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Conditional Use Permit Administrative Report FINAL 5
A. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT & DECISION
DECISION: APPROVED APPROVED SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS DENIED
REPORT DATE: January 19, 2017
Project Name: New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC (AT&T) Stealth Tower
Owner: Seung Sik Paik, 2439 Maple Valley Hwy, Renton, WA 98055
Applicant: New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC, 16221 NE 72nd Way, Redmond, WA
Contact: Jennifer Taylor, Ryka Consulting, 918 Horton Street, #1002, Seattle, WA 98134
File Number: LUA16-000861, CU-A
Project Manager: Alex Morganroth, Associate Planner
Project Summary: New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC is requesting approval of an Administrative Conditional
Use Permit for the installation of a new 59 foot 10 inch tall Stealth Tower designed to
imitate the phyical characteristics of a streetlight pole. The four panel antennas and
associated cabling would be fully concealed in the tower. The project site has an existing
multitenant retail building and an adjacent parking lot that serves businesses in the retail
building. Existing wireless communication facility attennas are installed on the eastern
edge of the rooftop of the one-story wood frame retail building located at 2439 Maple
Valley Hwy (SR 169), the parcel adjacent to the site of the proposed tower. According
to a Structural Analysis Report submitted by the applicant, the rooftop supporting the
existing telecommunications equipment is insufficient for loading due to structural
integrity concerns. The rooftop equipment would be completely removed after the
installation of the stealth tower. No changes are proposed for the associated equipment
on the east of the building and all cabling connected to the existing rooftop equipment
would be removed and rerouted underground to the proposed stealth tower. The parcel
is zoned Commercial Office/Residential (COR) and is located within the Urban Design
District C. Access to the stealth tower would be provided off of Maple Valley Hwy
through the existing parking lot. There are 21 existing parking spaces and no changes
are proposed to the existing parking lot or landscaping. Critical areas were mapped on
the project site including Geological Hazards and Wellhead Protection Area Zone 1.
Project Location: 2439 Maple Valley Road
Site Area: 20,620 square feet
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 2 of 13
B. EXHIBITS:
The following exhibits were entered into the record:
Exhibit 1:
Exhibit 2:
Staff Report
Zoning and Neighborhood Detail Map
Exhibit 3: Site Plan
Exhibit 4: Elevations
Exhibit 5:
Exhibit 6:
Photo Simulations
Colocation Feasibility Analysis
Exhibit 7: Geotechnical Report
Exhibit 8: WA Department of Fish and Wildlife – Priority Habitat Areas Report
Exhibit 9: Structural Analysis of Existing Rooftop Facilities
Exhibit 10: Removal Agreement Letter for Existing Equipment
Exhibit 11: Example Stealth Tower Designs
Exhibit 12: Advisory Notes
C. GENERAL INFORMATION:
1. Owner(s) of Record: Sik Paik and Eunsil Seung
2439 Maple Valley Hwy
Renton, WA 98055
2. Zoning Classification: Commercial Office Residential (COR)
3. Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designation: Commercial Office Residential
4. Existing Site Use: Parking lot and strip commercial
5. Critical Areas: Regulated Slope, >15% & <=25%
Sensitive Slope, >25% & <=40%
Seismic Hazard - High
Coalmine Hazard - Moderate
Wellhead Protection Area - Zone 1
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
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January 19, 2017 Page 3 of 13
6. Neighborhood Characteristics:
a. North: Vacant, Resource Conservation (RC) Zoning District
b. East: Single-Family Residential, Commercial Office Residential (COR) Zoning District and
Urban Design District C
c. South: Multi-Family Residential, Commercial Office Residential (COR) Zoning District and
Urban Design District C
d. West: Bingo Hall/Club, Commercial Office Residential (COR) Zoning District and
Urban Design District C
7. Site Area: 20,620 square feet
D. HISTORICAL/BACKGROUND:
Action Land Use File No. Ordinance No. Date
Comprehensive Plan N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Zoning N/A 5758 06/22/2015
Annexation N/A 1789 09/09/1959
E. PUBLIC SERVICES:
1. Existing Utilities
a. Water: Water service is provided by the City of Renton. There is an existing water main in Maple
Valley Hwy (SR 169).
b. Sewer: Sewer service is provided by the City of Renton. There is an existing sewer main in Maple
Valley Hwy (SR 169).
c. Surface/Storm Water: There is an existing 12 inch storm water main in Maple Valley Hwy (SR 169).
2. Streets: There are not complete street improvements along the frontage of the site. There is an existing
sidewalk with no landscape buffer on the south side of Maple Valley Hwy (SR 169) in front of the project
site.
3. Fire Protection: Renton Regional Fire Authority
F. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE RENTON MUNICIPAL CODE:
1. Chapter 2 Land Use Districts
1. Section 4-2-020: Purpose and Intent of Zoning Districts
2. Section 4-2-070: Zoning Use Table
2. Chapter 3 Environmental Regulations
1. Section 4-3-050: Critical Area Regulations
3. Chapter 4 Property Development Standards
1. Section 4-4-140: Wireless Communications Facilities
4. Chapter 9 Permits
a. Section 4-9-030: Conditional Use Permit
5. Chapter 11 Definitions
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 4 of 13
G. APPLICABLE SECTIONS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN:
1. Land Use Element
2. Utilities Element
H. FINDINGS OF FACT (FOF):
1. The applicant, New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC, is requesting an Administrative Conditional Use Permit
Review for the installation of a wireless facilities that would replace an existing roof-mounted wireless
facilities tower on-site.
2. The Planning Division of the City of Renton accepted the above master application for review on
November 9, 2016 and determined the application complete on November 17, 2016. The project
complies with the 120-day review period.
3. The project site is located at 2439 Maple Valley Hwy (Parcel #1723059140).
4. The project site consists of two parcels. Structures on the site include a multitenant retail building, a
wireless facilities equipment enclosure and an enclosed outdoor patio owned by Classics Sports Bar.
5. Access to the site is provided via a driveway off of Maple Valley Hwy.
6. The property is located within the Commercial Office Residential (COR) Comprehensive Plan land use
designation.
7. The site is located within the Commercial Office Residential (COR) zoning classification.
8. The majority of the site is impervious surface, including a commercial building and associated parking.
There are no trees located on the site.
9. The site is mapped with the following critical areas: Coalmine Hazard – Moderate, Seismic Hazard - High,
Regulated Slope >15% and <=25%, Sensitive Slope >25% and <40%, and Wellhead Protection Area Zone
1.
10. The proposal is SEPA exempt, per WAC 197-11-800(24)(a)(ii).
11. No material would be cut on site and no fill is proposed to be brought into the site.
12. The applicant is proposing to begin construction on April 7, 2017 and end on May 19, 2017.
13. Staff received no public or agency comments.
14. Representatives from various city departments have reviewed the application materials to identify and
address issues raised by the proposed development.
15. Comprehensive Plan Compliance: The site is designated Commercial Office Residential (COR) on the
Comprehensive Plan Land Use Map. Lands in the COR designation are intended to evolve from
underutilized and vacant to compact, mixed-developments that act as a gateway to the City. The land
banking designation is characterized by enhanced master planning and coordinated design that takes
advantage of significant amenities and major transportation or transit routes. The proposal is compliant
with the following Comprehensive Plan Goals and Policies if all conditions of approval are met:
Compliance Comprehensive Plan Analysis
Policy U‐79. 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.
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 5 of 13
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 19.a CUP. If conditions of the CUP are met
the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy objective.
Policy U‐80. Require wireless communication structures and towers to be designed and
site to minimize aesthetic impacts and to be co-located on existing structures and towers
wherever possible.
Staff Comment: See analysis below under FOF 19.g CUP. If conditions of the CUP are met
the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy objective.
Goal L-P: Minimize adverse impacts to natural systems, and address impacts of past
practice where feasible, through leadership, policy, regulation, and regional
coordination.
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 19.a CUP. If conditions of the CUP are met
the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy objective.
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 19.a CUP. If conditions of the CUP are met
the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy objective.
Policy L-55: 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 19.a CUP. If conditions of the CUP are met
the proposed stealth tower would meet the policy objective.
16. Zoning Development Standard Compliance: The site is located in the Commercial Office Residential
(COR) District and the Urban Design District C on the City’s Zoning Map. Land with the COR zoning
designation is intended to provide a mix of intensive office, hotel, convention center, and residential
activity in a high-quality, master-planned development while remaining integrated with the natural
environment. Commercial retail and service uses that are architecturally and functionally integrated are
permitted. The scale and intensity of these sites will typically denote a gateway into the City and should
be designed accordingly. The purpose of the design requirements in Urban Design District C is to
encourage high-quality, pedestrian-scale structures in areas zoned Urban Center (UC) or Commercial
Office Residential (COR). Although the design requirements for structures in Urban Design District C 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
Compliant if
condition of
approval is met
a. Equipment Shelters/Cabinets:
1. Location - Equipment shelters and cabinets used to house related equipment
should be located within buildings or placed underground, unless it is infeasible.
2. Screening - Equipment shelters and cabinets shall be surrounded by a fifteen
foot (15') wide sight obscuring landscape buffer around the outside perimeter
of required security fencing with a minimum height that is no less than the
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January 19, 2017 Page 6 of 13
height of the compound fence at any point. Existing topography, vegetation and
other site characteristics may provide relief from the screening requirement
3. 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.
4. 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 enclosure is located at the rear of the site and behind the
outdoor patio used by patrons of Classics Sport Bar. The cabling connected to the
existing roof-mounted antennas would be rerouted underground and connect to
the proposed stealth tower. The existing equipment cabinets are enclosed with a
wood-slatted chain-link fence and the applicant has not proposed any changes to
the size or location of the equipment cabinet. Due to the close proximity to
residential uses, high visibility from Maple Valley Hwy, and the requirements in the
Design Standards of Urban Design District C, Service Element Location and Design
section, higher quality screening materials should be used to help mitigate the visual
impact of the equipment enclosure. The addition of landscape screening around the
enclosure, as required by RMC 4-4-140.F(1)(a), would also help improve the visual
appearance of the enclosure. The applicant may not be able to meet the full
landscape screening requirement in RMC 4-4-140.F(1)(a), but should add
landscaping around the enclosure to the full extent possible. Therefore, Staff
recommends as a condition of approval replacement screening that shall be made
of masonry, ornamental metal or wood or some combination of the three, and shall
creatively incorporate various landscaping elements to screen the enclosure.
A generator is not included in the proposed project.
Shall comply
using the CUP
Criteria below
under FOF 19.a
b. Maximum Height: The maximum building height permitted in the COR zone is 10
stories and/or 125 ft., or determined through site plan review when the project site
is abutting a lot designated as residential. The maximum height of wireless
communication facilities is governed by RMC 4-4-140F, which permits a maximum
height of 150 feet for stealth towers, if approved through the CUP process. Allowed
heights for specific types of stealth facilities shall be determined through the
Conditional Use Permit review process.
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 7 of 13
Staff Comment: The height of the proposed stealth tower is 59’ 11”. The proposal
complies with the maximum height permitted in the COR zone. The height
requirements of RMC 4-4-140F are evaluated below in Conditional Use Permit
analysis for height is provided below in FOF 19.a.
Shall comply
using the CUP
Criteria below
under FOF 19.a
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
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 site of the proposed stealth tower is located within an
underdeveloped section of land situated between Maple Valley Hwy and the Cedar
River. The area contains a mix of commercial and multi-family residential uses. The
proposed stealth tower design is intended to disguise the tower as an average
streetlight pole. However, the scale of the tower is not consistent with the scale of
an average light pole and therefore is not compatible with existing characteristics
of the site. The close proximity to Maple Valley Hwy also gives the nearly sixty-foot
tall tower a “looming” effect that has a negative visual impact on both the site and
surrounding area. See Conditional Use Permit analysis for design is provided below
in FOF 19.b, and associated conditions of approval.
Compliance not
yet
demonstrated
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.
Staff Comment: The proposed stealth tower would be located to the west of the
existing retail building and the siting would be in close proximity with the existing
associated equipment shelter. The tower would be setback 51 feet 8 inches from
the front property line (Maple Valley Highway), 12 feet 5 inches from the rear
property line, 83 feet 6 inches from the western side property line and 45 feet from
the eastern side property line. The dimensions of the project site, with a maximum
depth of approximately 67 feet, do not allow for siting of the tower that would meet
the required setbacks. Therefore, staff recommends the applicant submit an
engineering analysis to ensure the safety of nearby properties as a condition of
approval.
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 has stated in their project narrative that they do not
anticipate any changes in the noise levels. If noise levels exceed the maximum
decibel limit, the applicant would be required to bring the proposed facility into
compliance with code.
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 8 of 13
Compliance not
yet
demonstrated
e. 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: The height of the existing security fence enclosing the associated
equipment complies with the City’s adopted fencing requirements. See comments
above under FOF16.a, Equipment Shelter/Cabinets, where staff has recommend a
condition of approval to replace the existing fencing. The new screening would be
required to comply with fence and wall standards of the zone.
f. Lighting: RMC 4-4-140F.7 prohibits the artificial lighting of towers or antennas,
unless required by the FAA or other authority.
Staff Comment: The proposed stealth tower is designed as a light pole and includes
a full cutoff light to illuminate the parking lot. No other light sources will be installed
on the tower.
g. 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.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is met
h. 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: A Structural Analysis prepared by B+T Group was submitted with
the application. The analysis concluded that the roof structure with the existing
equipment installed is structurally insufficient for both the proposed new
equipment and the existing equipment. Therefore, staff recommends that the
existing equipment be removed prior to the completion of the final construction
inspection.
The structural integrity of the proposed stealth tower will be evaluated via an
engineering analysis at the time of application for the building permit.
i. 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: The applicant does not anticipate any inference with the reception
of the area television or radio broadcasts and would be required to immediately
address any interference issues should they be reported.
Shall comply
using the CUP
Criteria below
under FOF 19
j. Stealth Tower Standards: RMC 4-4-140 requires certain types of stealth towers
to meet minimum standards that effectively disguise the tower.
Staff Comment: The proposed light pole stealth tower is not included in the specific
standards identified for stealth towers in RMC 4-4-140. Therefore, the standards
for the proposed stealth tower shall be determined on a case-by-case basis by the
Administrator through the CUP criteria. See FOF 19 below for analysis related to
the proposed light pole stealth tower.
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January 19, 2017 Page 9 of 13
17. Design Standards: The site is located within Urban Design District C (RMC 4-3-500). As discussed in FOF
16, the proposed design of the stealth tower should meet the overall intent of the minimum standards
and contribute to achieving the overarching goals of the design regulations. See FOF 19.a and FOF 19.b
for Conditional Use Permit analyses.
18. 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
not yet
demonstrate
Geologically Hazardous Areas: The project site is located in a Geologically Hazardous
Area including Coalmine Hazard – Moderate, High Landslide, Regulated Slope >25%
and <=40%. Due to the presence of these hazards, a geotechnical report was submitted
as required by RMC 4-3-050.
Staff Comment: A geotechnical report prepared by Adapt Engineering (Exhibit 6) was
submitted with the project application. According to the submitted study, the existing
topography is slightly sloped to the south towards an existing concrete retaining wall.
A subsurface conditions assessment found approximately 1 to 2 inches of asphalt
pavement overlaying roughly 6 inches of silty sand with gravel and approximately 2
inches of relic concrete. Below the relic concrete, a combination of loose, poorly grade
sand and dense, poorly graded gravel was encountered that extended to the full
exploration depth of 41.5 feet bgs. The report did not identify any concerns based on
seismic, landslide, or coalmine hazards. Based upon the findings in the geotechnical
report, the site is suitable for the installation of a wireless communications structure
of similar size to the proposed stealth tower. The report recommends the use of a
drilled pier foundation to support the proposed structure. The report also identifies
the use of a reinforced concrete mat foundation as a less desirable option should
drilling conditions become difficult due to unforeseen bedrock or boulders on the
project site. Due to the anticipated smaller size of the stealth tower when constructed
based on staff’s recommended conditions of approval, a drilled pier foundation may
not be required. Therefore, the applicant shall demonstrate the suitability and safety
of the installation method in the engineering analysis report to be submitted with the
building permit, as recommended as a condition of approval in FOF 16.d.
Wellhead Protection Areas: The project site is located in a Wellhead Protection Area
Zone 1.
Staff Comment: The proposed wireless facility is not identified as a prohibited activity
in Zone 1 and does not have the potential to significantly impact groundwater quantity
or quality. If any fill is proposed to be brought to the site a fill source statement would
be required.
19. 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
a. Height and Design of the Proposed Tower: The maximum height of wireless
communication facilities is governed by RMC 4-4-140F, which permits a maximum
height of 150 feet for stealth towers, however the allowed height for a specific type of
stealth facility shall be determined through he CUP review process. The height of the
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 10 of 13
Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
proposed stealth tower is 59’ 11”. The proposal complies with the maximum height
permitted in the COR zone and the maximum height restrictions of RMC 4-4-140F, if
approved through a CUP. As proposed, the stealth tower would stand approximately
four times higher than the existing low-rise buildings in the immediate area. In addition,
the tower would stand approximately twice as high as the closest streetlight poles
installed along Maple Valley Hwy, and exceeds the height limits applied to parking lot
light poles in RMC 4-4-075E.2, which restricts lights to 25 feet above the ground.
Although the proposed tower attempts to replicate the visual qualities of a streetlight
pole, the design is not consistent with the look of an average streetlight pole or parking
lot light pole. The proposed design has the appearance of a monopole with a street
light added on as an afterthought. In order to preserve the existing character of the
area and to better integrate the tower into the site, a tower consistent with a parking
lot light pole more appropriate to effectively disguise the tower. Therefore, Staff
recommends the height of the tower not exceed twenty-five (25) feet when measured
from grade.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
b. Proximity of The Tower to Residential Structures And Residential District
Boundaries: The proposed stealth tower would be installed on a site zoned COR . The
project site is located in an area intended to be developed into a gateway to the city
that promotes high quality construction for commercial, office, and residential uses.
Existing residential uses nearby in the COR designation include the Riviera Apartments
to the south of the project site and single-family residences east of the project site. The
proposed stealth tower would be located approximately 30 feet from the nearest unit
in the Rivera Apartments building. Due to the close proximity to adjacent residential
uses and potential for the site to be redeveloped with additional residential uses, the
stealth tower should be designed to minimize the visual impact of the structure as
much as possible. Therefore, staff recommends as a condition of approval that the
applicant use a stealth tower design that more closely replicates a street light pole.
Examples of existing wireless facilities designed as a street pole are attached as Exhibit
10.
c. Nature of Uses On Adjacent and Nearby Properties: As discussed in FOF 19.b, the
proposed stealth tower would be located to the east of the existing commercial
building on the adjacent lot and to the north of the Riviera Apartments complex.
Stealth towers are designed to blend into an environment in order to lessen the visual
impact on nearby uses. Due to the intent of the site zoning designation to provide a
mix of building types and uses, many structures or facilities can be appropriate in a COR
designated area if high-quality design is used. A tower designed to replicate the look of
a streetlight pole, a common structure found near a variety of residential, commercial,
and office uses, is appropriate for this area. If the conditions on height and design are
met, Staff does not anticipate that the proposed stealth tower would have any
significant adverse impacts on the surrounding properties and uses.
d. Topography and Vegetation: No clearing or grading is proposed as a result of this
project. There are no existing significant trees located on the project site. Additional
vegetation is required to be added to screen the existing equipment shelter, as
conditioned above under FOF 16.a.
e. Ingress/Egress: Vehicular access to the project site would be provided via an
existing driveway off of Maple Valley Hwy and through the existing parking lot on the
site. No changes are proposed to the existing vehicular access to the project site.
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Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
f. Noise, Light, and Glare: The noise generated by the existing equipment will not
change as no changes are proposed within the equipment shelter – the primary source
of noise for wireless communication facilities. The stealth tower, designed to replicate
a street light, will include a full cutoff light that will increase light levels in the parking
but should not be highly noticeable to the adjacent residences due to the multiple
streetlights already located nearby. The pole will be painted a non-glare finish. Staff
has recommended as a condition of approval that the tower be reduced in height to be
consistent with the maximum height permitted for a parking lot light pole, at 25 feet
above the ground. The intent of the height limits of the parking lot light poles is to
minimize the impact onto adjacent and abutting properties. As such, if the full cutoff
light fixtures are utilized and the pole height is reduced per the conditions of approval
impacts of light and glare are not anticipated to be above what would be permitted in
the COR zone.
Compliant if
condition of
approval is
met
g. Colocation Feasibility: The applicant submitted satisfactory evidence that no
existing tower or support structure can accommodate the proposed equipment
relocation. An existing utility pole nearby with T-Mobile equipment has limited space
for additional antennas due to separation requirements between various antennas. In
addition, there are no existing towers within 0.5 miles from the project site and there
is limited wireless service in the immediate vicinity. A colocation feasibility analysis is
attached as Exhibit 6. Due to steady growth and development near the project site and
the ever-increasing demand for cellular data, the need for new or upgraded cellular
equipment is likely to grow. In order to provide an opportunity for the future
colocation, new wireless towers should be designed so to allow for the coloration of
new equipment in the future. Therefore, Staff recommends that the proposed stealth
tower incorporate space to allow for future colocation efforts as a condition of
approval.
j. Consistency With Plans And Regulations: As previously discussed above under FOF
15 and 16 the proposed installation of the new stealth tower 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 is complied
with.
Compliant if
conditions of
approval are
met
k. Landscaping: The existing equipment does not employ any type of landscape
screening and the applicant has not proposed any landscaping on the project site. As
previously discussed in FOF 16.a, the addition of landscape around the equipment
enclosure would bring the enclosure closer into compliance with current code. In
addition, adding landscaping elements that help screen the enclosure would minimize
the visual impact of the existing enclosure and will benefit the residents of the nearby
Riviera Apartments that face the equipment. Therefore, staff recommends the
applicant be required to submit landscape plan for the site that incorporates screening
elements as a condition of approval.
I. CONCLUSIONS:
1. The subject site is located in the Commercial Office Residential (COR) Comprehensive Plan designation
and complies with the goals and policies established with this designation if conditions of approval are
met, see FOF 6.
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2. The subject site is located in the Commercial Office Residential (COR) 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 16.
3. The proposed stealth tower meets the ten development standards that apply specifically to new
Wireless Communication Facilities, provided the applicant meets all conditions of approval, see FOF 16.
4. The proposed stealth tower complies with the Critical Areas Regulations provided the applicant
complies with City Code and conditions of approval, see FOF 18.
5. The proposed stealth tower meets the nine 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 19.
J. DECISION:
The Wireless Communication Facility – Stealth Tower Condition Use Permit, File No. LUA16-000861, is approved
and is subject to the following conditions:
1. The existing wireless facilities located on the rooftop of the commercial building on the project site
shall be removed prior to completion of the final construction inspection.
2. The applicant shall demonstrate the suitability and safety of the chosen installation method in the
engineering analysis report to be submitted at the time of Building Permit application.
3. The tallest point of the proposed tower shall not be greater than twenty five (25) feet when measured
from grade. Compliance with the height restriction shall be verified with the building permit application
and approved by the Current Planning Project Manager prior to building permit issuance.
4. The design of the stealth tower shall more closely replicate a street light pole. The final design shall be
reviewed and approved by the Current Planning Project Manager at the time of building permit
application.
5. The existing wood slat chain-link fence shall either be replaced by be made of masonry, ornamental
metal or wood or some combination of the three and creatively incorporate various landscaping
elements to screen the enclosure to the extent possible. Detail screening and landscaping plans shall be
submitted with the building permit application for review and approval by the Current Planning Project
Manager prior to building permit issuance.
6. The stealth tower shall be painted with a non-glare, flat grey finish. The type of finish shall be identified
in the building permit application for review and approval by the Current Planning Project Manager
prior to building permit issuance.
7. The design of the stealth tower shall allow for additional equipment colocation in the future unless
determined infeasible by the Current Planning Project Manager at the time of building permit
application.
DATE OF DECISION ON LAND USE ACTION:
SIGNATURE:
Jennifer Henning, Planning Director Date
TRANSMITTED this 19th day of January, 2017 to the Owner/Applicant/Contact:
Owner: Applicant: Contact:
Seung Sik Paik New Cingular Wireless PCS LLC Jennifer Taylor, Ryka Consulting
City of Renton Department of Community & Economic Development Administrative Report & Decision
NEW CINGULAR WIRELESS PCS LUA16-000861
January 19, 2017 Page 13 of 13
2439 Maple Valley Hwy
Renton, WA 98055
16221 NE 72nd Way RTC 3
Redmond, WA 98052
918 S Horton St #1002
Seattle, WA 98134
TRANSMITTED this 19th day of January, 2017 to the Parties of Record:
None
TRANSMITTED this 19th day of January, 2017 to the following:
Chip Vincent, CED Administrator
Brianne Bannwarth, Development Engineering Manager
Vanessa Dolbee, Current Planning Manager
Amanda Askren, Property and Technical Services Manager
Jennifer Henning, Planning Director
Fire Marshal
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 February 2nd, 2017. An appeal of the decision must be filed within the 14-
day appeal period (RCW 43.21.C.075(3); WAC 197-11-680), together with the required fee to the Hearing
Examiner, City of Renton, 1055 South Grady Way, Renton, WA 98057. RMC 4-8-110.B governs appeals to the
Hearing Examiner and additional information regarding the appeal process may be obtained from the City
Clerk’s Office, (425) 430-6510.
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.
NEIGHBORHOOD DETAIL MAP N
DRIVING DIRECTIONSPROJECT INFORMATIONCEDAR RIVERSD2410097913CONTACT INFORMATION2439 SE MAPLEVALLEY HWYRENTON, WA 98055mobilityLOCAL MAPDRAWING INDEXBUILDING CODE COMPLIANCEmobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102T-1GENERAL NOTESLEGAL DESCRIPTIONPROPRIETARY INFORMATION11"x17" PLOT WILL BE HALF SCALE UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED09-13-16
213mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102GN-109-13-16
1mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102GN-209-13-16
mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102C-1PARCEL 1723059140 LEGAL DESCRIPTION09-13-16
mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102C-209-13-16
mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102C-309-13-16
mobility520 South Main Street, Suite 2531Akron, OH 44311330.572.2100 Fax: 330.572.2102C-409-13-16
SD24 Coverage with Neighbors – Current RC 20’
SD24 Coverage with Neighbors – New RC 56’
SD24 Standalone Coverage – Current RC 20’
SD24 Standalone Coverage – New RC 56’
Tower Search Results (antennasearch.com)
Map shows ½ mile radius from site
SOURCE DATASET:WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFEPRIORITY HABITATS AND SPECIES REPORTREPORT DATE:P161102111335PHSPlusPublic11/02/2016 11.13Query ID:Priority AreaCommon NameAccuracySource EntityOccurrence TypeResolutionNotesSource DateSite NamePHS Listing StatusScientific Name Source DatasetState StatusMgmt RecommendationsMore Information (URL)Sensitive DataFederal StatusGeometry TypeSource RecordDISCLAIMER. This report includes information that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) maintains in a central computer database. It is not an attempt to provide you with an official agency responseas to the impacts of your project on fish and wildlife. This information only documents the location of fish and wildlife resources to the best of our knowledge. It is not a complete inventory and it is important to note that fishand wildlife resources may occur in areas not currently known to WDFW biologists, or in areas for which comprehensive surveys have not been conducted. Site specific surveys are frequently necesssary to rule out thepresence of priority resources. Locations of fish and wildlife resources are subject to vraition caused by disturbance, changes in season and weather, and other factors. WDFW does not recommend using reports more thansix months old.11/02/2016 11.131No priority species found in project area
WDFW Test Map Source: Esri, DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Earthstar Geographics, CNES/AirbusDS, USDA, USGS, AeroGRID, IGN, and the GIS User CommunityPHS Report Clip AreaPTLNAS MAPPEDSECTIONQTR-TWPTOWNSHIPNovember 2, 20160 0.3 0.60.15mi0 0.55 1.10.275 km1:19,842 Biodiversity Areas and Corridor Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife - Priority Habitat Areas
September 11, 2015
Ms. Andy Pereira B+T Group
Ryka Communications, LLC 1717 S. Boulder, Suite 300
918 S. Horton St., Ste 1002 Tulsa, OK 74119
Seattle, WA 98134 (918) 587-4630
(206) 523-1941 btwo@btgrp.com
Subject: Structural Analysis
Carrier Designation: Carrier Site Number: 11566-A
Carrier Site Name: Cedar River
Ryka Communication, Designation: Site Number: SD24
Site Name: Cedar River
Engineering Firm Designation: B+T Group Project Number: 90141.002.01a
Site Data: 2439 Southeast Maple Valley Highway, Renton, WA, King County
Latitude 47.47750°, Longitude -122.18694°
Rooftop Mounted Antennas at 20’
Dear Andy Pereira,
B+T Group is pleased to submit this “Structural Analysis” to determine the structural integrity of the above
mentioned rooftop supported telecommunications site.
The purpose of the analysis is to determine acceptability of the existing rooftop and building to sufficiently
support the telecommunications equipment presented in this report. Based on our analysis we have determined
the suitability for the structure and foundation, under the following load case, to be:
Existing + Proposed Equipment Insufficient Capacity
Note: See Table 1 and Table 2 for the proposed and existing loading, respectively. Requires Modification design for
Antenna mounting frame
The analysis has been performed in accordance with the Seattle Building Code, the ASCE 7 standard, and the
2012 IBC based upon a wind speed of 110 mph 3-second gust.
All equipment proposed in this report shall be installed in accordance with the drawings for the determined
available structural capacity to be effective.
We at B+T Group appreciate the opportunity of providing our continuing professional services to you and Ryka
communications. If you have any questions or need further assistance on this or any other projects please give
us a call.
Respectfully submitted by:
B+T Engineering, Inc.
Nabin Maharjan. E.I. John W. Kelly, P.E., S.E.
Project Engineer Vice President
Stealth Tower Design Examples
ADVISORY NOTES TO APPLICANT
LUA16-000861
November 09, 2016
Name: SD24 Cedar River
Application Date:2439 Maple Valley Hwy
Renton, WA 98057-3902
Site Address:
PLAN - Planning Review - Land Use Version 1 |
Page 1 of 1Ran: January 18, 2017