Dear Latrobe Community Members,
We are reaching out to make you aware of a recent notification residents
received from the Community Development Services regarding an AT&T cell tower
that is being proposed to be installed on Dragon Point. It is our view that
any marginal improvements in cell service are far outweighed by a number of
negative factors that impact all of us neighbors in the area.
The most obvious issue will be the disruption of the scenery and skyline to the
immediate neighbors and those with views of the Dragon Point ridge by a 120 to
160 ft tower. The views and skyline are key components to the area and play a
part in the scenic and rural setting we all chose for our families. This will
likely increase the value of the property that contains cell tower but at the
expense of surrounding neighbors.
However, beyond the qualitative negatives to the appearance is the much larger
and more pressing issue of potential health hazards. Electromagnetic
frequencies and their impact on the long term health of all local residents
should be a major consideration. Studies are inconclusive in proving that cell
towers pose no threat to local residents mostly because technology and the use
of these towers are relatively new and with the use increasing exponentially
any data that has been analyzed in the past is not relevant to current usage
and exposures. There have been studies in Germany and Israel show that cancer
rates are substantially higher for those in close proximity to these towers.
Below are a couple articles and studies that can give you some information as
to why we should be concerned about long term impacts of increased exposure to
electromagnetic fields and radiofrequency radiation.
http://it-takes-time.com/2015/09/22/health-effects-of-cell-towers/
http://www.bioinitiative.org/
It is important to know that we are not arguing against cell phones or assume
that it is possible to escape electromagnetic fields or radiofrequency
radiation; however, we question the need for additional towers in the area.
There are already two other towers on Throttle Road and Victoria Road so we are
arguing against putting another tower in close proximity to the families,
schools, and residences of many individuals who have not had any say to this
point, even though it may impact them financially through lower property
values, and most importantly from a long term health perspective.
In terms of actions, we are meeting with the planning commissioner on Monday to
share our concerns and will be sending out a petition to sign shortly after if
you should wish to participate. I have attached a copy of the letter we
received from the Planning and Building department for your reference. The most
important date will be the public hearing held at Building C Hearing Room, 2850
Fairlane Court, Placerville on February 8, 2018 at 8:30 a.m.
Thanks for your consideration and thought around this matter as your support is
very important to all of the immediate neighbors.
Brad Nicholson
