NEWMAN — Stanislaus County has denied an application to build a 130‑foot wireless communications tower on West Mariposa Street after the City of Newman formally opposed the project, citing conflicts with future development plans.

The decision, issued Feb. 4 by Assistant Planner Shante Ruiz, rejects a request from The Towers, LLC to install a monopole and related ground equipment on a 4.92‑acre parcel at 642 W. Mariposa Street, just outside city limits. The site lies within Newman’s adopted Sphere of Influence, an area where the city is expected to guide long‑term growth.

“Based on the City of Newman’s opposition to the project, staff has denied the request,” the county wrote in its notice to the applicant.

The denial comes less than two weeks after the project drew widespread attention on local social media, where residents raised concerns about the tower’s height, visibility and proximity to schools and parks. The proposal called for nine antennas, a microwave dish, a GPS antenna, radio cabinets, a diesel backup generator and a fenced equipment yard accessed by a 208‑foot easement to Mariposa Street.

The application was being processed through the county’s Staff Approval procedure, which does not automatically require a public hearing unless appealed. The Early Consultation referral was sent to multiple reviewing agencies, including public works, environmental resources, fire officials and the City of Newman, which submitted a letter opposing the project.

According to the county, Newman determined the tower was inconsistent with its planned land‑use patterns for the area. Because the site falls within the city’s Sphere of Influence, the county’s General Plan requires discretionary projects to be consistent with the city’s long‑term vision.

The applicant has 10 days from the date of the decision to file an appeal. The appeal fee is $2,599 and must be submitted to the Stanislaus County Department of Planning and Community Development.

The project had circulated widely online in recent days, prompting residents to contact the county with questions and concerns. Some commenters urged neighbors to oppose the tower, arguing it would affect property values and neighborhood character.

Project documents and the city’s letter of opposition are available on the Stanislaus County Planning Department website. Anyone with questions may contact the Planning Division at (209) 525‑6330.