WHITE RIVER JUNCTION — Vermont’s Public Service Department is seeking input on its siting process for telecommunications facilities, which includes equipment such as telephone poles and cell towers, in an effort to increase and streamline public engagement.

Based on approval from the state’s Public Utilities Commission, the location of similar equipment has been contentious in the past. A cell tower planned for Chelsea led to robust opposition from residents over environmental and aesthetic concerns, as well as a series of scrapped plans from coverage-provider AT&T.

Proponents say expanding cell coverage is crucial for emergency services and economic development in areas that are out of range.

“The goal (of gaining feedback) is to ensure that the siting of telecommunications facilities is conducted in a manner that is transparent, fair, and responsive to the needs of the community while also considering the development and expansion of telecommunications infrastructure in the state,” a news release from the department stated.

Those interested can sign up to receive further updates and provide feedback online at: https://tinyurl.com/3ucakmf7.