Gabriola-based alternatives  to a 40 metre radio tower which was vetoed Thursday by the Local Trust Committee (LTC) may have to be shorter than originally suggested by Gabriola Radio Society (GRS) President Ken Zakreski.

After the LTC said no to GRS’ application for approval to build the tower at Stoney Ridge off Chernoff Drive (see story here) Zakreski asked the LTC to confirm that their decision applies only to a 40 metre tower, not to a 25 metre one. At a June public meeting regarding the proposed 40 metre tower, Zakreski said that if their application to build the preferred 40 metre tower was rejected, GRS would build a 25 metre tower instead.

Some have asserted public approval is not required to erect towers that are under 25 metres high. However, a “client procedure circular” issued by Industry Canada – the body that oversees the installation and regulation of communication towers – states towers must be under 15 metres above ground level to be excluded from the need for public approval.

As previously reported, Industry Canada (IC) makes the final decision on whether communication towers may be erected. However, IC requires that tower applications be reviewed by any local government that has instituted a tower application review process. Last term the LTC created a standing resolution outlining the process and requirements to erect a communications tower on Gabriola.