The Current Opposition Status (February 25, 2026) Zoning and Petitions: Community members have launched multiple Change.org petitions to discourage the 155-foot cell tower's placement on the Riverside property in SW Fishers. Upcoming Zoning Meeting: A key Zoning Board Meeting was scheduled for January 28, 2026, at Fishers City Hall; the petition was pulled by Verizon and Hamilton SE school board. Community leaders are preparing for when the proposal is reapplied to the board pushed by Hamilton SE School Board and Superintendent Mapes. Environmental & Community Impact: The site is a critical wildlife and riparian corridor along the White River. Residents have raised concerns about the tower's proximity to: -The Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve. -The Oak Bridge connecting Fishers and Carmel. And the 106 Trail. -Local youth athletic complexes and popular kayaking and fishing spots on the White river -A popular walking and running path for the community -Three major park corridors for Fishers and Carmel along the river Verizon’s Site Plan Revisions Construction Requirements: New safety specifications require a 20-foot wide GRAVEL road and an expanded turnaround for emergency vehicles on the southern edge of the property. Within feet of homes and the river. (Identified specification issue was identified by our team by the way not the HSE school board) 🤦🏽‍♀️ Habitat Destruction: This expansion threatens a rain garden essential for stormwater runoff and a border of pine trees that currently buffers the school's tennis courts and football field from nearby residents. And additional habitat destruction within 66 feet of the River. School Board & Leadership Context Superintendent & Board: Superintendent Patrick Mapes and the HSE School Board have faced intense scrutiny over the tower and other recent decisions, including cutting teachers pay, and a contentious redistricting plan finalized in December 2025. Public Sentiment: There is growing momentum for new board leadership following several high-profile clashes with parents and teachers regarding transparency and public comment rules. Future Referendum: HSE is considering an early referendum renewal in 2026 to address funding gaps, which may further intensify the political climate surrounding board elections. Next Steps for Community Action Writing Campaign: Organizers are initiating a direct writing and phone campaign targeting the HSE Board of Trustees. Zoning Readiness: Residents are being urged to "stay connected" and ready to attend future Fishers City Council or Zoning meetings as the application process evolves. Preservation Advocacy: Supporters are framing the fight around the legacy of the Nonie Werbe Krauss Nature Preserve and the White River to protect the sanctuary from urban intrusion. Stay connected and help us protect SW Fishers 🫶🏻