to be removed as a result of the
project and no new impervious surfaces would be added. The applicant submitted a
Radio Frequency Exposure Report and Acoustical Report with the application.
Site Area: 0.63 acres
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 2 of 14
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B. EXHIBITS:
Exhibit 1: Administrative Decision
Exhibit 2: Overall Site Plan
Exhibit 3: Plan Drawings
Exhibit 4: Photo Simulations
Exhibit 5: Radio Frequency Exposure Report
Exhibit 6: Radio Frequency Justification
Exhibit 7: Acoustical Report, prepared by SSA Acoustics, dated November 15, 2023
Exhibit 8: Advisory Notes
C. GENERAL INFORMATION:
1. Owner(s) of Record: Renton Heritage LLC, 11747 NE 1st St Ste 300,
Bellevue, WA 98005
2. Zoning Classification: Center Downtown (CD)
Urban Design District A Overlay
City Center Sign Regulation Overlay
3. Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designation: Commercial Mixed Use (CMU)
4. Existing Site Use: Seven (7) story mixed-use residential and commercial
5. Critical Areas: High Seismic Hazard Area, Downtown Wellhead
Protection Area Zone 1
6. Neighborhood Characteristics:
a. North: Vacant Commercial. Commercial Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan designation
and Center Downtown (CD) zone
b. East: On-site service and surface parking. Commercial Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan
designation and Center Downtown (CD) zone
c. South: Eating and drinking establishment. Commercial Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan
designation and Center Downtown (CD) zone
d. West: Retail. Commercial Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan designation and Center
Downtown (CD) zone
7. Site Area: 0.63 acres
D. HISTORICAL/BACKGROUND:
Action Land Use File No. Ordinance No. Date
Site Plan Review,
Conditional Use Permit,
and Parking Code
Modification
LUA07-139 N/A 05/01/2008
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 3 of 14
SR_Dish_Wireless_Admin_Report_241101_v2_FINAL
Site Plan Review,
Conditional Use Permit,
and Parking Modification
LUA14-000933 N/A 09/26/2014
Comprehensive Plan N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Zoning N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Lot Combination LUA16-000730 N/A 12/01/2016
E. PUBLIC SERVICES:
1. Existing Utilities
a. Water: Water service to the existing structure is provided by the City of Renton.
b. Sewer: Sewer service to the existing structure is provided by the City of Renton.
c. Surface/Storm Water: There are public stormwater mains in front of the site in both Main Ave S and
S 2nd St right-of-way (ROW).
2. Streets: The site fronts S 2nd St and Main Ave S. Both streets are classified as Principal Arterials. Access to
the site is provided via the public alley to the west of the structure. There are sidewalks located along the
entire frontage of the project site.
3. Fire Protection: Renton Regional Fire Authority (RRFA)
F. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE RENTON MUNICIPAL CODE:
1. Chapter 2 Land Use Districts
a. Section 4-2-020: Purpose and Intent of Zoning Districts
b. Section 4-2-060: Zoning Use Table – Uses Allowed in Zoning Designations
2. Chapter 3 Environmental Regulations and Overlay Districts
a. Section 4-3-050: Critical Area Regulations
3. Chapter 4 City-Wide Property Development Standards
a. Section 4-4-140: Wireless Communications Facilities Regulations
4. Chapter 9 Permits
a. Section 4-9-030: Conditional Use Permit
5. Chapter 11 Definitions
G. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
1. Land Use Element
2. Utilities Element
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 4 of 14
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H. FINDINGS OF FACT (FOF):
1. The Planning Division of the City of Renton accepted the above master application for review on February
16, 2024 and determined the application complete on June 18, 2024. The project complies with the 120-
day review period.
2. The project site is located 207 Main Ave S (APN 7231501245).
3. The project site is currently developed with an existing seven (7) story mixed-use building comprised of
both commercial and residential uses.
4. Access to the site is provided via the public alley to the west of site.
5. The property is located within the Commercial & Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan land use
designation.
6. The site is located within the Center Downtown (CD) zoning classification, Urban Design District A overlay,
and City Center Sign Regulation overlay.
7. There are no trees located on-site.
8. The site is mapped with a high seismic hazard area and Downtown Wellhead Protection Area Zone 1.
9. The majority of the site consists of impervious surface, including the existing building and associated
parking (Exhibit 2).
10. No grading is proposed on the site.
11. The applicant is proposing to begin construction immediately after permit issuance.
12. Staff received no public comment letters.
13. Representatives from various city departments have reviewed the application materials to identify and
address issues raised by the proposed development. These comments are contained in the official file,
and the essence of the comments has been incorporated into the appropriate sections of this report and
the Departmental Recommendation at the end of this report.
14. Comprehensive Plan Compliance: The site is designated Commercial & Mixed Use (CMU) on the City’s
Comprehensive Plan Map. The intention of the CMU designation is to transform strip commercial
development into business districts through the intensification of uses and with cohesive site planning,
landscaping, signage, circulation, parking, and the provision of public amenity features. The proposal is
compliant with the following Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies if all conditions of approval are met:
Compliance Comprehensive Plan Analysis
✓
Goal U-Q. Promote the timely and orderly expansion of all forms of
telecommunications service within the City and its planning area.
Staff Comment: Per WAC 197-11-800(25), the colocation of new Wireless
Communications Facilities on existing structures are exempt from Environmental (SEPA)
Review. While WCFs in all zones require a Conditional Use Permit, the review time for
administrative permits is approximately 12 to 16 weeks, which allows the siting of
wireless facilities within a relatively fast time frame.
Compliant if
condition of
approval
under FOF
17.a is met
Policy U‐74. Require that the siting and location of telecommunications facilities be
accomplished in a manner that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and
adjacent land uses.
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 5 of 14
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Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 17.a, Conditional Use Analysis. If
conditions of the CUP are met, the proposed concealed WCF would meet the policy
objective.
Compliant if
condition of
approval
under FOF
17.g is met
Policy U‐75. Require wireless communication structures and towers to be designed and
sited to minimize aesthetic impacts and to be co-located on existing structures and
towers wherever possible.
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 17.g, Conditional Use Analysis.
✓
Goal L-P: Minimize adverse impacts to natural systems, and address impacts of past
practice where feasible, through leadership, policy, regulation, and regional
coordination.
Compliant if
condition of
approval
under FOF
17.a is met
Goal L-BB: Maintain a high quality of life as Renton grows by ensuring that new
development is designed to be functional and attractive.
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 17.a, Conditional Use Analysis. If
conditions of the CUP are met, the proposed concealed WCF would meet the goal
objective.
Compliant if
condition of
approval
under FOF
17.a is met
Goal L-FF: Strengthen the visual identity of Renton and its Community Planning Areas
and neighborhoods through quality design and development.
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 17.a, Conditional Use Analysis. If
conditions of the CUP are met, the proposed concealed WCF would meet the goal
objective.
Compliant if
condition of
approval
under FOF
17.a is met
Policy L-54: Protect public scenic views and public view corridors, including Renton’s
physical, visual and perceptual linkages to Lake Washington and the Cedar River.
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 17.a, Conditional Use Analysis. If
conditions of the CUP are met, the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy
objective.
15. Zoning Development Standard Compliance: The site is located in the Center Downtown (CD) zoning
district and the Urban Design District A on the City’s Zoning Map. Land with the CD zoning designation is
intended provide a mixed-use urban commercial center serving a regional market as well as high-density
residential development. Uses include a wide variety of retail sales, services, multi-family residential
dwellings, and recreation and entertainment uses. The purpose of the design requirements in Urban
Design District A is to encourage high-quality, pedestrian-scale structures in areas zoned Center
Downtown (CD). Although the design requirements for structures in Urban Design District A are not
applicable to wireless communication facilities, the design and siting of new towers or equipment should
be compatible with the goals and overall intent of the design regulations. All new wireless communication
facilities are required to meet the standards and requirements in RMC 4-4-140 in lieu of the typical
development standards based on zoning designation.
Compliance Wireless Communication Facility Standards Analysis
✓
a. Equipment Shelters/Cabinets:
Location – Equipment shelters and cabinets used to house related equipment
should be located within buildings or placed underground, unless it is
infeasible.
Screening – Equipment shelters and cabinets shall be surrounded by a fifteen
foot (15') wide sight-obscuring landscape buffer around the outside perimeter
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 6 of 14
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of required security fencing with a minimum height that is no less than the
height of the compound fence at any point. Existing topography, vegetation
and other site characteristics may provide relief from the screening
requirement.
Size – The applicant shall provide documentation that the size of any
equipment shelters or cabinets is the minimum necessary to meet the
provider’s service needs.
Generators –
i. Architectural integration is required (if applicable).
ii. To the extent feasible, generators shall be enclosed along with the related
equipment. Similar to equipment shelters, the screening for the generator
shall utilize similar building materials, colors, accents, and textures as the
primary building; if no buildings exist on site, ensure that the building is
designed to blend in with the environment.
iii. A screening wall and/or landscaping material shall be required to mitigate
visual impacts.
iv. Fences shall be constructed of materials that complement and blend in with
the surroundings.
v. Anti-graffiti finish shall be applied to all solid fences, walls, and gates.
vi. A noise analysis shall be required to demonstrate that the generator will
operate within allowed noise limits if the generator is the sole power
source.
Staff Comment: The associated cabinet equipment would be located on the rooftop
of the existing building near the Gamma sector antennas proposed at the southwest
corner of the rooftop (Exhibit 3). The maximum height of the equipment cabinet
would be approximately seven feet (7’). Based on the photo simulations provided,
the cabinet would be screened in a similar fashion as the three (3) antenna sectors,
which include approximately eight-foot (8’) tall stealth walls or shrouds painted to
match the upper story facade of the building. A generator is not proposed as part
of the project.
✓
b. Maximum Height: The maximum building height permitted in the CD zone is 150
feet. The maximum height of wireless communication facilities is governed by RMC
4-4-140F, which limits the height of concealed and/or camouflaged WCFs erected
on a rooftop to sixteen feet (16') above the allowed zone height.
Staff Comment: The maximum height of the existing building is seventy-four feet
and six inches (74’ 6”) above grade. The shrouds proposed are approximately eight
feet (8’) tall. The maximum height of the proposed concealed WCF is eighty-two
feet and six inches (82’ 6”) above grade. The proposal complies with the maximum
height permitted in the CD zone.
Compliant if
conditions of
approval are met
c. Visual Impact: RMC 4-4-140F.3 requires that site location and development
preserve the pre-existing character of the surrounding buildings and landscape to
the extent consistent with the function of the communications equipment. Towers
shall be integrated through location and design to blend in with the existing
characteristics of the site to the extent practical. Existing on-site vegetation shall
be preserved or improved, and disturbance of the existing topography shall be
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 7 of 14
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minimized, unless such disturbance would result in less adverse visual impact to
the surrounding area. Towers, antennas and related equipment shall be uniformly
painted a non-reflective neutral color that best matches the colors within the
immediately surrounding built and natural landscape in order to reduce the
contrast between the WCF and the landscape.
Staff Comment: The applicant has proposed to fully screen the three (3) antenna
sectors and cabinet enclosure with shrouds approximately eight feet (8’) tall (Exhibit
4). The applicant has proposed shrouds cylindrical in nature, which would be
painted grey to match the color of the facade of the top floor of the existing
building. Although the submitted photo simulations provided by the applicant
indicate that all sides would be adequately screened, the material color and texture
used for the enclosures could not be analyzed as no specifications were provided. In
order to ensure the shrouds are durable, will adequately screen the equipment on
all sides, and match the general building aesthetics, staff recommends as a
condition of approval, that the applicant submit specification sheets for the
proposed screening shrouds. In addition, the applicant shall submit samples of the
materials proposed for the shroud screening to ensure the materials are consistent
with the building architecture and aesthetic. The specification sheets and material
samples shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and
approval prior to building permit issuance.
In addition to the material, staff has specific concerns with the Alpha sector
proposed on the northeast corner of the rooftop. The northeast corner of the
building is one of the primary focal points of the building and includes design
elements such as a full-length chamfered corner, articulated roof lines, and
projecting cornices that highlight the main commercial entry while tying into the
aesthetics of the rest of the building. The antennas and associated shroud for the
Alpha sector is a standalone rooftop feature that does not successfully blend into
the existing building when viewed from the street and therefore does not preserve
the existing character. Therefore, staff recommends as a condition of approval, the
applicant shall reduce the visual impact of the proposed antenna sector at the
northeast corner (Alpha sector) of the building rooftop by relocating the antennas
to a more interior location on the rooftop, integrating the antennas into the building
facade, or significantly reducing the height of both the antennas shroud to
eliminate the impact of the equipment when viewed at ground level. The updated
plans shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and
approval prior to building permit issuance.
N/A
d. Setbacks: RMC 4-4-140F.4 requires that towers be set back from each property
line by a distance equal to the tower height, unless an engineering analysis
concludes that a reduced setback is safe for abutting properties and the
Administrator determines that a reduced setback is appropriate for the site.
✓
e. Maximum Noise Levels: RMC 4-4-140F.5 limits the noise of equipment
associated with Wireless Communication Facilities to forty-five (45) decibels as
measured from the nearest property line on which the facility is located.
Staff Comment: The applicant submitted an Acoustical Report, prepared by SSA
Acoustics, dated November 15, 2023 (Exhibit 7). The technician gathered ambient
noise data at the site using a Svantek 971 sound level meter on November 14, 2023.
The average ambient noise level on the site was determined to be approximately 60
decibels (dBA). According to the Acoustical Report, the primary noise source from
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 8 of 14
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the proposed project is the equipment cabinet. The predicted noise levels at five feet
(5’) from the cabinet is 65 decibels (dBA). The stealth enclosure surrounding the
equipment cabinet combined with the distance factor of the receiving properties
reduces the dBA at the receiving (i.e. neighboring) properties to 37 dBA. Therefore,
the proposal is compliant with the maximum noise levels for Wireless
Communications Facilities at receiving properties. If noise levels exceed the
maximum decibel limit at any point during the facility’s lifespan, the applicant
would be required to bring the proposed facility into compliance with code. See FOF
17.f for additional analysis and condition of approval related to noise impacts.
N/A
f. Fencing: RMC 4-4-040 limits fences within commercial and industrial zoning to a
maximum height of 8 feet. In addition, RMC 4-4-140F.6 requires the installation of
security fencing coated with a non-reflective neutral fence.
Staff Comment: No fences are proposed as part of the concealed WCF project.
✓
g. Lighting: RMC 4-4-140F.7 prohibits the artificial lighting of towers or antennas,
unless required by the FAA or other authority.
Staff Comment: No new lighting is proposed as a part of the concealed WCF project.
✓
h. Advertising Prohibited: RMC 4-4-140F.8 prohibits the placement of advertising
on any part of the Wireless Communication Facility or associated equipment.
Staff Comment: The applicant has not proposed any type of advertising to be
included on the structure.
Compliance not yet
demonstrated
i. Building Standards: RMC 4-4-140F.9 requires support structures to be
constructed so as to meet or exceed the most recent Electronic Industries
Association/Telecommunications Industries Association (EIA/TIA) 222 Revision G
Standard. Prior to issuance of a building permit the Building Official shall be
provided with an engineer’s certification that the support structure’s design meets
or exceeds those standards.
Staff Comment: The structural integrity of the proposed concealed WCF will be
evaluated via engineering analysis at the time of building permit application.
✓
j. Radio Frequency Standards: RMC 4-4-140F.10 requires the applicant to ensure
that the Wireless Communication Facility will not cause localized interference with
the reception of area television or radio broadcasts.
Staff Comment: Staff does not anticipate any interference with the reception of the
area television or radio broadcasts. The technology for WCFs is well-established and
noticeable interference with other signals is rare. However, if reported, the
applicant would be required to immediately address any interference issues during
any point of the facility’s lifespan.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is met, as
well as condition
of approval under
FOF 15.c
k. Camouflaged Wireless Communication Facility Standards: RMC 4-4-140
requires camouflaged facilities to meet minimum standards that effectively
disguise the antennas and related equipment.
1. Building Addition: All antennas shall be fully concealed within a structure that is
architecturally compatible with the existing building. Roof top additions shall be
concealed on all sides.
2. Related Equipment: The related equipment shall be completely concealed inside
a structure or inside an underground vault. Concrete masonry unit (CMU) walls and
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 9 of 14
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prefabricated facilities do not meet the intent of a concealed WCF. Equipment
enclosures shall be designed to be compatible with the existing building/structure.
3. Materials: Fiberglass reinforced plastic or radio frequency transparent materials
may be used to screen and integrate a WCF with an existing building. Visible
transition lines between the old and new surfaces are prohibited.
4. Architectural Elements: New architectural features such as columns, pilasters,
corbels, or other ornamentation that conceal antennas may be used if they
complement the architecture of the existing building.
5. Residential Buildings: Wireless communication facilities shall not be located on
residential buildings except for multi-family structures constructed pursuant to the
International Building Code as an occupancy group R-2, which may serve as a
support structure if the interior wall or ceiling immediately abutting the facility is
an unoccupied residential space (e.g., stairwells, elevator shafts, mechanical
rooms, etc.).
Staff Comment: The antennas associated with the proposed WCF would be fully
screened behind RF-porous shrouds painted to match the color of the upper-story
facade of the existing building. See above under c. Visual Impact for a recommended
condition of approval related to the appearance of the shrouds. The four (4)
cylindrical enclosures, which provide screening for the three (3) antenna sectors and
the associated cabinet equipment, would be architecturally compatible with the
existing building, matching the rounded northeast corner of the existing building
facade and roofline. The existing building is a multi-family structure constructed as
an occupancy group R-2. Based on the submitted application documents, which did
not include building floorplans, it is unclear whether or not the areas under the
equipment are comprised of unoccupied residential space. Therefore, staff
recommends as a condition of approval, that the applicant submit floor plans for
any floor directly below the proposed equipment. The floor plans shall show the
approximate locations of the proposed equipment and demonstrate compliance
with standard in RMC 4-4-140G.5. The plans shall be submitted with the building
permit for review and approval by the Current Planning Project Manager. If the
applicant determines the equipment needs to be relocated to comply with the
standard, a revision to the approved Conditional Use Permit may be required at the
discretion of the Current Planning Project Manager.
16. Critical Areas: Project sites which contain critical areas are required to comply with the Critical Areas
Regulations (RMC 4-3-050). The proposal is consistent with the Critical Areas Regulations, if all conditions
of approval are complied with:
Compliance Critical Areas Analysis
✓
Geologically Hazardous Areas: Based upon the results of a geotechnical report and/or
independent review, conditions of approval for developments may include buffers
and/or setbacks from buffers. A standard 15-foot building setback is required for all
structures from Protected Slope areas.
A 50-foot buffer and 15-foot building setback are required from Very High Landslide
Hazard Areas.
Staff Comment: The proposed WCF would be located within a High Seismic Hazard area.
A geotechnical report was waived as part of the land use submittal application.
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
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However, a geotechnical report may be required as part of the building permit
submittal at the discretion of the Building Official.
✓
Wellhead Protection Areas:
Staff Comment: The site is located within the Downtown Wellhead Protection Area
Zone 1. No ground disturbance is proposed and all equipment would be located on the
roof of the existing building.
17. Conditional Use Analysis: In lieu of the criteria normally evaluated for Conditional Use Permits, the
following criteria (RMC 4-9-030E) will be considered in determining whether to issue a Conditional Use
Permit for a wireless communication facility.
Compliance Conditional Use Analysis for Wireless Facilities
Compliant if
condition of
approval under
FOF 15: Zoning
Development
Standard
Compliance is
met
a. Height and Design: The height of the proposed tower and/or antenna as well as
incorporation of design characteristics that have the effect of reducing or eliminating
visual obtrusiveness.
Staff Comment: The proposed design of the concealed WCF antennas and associated
equipment includes full-length shrouds, painted to match the color of the upper-story
facade of the existing building and designed to complement the geometry of the
existing structure facade. The shrouds would extend approximately eight feet (8’)
higher than the existing building roofline with a maximum height of eighty-two feet
and six inches (82’ 6”). The shrouds, which would fully screen the equipment, would
not appear visually out of place and/or create a negative visual impact on the building
or site as a whole, if all conditions of approval are met. Only one (1) of the four (4)
enclosures, would extend above the parapet and vary in size, and most of the shrouds
would not be visible from the ROW adjacent to the site.
The facades of the existing building include a variety of both vertical and horizontal
facade modulations. While the photo simulations (Exhibit 4) indicate the shrouds
surrounding the equipment may be visible from both Park Ave N and S 2nd St, the
screening structures would not look out of place as they have been integrated into the
existing rooftop adequately. Detailed information on the screening wall material and
color was not provided to staff with the application. See FOF 15: Zoning Development
Standard Compliance, c. Visual Impact for additional analysis and recommended
condition of approval related to the design of the shrouds.
✓
b. Proximity to Surrounding Uses: The nature of uses on adjacent and nearby
properties and the proximity of the tower and/or antenna to residential structures
and residential district boundaries.
Staff Comment: No residential districts are located near the proposed project. The
nearest residential use is the mixed-use building (Second and Main Apartments) that
the WCF equipment is proposed to be installed on top of. The visual impact of the
antenna and equipment screening would be limited for residents in the building and
is unlikely to be noticeable to other residential uses located north of the project site,
primarily due to the urban nature of the development downtown which includes many
taller buildings with other rooftop equipment or similar WCF equipment, if all
recommended conditions of approval are met. Residential uses are also located
approximately 700 feet (700’) to the west, which is on the other side of Interstate 405
(I-405). Due to the difference in grade between east and west sides of the highway,
the screened WCF equipment would have a minimal visual impact. Therefore, the WCF
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
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would not have a negative impact on any residential uses in the nearby area if all
recommended conditions of approval are met.
✓
c. Nature of Surrounding Uses: The nature of uses on adjacent and nearby properties.
The proposed use at the proposed location shall not result in substantial or undue
adverse effects on adjacent property.
Staff Comment: The proposed WCF is located on the perimeter of the core downtown
area that includes a variety of building and architectural styles. The addition of the
concealed WCF on an existing large-scale mixed-use building that are visually
compatible with the underlying structure would not result in adverse effects on any
adjacent properties or surrounding uses.
✓
d. Topography and Vegetation: The surrounding topography and tree canopy
coverage.
Staff Comment: No vegetation clearing or grading is proposed as a result of this
project.
✓
e. Ingress/Egress: Vehicular access to the project site would be provided via an
existing alley behind the building connecting S 2nd St and S 3rd St. No changes are
proposed to the existing vehicular access to the project site.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is met
f. Impacts: The potential noise, light, glare, and visual impacts.
Staff Comment: The proposal does not include any light sources, thus there is no
potential for light or glare to impact neighboring properties. See FOF 15: Zoning
Development Standard Compliance for additional analysis. While no light is
anticipated to impact nearby properties or residents of the building where the WCF is
proposed, the proposed WCF does have the potential to create noise impacts as
documented in the Acoustic Report (Exhibit 7). Therefore, in order to ensure residents
in the building that the WCF is proposed on are not negatively impacted by noise
created by the equipment, staff recommends as a condition of approval, the applicant
shall submit an updated acoustical report that includes analysis of noise levels in
residential units below or adjacent to the proposed equipment. If noise levels are
found to exceed current ambient noise levels in any units located below the
equipment, the applicant shall propose mitigation measures such as the installation
of triple pane windows or the installation of noise dampening materials near the
equipment, in order to reduce any excess noise over ambient levels. The acoustical
report, including any proposed mitigation measures, shall be submitted to the Current
Planning Project Manager for review and approval prior to building permit issuance.
If mitigation measures are proposed, a written narrative of the equipment and
materials selected shall be reviewed and approved by the Current Planning Project
Manager prior to building permit issuance.
✓
g. Colocation Feasibility: The availability of suitable existing towers and other
structures to accommodate the proposal.
Staff Comment: The applicant proposed installing all infrastructure associated with
the WCF on an existing structure and therefore meets the intent of the colocation
feasibility criteria.
✓
h. Consistency with Plans and Regulations: The compatibility with the general
purpose, goals, objectives and standards of the Comprehensive Plan, this Title, and
any other City plan, program, map or ordinance.
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 12 of 14
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Staff Comment: As previously discussed above under FOF 15 and 16, the installation
of the proposed concealed WCF is consistent with the city’s adopted Comprehensive
Plan, Zoning Ordinance, and RMC 4-4-140 Wireless Communication Facilities
regulations provided the conditions of approval are complied with.
✓
i. Landscaping: Additional landscaping may be required to buffer adjacent properties
from potentially adverse effects of the proposed use.
Staff Comment: Minimal landscaping is present on the site due to the large building
footprint. All equipment associated with the proposed WCF would be located on the
rooftop and therefore no additional landscaping is possible.
I. CONCLUSIONS:
1. The subject site is located in the Commercial & Mixed Use (CMU) Comprehensive Plan designation and
complies with the goals and policies established with this designation, see FOF 14.
2. The subject site is located in the Center Downtown (CD) zoning designation and complies with the zoning
and development standards established with this designation provided the applicant complies with City
Code and conditions of approval, see FOF 15.
3. The proposed concealed WCF meets the 11 development standards that apply specifically to new Wireless
Communication Facilities, provided the applicant meets all conditions of approval, see FOF 15.
4. The proposed concealed WCF complies with the Critical Areas Regulations provided the applicant
complies with City Code and conditions of approval, see FOF 16.
5. The proposed concealed WCF meets the nine (9) special decision criteria considered when making a
decision on a conditional use permit request for a Wireless Communications Facility, as specified in RMC
4-9-030E, provided the applicant meets all conditions of approval, see FOF 17.
6. A key feature which is integral to this project is the use of high-quality, durable, full-length shrouds that
fully screen the WCF equipment, reduces the visual impact of the Alpha sector equipment, and the no
increase in sound levels for the residents of the building.
J. DECISION:
The DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E, Conditional Use Permit (CUP), File No. LUA24-000065, CU-A, as depicted in
Exhibits 2 and 3, is approved and is subject to the following conditions:
1. The applicant shall submit specification sheets for the proposed screening shrouds. In addition, the
applicant shall submit samples of the materials proposed for the shroud screening to ensure the materials
are consistent with the building architecture and aesthetic. The specification sheets and material samples
shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and approval prior to building
permit issuance.
2. The applicant shall submit floor plans for any floor directly below the proposed equipment. The floor plans
shall show the approximate locations of the proposed equipment and demonstrate compliance with
standard in RMC 4-4-140G.5. The plans shall be submitted with the building permit for review and
approval by the Current Planning Project Manager. If the applicant determines the equipment needs to
be relocated to comply with the standard, a revision to the approved Conditional Use Permit may be
required at the discretion of the Current Planning Project Manager.
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 13 of 14
SR_Dish_Wireless_Admin_Report_241101_v2_FINAL
3. The applicant shall reduce the visual impact of the proposed antenna sector at the northeast corner (Alpha
sector) of the building rooftop by relocating the antennas to a more interior location on the rooftop,
integrating the antennas into the building facade, or significantly reducing the height of both the antennas
shroud to eliminate the impact of the equipment when viewed at ground level. The updated plans shall
be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review and approval prior to building permit
issuance.
4. The applicant shall submit an updated acoustical report that includes analysis of noise levels in residential
units below or adjacent to the proposed equipment. If noise levels are found to exceed current ambient
noise levels in any units located below the equipment, the applicant shall propose mitigation measures
such as the installation of triple pane windows or the installation of noise dampening materials near the
equipment, in order to reduce any excess noise over ambient levels. The acoustical report, including any
proposed mitigation measures, shall be submitted to the Current Planning Project Manager for review
and approval prior to building permit issuance. If mitigation measures are proposed, a written narrative
of the equipment and materials selected shall be reviewed and approved by the Current Planning Project
Manager prior to building permit issuance.
DATE OF DECISION ON LAND USE ACTION:
SIGNATURE:
Matthew Herrera, Planning Director Date
TRANSMITTED on November 7, 2024 to the Owner/Applicant/Contact:
Owner: Applicant/Contact:
Renton Heritage LLC
11747 NE 1st St Ste 300
Bellevue, WA 98005
Callie Bolton, Dish Wireless
18912 North Creek Parkway Suite 200
Bothell, WA 98011
TRANSMITTED on November 7, 2024 to the Parties of Record:
None
TRANSMITTED on November 7, 2024 to the following:
Gina Estep, CED Administrator
Brianne Bannwarth, Development Engineering Director
Amanda Askren, Economic Development Acting Director
Clark Close Current Planning Manager
Anjela Barton, Fire Marshal
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
11/7/2024 | 4:26 PM PST
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Administrative Report & Decision
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Report of November 7, 2024 Page 14 of 14
SR_Dish_Wireless_Admin_Report_241101_v2_FINAL
K. LAND USE ACTION APPEALS, REQUEST FOR RECONSIDERATION, & EXPIRATION:
The administrative land use decision will become final if the decision is not appealed within 14 days of the decision
date.
APPEAL: This administrative land use decision will become final if not appealed in writing to the Hearing
Examiner on or before 5:00 PM on November 21, 2024. An appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-
day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197-11-680). Appeals must be submitted electronically to the City
Clerk at cityclerk@rentonwa.gov or delivered to City Hall 1st floor Lobby Hub Monday through Friday. The appeal
fee, normally due at the time an appeal is submitted, will be collected at a future date if your appeal is submitted
electronically. The appeal submitted in person may be paid on the first floor in our Finance Department. Appeals
to the Hearing Examiner are governed by RMC 4-8-110 and additional information regarding the appeal process
may be obtained from the City Clerk’s Office, cityclerk@rentonwa.gov.
EXPIRATION: The Conditional Use Permit decision will expire two (2) years from the date of decision. A single two
(2) year extension may be requested pursuant to RMC 4-9-030.
RECONSIDERATION: Within 14 days of the decision date, any party may request that the decision be reopened
by the approval body. The approval body may modify his decision if material evidence not readily discoverable
prior to the original decision is found or if he finds there was misrepresentation of fact. After review of the
reconsideration request, if the approval body finds sufficient evidence to amend the original decision, there will
be no further extension of the appeal period. Any person wishing to take further action must file a formal appeal
within the 14-day appeal time frame.
THE APPEARANCE OF FAIRNESS DOCTRINE: provides that no ex parte (private one-on-one) communications
may occur concerning the land use decision. The Doctrine applies not only to the initial decision, but to Appeals
to the Hearing Examiner as well. All communications after the decision/approval date must be made in writing
through the Hearing Examiner. All communications are public record and this permits all interested parties to
know the contents of the communication and would allow them to openly rebut the evidence in writing. Any
violation of this doctrine could result in the invalidation of the appeal by the Court.
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30
CITY OF RENTON
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & DECISION
EXHIBITS
Project Name:
DISH Wireless - SESEA00218E
Land Use File Number:
LUA24-000065, CU-A
Date of Report
November 7, 2024
Staff Contact
Alex Morganroth
Principal Planner
Project Contact/Applicant
Callie Bolton
Dish Wireless
18912 North Creek Parkway
Suite 200 Bothell, WA 98011
Project Location
207 Main Ave S (APN
7231501245)
The following exhibits are included with the Administrative report:
Exhibit 1: Administrative Decision
Exhibit 2: Overall Site Plan
Exhibit 3: Plan Drawings
Exhibit 4: Photo Simulations
Exhibit 5: Radio Frequency Exposure Report
Exhibit 6: Radio Frequency Justification
Exhibit 7: Acoustical Report, prepared by SSA Acoustics, dated November 15, 2023
Exhibit 8: Advisory Notes
Docusign Envelope ID: A830AE25-EBFC-4E86-B4AB-7D0B0E992C30