UPDATE Eager to have Verizon relocate a cell tower to someone else’s backyard, the Pittsfield, MA Board of Health has issued a challenge to the telco. According to the Berkshire Eagle, the Board of Health will issue a cease and desist order to shut down the tower if Verizon does not agree to discuss removing or relocating the 115-foot monopole.
Before construction even began in 2020, neighbors complained about the visual impact of a cell tower in their community. Once the tower was erected, these same neighbors were among the first to claim that their health was deteriorating because of the proximity of the tower. Despite ongoing feedback from the World Health Organization that cell towers do not pose a health risk, the tale of beleaguered townsfolk taking on a big corporation has gathered public support.
“It’s the purview of the board to be proactive in identifying health risks and protecting the public health as much as we possibly can,” stated Board Chair, Bobbi Orsi. “I feel like we have an obligation, even though it’s a long shot.” Orsi admitted to the Berkshire Eagle that she has been swayed by the ongoing complaints from local residents.
The Board’s ultimatum gives Verizon a two week deadline to respond to the demand to come to the table to talk.
There is no hard evidence establishing a cause and effect between the Pittsfield cell tower and maladies reported by local residents. However, there is a feeling in town that “something” should be done and targeting the cell tower would provide some symbolic relief, according to the account. Former resident, Gareth Coco, captured this sentiment when he said, “You have a group of people sitting here behind you who’ve called in, they’ve been here, they’ve called the state, they’re called the city over reporting injuries and health problems. And yet here we are, still nothing done. Today is the day you make it right.”
Verizon’s response is pending.
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