MODESTO — The Stanislaus County Planning Commission has postponed its hearing on an appeal for a proposed 130‑foot wireless communications tower near Newman, granting the applicant’s request for a 60‑day continuance at its March 5 meeting.

The appeal, originally scheduled for March 5, will now be heard May 7, 2026, just three days before the project’s 150‑day federal “shot clock” deadline on May 10. If no decision is made by that date, the project could be automatically approved under federal telecommunications rules.

The application, filed by The Towers, LLC/Verizon, seeks approval for a monopole tower with nine antennas, a microwave dish, GPS antenna, radio cabinets, a diesel generator and a fenced equipment yard at 642 W. Mariposa Street, just outside Newman city limits. County staff previously denied the project on Feb. 4 after the City of Newman formally objected, citing conflicts with long‑term development plans and the site’s location within the city’s adopted Sphere of Influence.

The proposal has drawn significant public attention, with residents raising concerns about visibility, property values, health questions and the tower’s proximity to nearby schools and neighborhoods.

Newman City Manager Michael Holland said city officials continue to oppose the project and plan to participate in the May hearing. With the continuance approved, the applicant is now working with Newman to explore potential alternative sites that could move the tower farther from schools and residential areas.

County staff have noted that because the project lies within Newman’s Sphere of Influence, written support from the city is required for approval.

The appeal process was triggered because the project was initially reviewed under the county’s Staff Approval procedure, which does not require a public hearing unless the applicant appeals a denial.

Residents may submit written comments to CommunityDevelopment@stancounty.com, and the May 7 hearing will be livestreamed. Project documents, including Newman’s letter of opposition, are available on the county Planning Department website.