Garfield Township

On March 30, 2026 neighboring property owners were notified of a proposed cell tower at 684 140th street with an invitation to “voice your disapproval by attending the Garfield Planning Committee meeting April 21, 2026” for the Conditional Use Permit.

On April 21, 2026, several residents expressed their disapproval of the proposed cell tower location during the committee meeting, citing concerns about property values, the tower’s proximity to neighboring homes, and potential environmental impacts involving bees, migrating birds, and other wildlife. Residents requested that the Planning Committee table the discussion to allow additional time for research and public input.

The Planning Committee vote resulted in a 2–2 tie regarding the community’s request. The matter was then forwarded to the Regular Board Meeting for a final vote.

June 22, 2026

During the Regular Board Meeting, the board inquired about the possibility of using an existing tower, but that request was denied. Residents and board members also questioned the proposed tower location and asked the Northtower representative whether the tower could be relocated farther east, to the opposite corner of the field, in order to maximize the distance from neighboring homes. That request was also denied, and residents were informed that the board could not dictate the tower’s location.

The Board subsequently approved the Conditional Use Permit for the proposal without any modifications to the proposed location.

Under Township Ordinances, residents have 60 days to appeal the Board’s decision.

Polk County for Safe Tech filed an Appeal with the Garfield Township Board requesting for a public hearing and the Boards vote be overturned.

Under state and local law, municipalities cannot grant permits for telecommunications facilities without first having an Ordinance in place to govern those decisions. Because Garfield Township lacks such Ordinances PCST feels that Polk County is where applicants must seek the land use permits.

Garfield Township has 30 days to respond to the Appeal.

Last meeting I asked the board to implement a cell tower set back 2,000ft from residential homes (based off the tower in Wanderoos). I have notified the planning commission and provided examples of ordinances, per their direction,  but will need residents to join me at the meeting next Tuesday July, 14th at 6PM.

Example Ordinances

As Garfield Township considers future cell tower ordinances and setback requirements, I'm interested in hearing from property owners and residents of Garfield Township and Polk County about the issues and priorities they feel should be taken into account.

Please consider providing feedback regarding local control over cell tower Ordinances and placement with the form below: