Officials in southern Alberta town strongly oppose cell tower

The Town of Diamond Valley is asking people to speak out against a cell tower that would be built in the heart of Turner Valley. 

Shared Tower Inc. applied to build the 35-metre telecommunications tower near Main Street and Sunset Boulevard.

The Town strongly opposes the application, Mayor Barry Crane said in a statement.

A tower in that location could alter the area’s appearance, character and impact future revitalization efforts, according to the Town.

The tower would be enclosed in a fenced compound behind the post office. 

“A development of this scale in such a central location does not align with the vision for a vibrant and welcoming commercial core,” the Town said. 

Numerous posts on local social media suggest many area residents are against a cell tower in that location.

Approval of the project is up to Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), and is outside of the Town’s authority. 

The public has until April 4 to share concerns about the cell tower by writing both the applicant and ISED, by mail or email. Contact information is being shared on the Town's website.

Crane said health concerns will not be considered by regulators. 

A report to council on March 5 said the tower looks out of place, despite staff efforts to disguise it in renderings. 

The tower would improve wireless service in the area, the applicant said. 

Information about telecommunications towers is available at www.ic.gc.ca/towers.