An application has been submitted to build a cell tower on the Greenbrier Middle School property. The information that has been posted on the Columbia County website is as follows:

RZ16-04-04, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agriculture) to S-1 (Special) with a Conditional Use for Wireless Telecommunications Facilities to construct a cell tower on the school property at 5114 Riverwood Parkway.

The Columbia County Planning Commission voted 4-1 on April 21, 2016 to approve the rezoning of the property. The measure goes before the Columbia County Board of Commissioners for final approval on May 17, 2016.

Plans call for a 150 foot monopole tower to be located 132 feet from the school building.

Among the citizen concerns are:

1. The cell tower would be an unsightly addition to Riverwood Plantation, the master-planned community which surrounds the school.

2. There is uncertainty as to how such a structure would affect nearby property values.

3. Placing such a structure on school grounds would give easy access to thrill-seeking students who might try to break into the complex and climb the tower after school hours.

4. In the event of a natural disaster, the structure would be dangerously close to the school building, putting students and faculty at risk for injury.

By signing this petition, you are stating that you are opposed to the rezoning of the Greenbrier Middle School property for the purpose of building a cell tower. Additionally, you are asking the Columbia County Board of Commissioners to deny the rezoning application.