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Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-14 July 23, 2007 Page 2 microwave dish antenna. Verizon Wireless will lease approximately 400 square feet for an equipment area that will be screened by a new six-foot high block wall covered with Boston Ivy vines to discourage graffiti. A 48-inch box size Brisbane Box tree (LOphostemon confertus) will be planted adjacent to the broadleaf mono-tree to create an aesthetically pleasing environment (Exhibit 5). Analysis of the Issues In July 1998, the City Council adopted an ordinance regulating Wireless Communication Facilities throughout the City. Major wireless facilities are required to have a stealth design and be located on a building or in an area that provides the greatest amount of visual screening and requires the approval of a conditional use permit. The proposed wireless facility is located in the rear corner of an existing parking lot on an industrial/office complex and will be camouflaged as a broadleaf tree. The telecommunication equipment is screened behind a six-foot high block wall that will be covered with Boston Ivy. Additionally, an evergreen broadleaf tree will be planted near the camouflaged wireless facility. The applicant has explored alternatives to the broadleaf mono-tree such as locating the cellular antenna on the roof of an existing building in the area. Structures in the area, however, are not tall enough to meet the coverage needs for Verizon Wireless or adjacent property owners are not willing to allow a cellular facility on their site. The 60-foot tall facility is needed in order to improve cellular coverage and increase call capacity and quality because it is located in an area with limited access for this wireless carrier. The proposed cellular antenna will provide a benefit to Santa Ana residents, businesses and motorists who subscribe to Verizon Wireless by closing service gaps in the area and providing additional calling capacity. Equipment for the monopine will be screened by a new six-foot high block wall covered with Boston Ivy vines. All wiring and conduit will be underground or hidden in the interior of the proposed broadleaf mono-tree. The proposed wireless facility complies with the City's Wireless Communications Facility Ordinance and will provide needed service to the southwest section of the City. The proposed upgrades and screening are required to accommodate the Verizon Wireless facility antennas from public view. Based upon the above analysis and findings, staff recommends that the Planning Commission approve Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-14 as conditioned. 31 A-3