'A cell phone tower is not the solution'

I’m writing in protest of the cell phone tower planned for installation at the Pine Island firehouse.

Although there have been several community meetings in which I have attended, I feel that our voices and concerns are not being recognized and acknowledged.

My home lies behind the PI firehouse, and I’m directly affected by this plan.

I urge you to reconsider this plan based on several factors I’m outlining below.

Research shows that cell phone towers emit radiation emissions, linking to increases in cancer by 3 to 4 times (2007 Taraka Serrano). This research specifically states that people living within a quarter mile of a cell phone tower are most at risk for cancer.

The cell phone tower is planned in a central location (the middle of Pine Island), where centralized housing is positioned within this radius of risk. I have children, as do my neighbors, and am deeply concerned for the health and safety of my family and those families around me.

Not only is there a significant health factor involved in this decision-making process, but have you considered the long-term affects of this community?

Building a cell tower is always controversial no matter where it is placed.

However, right in the middle of a community is probably more detrimental than anywhere.

Once people see this in the community, it is an immediate “turn off” to prospective buyers. This community has already suffered a loss in the housing market, seen clearly by two schools (one of which is in Pine Island) being closed in the past few years. With this plan, the community will eventually move away and no matter how much revenue the tower brings, it won’t make up for the lack of community the fire house will serve. Eventually there won’t be anyone to pay the tax bill to continue the fire house. In turn, you are setting your own demise and the community of Pine Island which many of us are trying to rebuild after the economic downfall.

Although I can see how bringing a cell phone tower provides economic relief to this community, you need to stop thinking about immediate satisfaction (money-wise) and thinking how to rebuild a community long-term. A cell phone tower is not the solution. Building business and expanding neighborhoods will provide this community with more stable, healthier, and a more long-term solution to our economic issues.

Please consider the health and safety of the community first. It is in the best interest of not only our families here, but also the stability of this community.

Chris Miele
Pine Island