199-foot cell tower proposed near Ocklawaha/Lake Weir
Summary
A unanimous denial protects the Fort McCoy landscape tied to 'South Moon Under' and 'The Yearling' after moving testimony from the Laxton family, seven generations on the land since 1881.
At a glance
- Total mentions
- 3
- Last 30 days
- 0
Last discussed Jul 27, 2026.
Impact analysis
Residents cited likely property value losses; an appraisal was not completed in time.
The Laxton family and rural Fort McCoy residents who treasure the unspoiled viewshed.
The property owner and Skyway Towers lose a sought tower site; some residents may still lack cell coverage.
Mentions & discussions (3)
Planning & Zoning Commission — July 27, 2026
Gulfstream Towers wants to build a 199-foot monopole cell tower on rural agricultural land near Highway 25 and SE 135th Street. Four nearby property owners sent opposition letters, but most live over a mile away and none showed up in person. The tower would host three carriers and could improve wireless coverage in the Lake Weir and Silver Springs Shores east areas.
Board of County Commissioners — July 21, 2026
A unanimous denial protects the Fort McCoy landscape tied to 'South Moon Under' and 'The Yearling' after moving testimony from the Laxton family, seven generations on the land since 1881.
Planning & Zoning Commission — May 27, 2026
A T-Mobile-capable monopole would improve coverage along SR 40, but nearby residents cite health fears, visibility and past bad experiences with towers. The commission recommended approval unanimously.
Related development
Monopole Tower
Nearby Meadow Glen residents get a redo; the tower may return at a compliant location on the same parcel.
260701SU Skyway Towers telecommunications tower
Protects the historic Fidelia Laxton/Rawlings landscape; the coverage gap in northeast Marion remains.
260802SU - Gulfstream Towers Monopole
The tower would add wireless coverage near Lake Weir; nearby objectors mostly live over a mile away and none appeared in person.
260606SU - Helgerson Trust Telecommunication Tower
Improves 5G in-building and vehicle coverage in the Silver Springs/SR 40 area.
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