“Protect Our Health,” Say Bethesda Residents in Small Cell Pushback

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Montgomery County residents concerned over possible exposure to radiation from small cell infrastructure, voiced their opposition during a public hearing, reported Bethesda Magazine.

The proposed small cells are expected to replace utility poles, or be attached to existing ones, and will need to be at least 22 feet tall, and 30 feet from any existing building, according to the latest version of the proposed zoning text amendment by the County Council.

The group of 44 residents spoke out about what they perceived as the potentially hazardous health consequences, citing studies that brain cancer, depression and suicide are linked to microwave radiation from towers. 

Bethesda Magazine reported The American Cancer Society notes on its website, that the level of radiation exposure from such cell towers is thousands of times less than the limits set by the FCC, the Environmental Protection Agency and other regulatory agencies.

Edward Donohue, a representative from T-Mobile, who spoke in favor of the tower, noted, “The small cells are necessary in order to keep up with the 911 requirements.”

Federal courts have determined that localities can’t make telecommunications decisions based on health concerns, council member Tom Hucker said in an interview. But the council is likely to revisit other practical issues with the towers, such as the required distance from homes at a committee meeting early next month, reported Bethesda Magazine.

“The reason why we’re at the cutting edge of crafting an ordinance is that companies are moving their networks here,” Council President Hans Riemer said.

September 28, 2018