Plans are afoot to erect a 150-foot lattice cell tower on farmer Matthew Hull’s property, a plan that has generated mixed opinions from the residents of Enosburgh, VT. As VT Digger reports, supporters favor the improved service that would make it easier to contact first responders. Detractors have expressed worries about the appearance of the tower, and how they could be facing phantom health concerns. The American Cancer Society contends that no radiation danger is present, though opponents were not swayed by evidence.
Current plans would place the tower on an 80-ft by 80-ft compound consisting of crushed stone and concrete surrounded by a 8-ft tall chain link fence. The site would also house an equipment shed. Industrial Tower and Wireless has been engaged to helm the project. Although the primary aim of the new tower is to bolster two-way radio communications, it could also be adapted to include antennas for cell phone transmissions. The tower, a 140-ft lattice structure, will feature omni directional antennas top mounted bringing the total height to 153-ft AGL.
Zoning rules do not come into play in this situation, says the host, though town officials are still reviewing the proposal before granting their approval. The location off Bordoville Road would be completely located on private property, though it may be visible to some neighbors. While some questioned the placement of the cell tower, others said they preferred a reliable connection to emergency services over the threat of phantom health concerns or a nebulous encroachment on the historic character of the vista.
“We strongly feel that this project is an important step in bringing equity and opportunities, and greatly needed infrastructure, to and within our corner of the community,” said resident Katherine Bennett at a recent town meeting. “This tower will be a step towards bridging the gap.”
“We are encouraged by the residents who support this project and recognize that there is a serious public safety issue because of the lack or reliable wireless service in this area of town,” said Kevin Delaney, RF Engineering and Regulator Compliance Manager for Industrial. “We also recognize that some people are concerned about health issues but we have over 30 years of actual field measurement data for other towers that we operate that supports RF emissions are safe. The proposed tower is well below the FCC guidelines for RF emissions.”
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