In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding a proposed cell tower by Anthem Net in Dade City, which has sparked significant local opposition. The site, chosen to enhance coverage in the area, is located less than 200 feet from residential backyards in the upscale Willow Run community, raising alarms about potential impacts on property values and quality of life.

Residents expressed their discontent, highlighting that the proposed 190-foot tower would be inadequately shielded by a planned six-foot PVC fence and shrubs, failing to blend into the surrounding environment. The proximity of the tower to family homes, including one near the Amoli family's driveway, was a focal point of the discussion, with residents questioning the appropriateness of the site given its residential nature.

Anthem Net defended its choice, stating that the tower is part of a strategy to create a \"honeycomb effect\" with existing towers, which include one behind LaCueche Electric and another near Highway 52. However, the company acknowledged that it has not yet finalized designs for the tower or its potential carriers, which could increase in number over time.

During the meeting, residents inquired why the tower could not be placed within the communities it aims to serve. Anthem Net explained that the developers of those areas had already received entitlements, leaving no available space for new towers. They noted that while some developers might consider placing towers at the edges of neighborhoods, existing entitlements complicate such arrangements.

The discussion also touched on the long-term implications of the proposed 40-year lease for the tower, with residents urging the planning board to consider alternative sites that would not negatively impact local constituents. They pointed to other local towers that are set back from busy roads and better integrated into their environments as examples of more suitable placements.

As the meeting concluded, residents expressed hope that the planning commissioners would issue a strong non-recommendation to the county commissioners regarding the project, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the unique characteristics of the area and the potential consequences for high-value residential properties.