Expressing a wish to gather feedback from the surrounding community, the Lakewood Bible Fellowship Church held a meeting to discuss its plans to erect a cell tower on their property. The Lake Charles, LA gathering drew in many residents who were not supportive of the church’s plans. Vertical Bridge representative, Tom Holiman, was at the meeting to answer questions about what a 120-foot AT&T cell tower would mean for the neighborhood. American Press reported on the conversations that took place that evening.
The 54 neighbors who attended the meeting expressed concerns about the visual impact, property values, and phantom health issues that could be influenced by the appearance of a tower. “I have a handicapped son who has grand mal seizures. Blinking tower lights will set him off,” said one attendee. “Hurricanes came and knocked down all our trees. This cell tower, if it is built, is going to knock us back 20 years,” said another. “Studies show 5G interferes with airplanes and they fly right over this place,” fretted a third person.
Holiman attempted to address concerns, starting with a reassurance that the tower plans did not include flashing lights. He also pointed out that everyone would benefit from greater connectivity, which he said was desired by people in the area. He agreed that, yes, the church itself would benefit, but was a responsible tenant and neighbor. Additionally, he said, “Health effects. Everyone is always concerned about that. The FCC has had study after study after study about it. Long story short, it’s a non-issue.”
“All your explanations are fine,” resident Frank LaFaso said, “But I don’t want to hear any more. We don’t want the tower.”
Lakewood Bible Fellowship operations director, Jon Helmer, said he was disappointed by the negativity encountered at the meeting, but appreciated that people felt free to express themselves. “The church is not trying to hide anything from anyone,” he told the Press, “That’s why we opened up the church tonight, to find out how people felt. Unless you’re willing to tell us how you feel, we don’t know.”
Instead of proceeding to the Calcasieu Parish Planning and Zoning Board planned for March 22, the cell tower proposal had been placed on hold with the intention to reintroduce it at another time.
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