The Newton County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 in favor of a new, 150-foot cell tower at 10816 Old Atlanta Highway Tuesday evening.

The cell tower was previously approved in September but faced challenges because it was less than three times its height from several homes in violation of residential zoning regulations. The commissioners, with the exception of Commissioner John Douglas, who voted against it, approved a variance to allow the tower after recieving assurance from the county attorney's office that doing so would not set an easily adaptable precedent.

The tower, which will be constructed by 52Eighty LLC, will boost 4G wireless service in the area. The location was chosen because of its proximity to existing fiberoptic lines.

Commenting on the tower, Commissioner Levie Maddox said better coverage would improve business and public safety in the area and "upgrade" the community.