By By Fredie Carmichael/The Meridian Star
Nov. 25, 2001
Officials at Naval Air Station Meridian want to be notified before Lauderdale County supervisors give approval for the construction of future cellular phone towers near the base.
Lt. Mike McCarthy told county supervisors recently that Navy officials became concerned after the county approved a 198-foot tower without informing NAS Meridian.
McCarthy said that lights on the 198-foot tower could distract Navy aircraft. He said the Navy is worried that a plethora of flashing lights could distract pilots in training.
McCarthy spoke to supervisors on behalf of Capt. Jeffrey K. Dickman, commanding officer of NAS Meridian.
Dickman sent a letter to supervisors Nov. 19, asking them to allow Navy input when considering cell towers within a 10-mile radius of the base or any proposals that could affect the base's flight operations.
Fredie Carmichael is a staff writer for The Meridian Star. Call him at 693-1551, ext. 3228, or e-mail him at fcarmichael@themeridianstar.com.