NEWPORT, Vt. (AP) – Verizon will be allowed to temporarily install a cell antenna inside the St. Mary Star of the Sea Church tower for a special visual demonstration at an upcoming public meeting, officials said.

“I am going to convene another look at St. Mary’s tower,” said Charles Gallagher, executive coordinator for the District 7 Environmental Commission in St. Johnsbury, which handles Act 250 permit requests. “We will witness antennas as installed and take testimony.”

Some local residents are fighting in Environmental Court a city permit allowing the cellular communication equipment. They are opposed to the project for aesthetic and health reasons.

The Catholic Diocese signed a lease with Verizon Wireless, a decision supported by the local church council.

Cellular companies are encouraged to install equipment in existing buildings and towers in Vermont to avoid building new ones.

The district environmental commission’s staff had intended to treat the antenna plan as a minor application, without hearings and testimony. But neighbors weren’t notified properly by the state about the permit application, and complained about the minor ruling.

In June, Gallagher’s co-worker Diana Peduzzi ruled that the antenna plan required a full-blown Act 250 hearing before Verizon could get a permit.

Verizon has asked for reconsideration of her opinion, and Gallagher has agreed to look at their appeal. The special meeting for the visual demonstration should be announced soon, he said.