Commission Takes Up Cell Tower And Medical Marijuana

Sonora, CA — The Tuolumne County Planning Commission approved plans for a new cell phone tower in the Pine Mountain Lake area, and made recommendations about how to regulate medicinal marijuana.

Last night the Planning Commission voted unanimously to issue a Conditional Use Permit for Anthem Telecom to construct a 100 ft. tall mono-pine tower at 12742 Par Court, in the Pine Mountain Lake subdivision. The tower will be able accommodate up to four wireless carriers, and it will have up to 36 antennas.

In addition, the commission voted unanimously in favor of the county’s efforts to regulate medical marijuana cultivation. However, some alterations were made to the proposal that is on the table. For example, the commission is recommending that medical marijuana patients and caregivers be allowed to grow up to 12 plants on their property, instead of the six that was proposed. In addition, the commission would like to allow 100 sq. ft. of growing space for indoor cultivation. The changes mirror an ordinance in neighboring Mariposa County. The final decision on medical marijuana cultivation will be made by the Board of Supervisors at a future meeting.