Groton ― An informational meeting about a potential application for a cell tower in Noank that has drawn local opposition has been delayed.

The meeting had been scheduled for Monday, Sept. 25, at the Mystic Marriott.

Rick Smith, chairman of Noank Zoning Commission, who is assisting the Noank Fire District executive committee, said Wednesday that Tarpon Towers LLC, the firm proposing the cell tower for AT&T and Dish Wireless, is now considering alternative locations, potentially at the Groton Town police station.

Smith said Tarpon Towers has asked for a postponement and is engaged in discussions with the Town of Groton about alternative sites.

Tarpon Towers notified the town on March 23 that it was beginning the minimum 90-day consultation period with the community before it anticipated filing an application with the state Siting Council for a cell tower at 70 Marsh Road in Noank. The Siting Council, which has authority over whether or not to approve cell towers, has not yet received an application, according to Melanie Bachman, executive director and staff attorney for the Siting Council.

Tarpon Towers said in its technical report the proposed 155-foot cell tower on the one-acre parcel of land in a largely residential and commercial marina area would “provide enhanced wireless communications and improved 911 service in this area.”

“With the development of the proposed Facility, residential customers would have reliable in-vehicle and in-building coverage for their voice and data needs as well as reliable coverage for E-911 services,” Tarpon Towers wrote.

About 20 residents spoke at a meeting in Noank in June in opposition to the proposal, raising concerns that included its impact on property values, the village character, views and the environment. The Planning and Zoning Commission has said the proposal is not consistent with the town’s Plan of Conservation and Development.

Bachman has explained that state law requires an at least 90-day consultation period with the municipality before an application is submitted to the Siting Council.

Under state law, once an application is submitted, the Siting Council then requests the host municipality send in writing any preferred locations. A public hearing also is required.

Smith said the Noank Zoning Commission has no authority over approving the cell tower, and neither does the Town of Groton.

Smith said the Noank Fire District has hired an attorney and a radio frequency engineer, “to assist in making the most effective case possible for moving or modifying the structure.”

“The Fire District is opposed to such a large structure right in the midst of our coastal zone, our homes on the National Register of Historic Places, and in a place that impairs the views of so many homeowners,” Smith said.

A representative for Tarpon Towers did not respond to a request for comment about the tower meeting.

k.drelich@theday.com