Longtime Miakka Local Opposes Proposed Cell Phone Tower Construction

OLD MIAKKA, Fla. — A resident of Sarasota County is raising her voice against a proposed telecommunication tower on the property of an Old Miakka church.

For Lindsey Leigh, the church represents community spirit.

“We have so many events here,” she stated. “It’s a landmark, a magical and sacred space.” She has lived in Old Miakka for six years, referring to her neighbors as family.

“We love it here. We relocated to escape the chaos,” Leigh added.

However, she’s alarmed by a proposed special exception petition presented to the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners, which she fears will disrupt the area’s “old Florida” ambiance.

Plans include a nearly 200-foot monopole telecommunication tower on the church property at 1620 Myakka Road, and Leigh believes this will alter the sense of place she cherishes.

“Getting emotional here, it hits close to home,” she remarked. “With families, livestock, and children surrounding us, it’s vital to preserve our community.”

On Monday, Leigh launched an online petition opposing the proposed tower, voicing worries about environmental consequences, aesthetic degradation, and potential health risks.

“From an aesthetic perspective, it undermines our efforts,” she emphasized. “We’ve fought hard to maintain our country lifestyle.”

While Leigh strives to protect the character of Old Miakka, she acknowledges that changes might be on the horizon.

A public hearing about the telecommunication tower is set for Tuesday at 9 a.m. at the Sarasota County Administration Center. Spectrum News has sought comments from the Sarasota County Commissioners but has yet to receive a response.

County representatives from the Planning and Development Services Department have indicated that the public hearing is customary for special exception petitions.