A 30-foot tall cell tower may be appreciated by most Chino Hills residents for better coverage but neighbors in the northern portion of the city are not so happy.
They came out in force to Tuesday’s Chino Hills Planning Commission meeting to protest an AT&T tower proposed next to the Stagecoach Trail, 200 feet north of Wandering Ridge Road and 1,000 feet south of Rock Springs Drive.
The tower will be disguised as a weathered water tank to blend in with the rural ambiance of the sloping hillsides.
Ten speakers, including Louis Korcok shown in photo, were angry about the location and many brought up potential health concerns from exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) emanating from cell towers.
Easie Williams, who lives on Wandering Ridge Road, said he has walked the hills and flatlands for 35 years.
“There are a lot of people who are concerned about illness,” he said. “I was told nothing would be built on the hillside. I hope the city doesn’t turn its back on its people,” he said.
Commissioner Jerry Blum said the Planning Commission has reviewed countless health studies over the years regarding EMF.
He said if a resident could produce a factual report EMF or if somebody has an American Cancer Society study in hand, the commission cannot deny the project if it meets every state, federal and city code relative to its use.
Smartlink representative Jermaine Taylor said he understands the concerns expressed by residents but “ninety percent of the people in this room have cell phones.” He said he is not aware of any city, county, or agency that has denied a cell site for health reasons. Mr. Taylor said FirstNet, a nationwide communications platform built by AT & T for first responders depends on major wireless facilities to operate and expand the reach of its service.
The item will appear on Tuesday’s Chino Hills City Council agenda under “Planning Commission Matters.” At least two members of the council are needed to request a review of the project. If the council agrees, the matter will be presented for review at a future council meeting.
(1) comment
Yeah, health problems from 5G have been investigated throughly and they are safe.
The American Cancer Society is so owned by Pharma. You expect THEM to contribute even if they did know?
Not likely.
Good duck folks, Stakeholder Capitalism is in charge now.
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