ExteNet Systems, on behalf of Verizon Wireless, applied to install 13 small cells in the Monterey Vista neighborhood and residents are fighting back, reported the Monterey Herald. Residents posted signs reading “No cell towers,” mailed a plethora of letters to local media outlets and came out in droves to oppose “next generation” cell towers during community meetings.
Residents in Monterey cite health concerns and question whether they’ll have issues similar to other California neighborhoods that already had small cells installed. For example, the community of Santa Rosa had 72 small cells installed and now unexpected buzzing noise and refrigerator-sized transmission equipment boxes are impacting aesthetics. Other Monterey residents cite concerns over the potential increased risk of wildfire from the extra equipment on the utility poles and potential loss of property values, loss of character, and degradation of the natural beauty and historic quality of the city.
In response to concerns by residents, Larry Beer, ExteNet Systems Director of External Relations noted “All ExteNet wireless infrastructure installations comply and are well-under radiofrequency emissions limits for safe exposure set by the Federal Communications Commission, which were developed through guidance and research from other health-focused organizations. According to the FCC, there is no scientific evidence to date that proves that wireless antennas or cellular phone usage can lead to cancer or a variety of other health effects, including headaches, dizziness or memory loss.”
ExteNet Systems does believe the small cells are necessary to increase signal coverage and capacity. “The central Monterey small cell installations are intended to offer residents utilizing Verizon Wireless service a much-improved cellular service across the community,” said Beer. “Cellular infrastructure is required to keep up with the increasing number of connected devices and sharing, texting and data-driven interactions of today, and preparing for the future.”
As for next steps, Todd Bennett, Senior Associate Planner for Monterey commented, “At this time, we are anticipating that the Planning Commission will review the proposed cellular facilities in late February or early March. The Planning Commission meeting will be open to the public, and the city encourages public comment.”
January 31, 2018
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