STOP Unwanted Cell Phone Tower(s) Installations in North Caldwell Residential Neighborhood
by: North Caldwell Neighbors

 

Problem:

North Caldwell council is proposing a cell tower-building company to place a 150-foot-tall cell tower(s) in the middle of a residential street, Corner of Mountain Avenue/Arbor Road & 2 Skyline Dr.  This will thereby negatively impact the neighborhood resident's health and safety, devalue our homes and property, increase noise level disruptions and mar the aesthetics of our neighborhood. Most disturbing is that City of North Caldwell Zoning Code states in Residential areas structures must not exceed 32 feet.  SO WHY ARE THEY PROPOSING A TOWER THAT IS OVER 5 TIMES TALLER THAN THIS MAXIMUM?

 

Solution:

Consider placing this industrial cell tower in an industrial or commercial area or seek less negatively impactful solutions such as small cell towers similar to what other cities in our area do. 

Evidence Based Concerns:

1. Residential Location: The proposed sites for building the cell towers are in the heart of our residential neighborhood surrounded by families with children on a tree lined street.

2. Health and Safety Impacts on Community Residents: There is continuous and growing evidence of negative health impacts on humans and animals when exposed to cell tower emissions while living in close proximity to the site.

3. Devaluation of Homes and Property: A number of organizations have conducted studies that document the detrimental effects cell towers have on property values. Peer-reviewed studies find that property values decline by up to 20 percent near cell towers.

4. Noise Level Disruptions: Cell tower hum emitted from the tower's commercial equipment, i.e., cooling fans and generators, and the fact that maintenance could be performed on said equipment 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year in a residential community should not be allowed. This is commercial/industrial noise pollution and should be banned from residential neighborhoods.

5. Detrimental Aesthetics: Having a cell tower installed in a residential neighborhood is a "visual pollution." The 150 plus-foot tower will be an unsightly eyesore and a constant reminder the city does not place value in keeping Solon beautiful. A large steel structure jutting high above the trees and even higher from the houses in its vicinity will cast an ugly blemish on the neighborhood.

What can you do?

Please sign the petition to let North Caldwell Council know that the placement of a 150-foot cell-tower in the middle of a residential area is unacceptable.

Contact your North Caldwell Council person and let them know it is unacceptable to place a cell tower in a residential area.

See below for references:

What they say about RF radiation in general
Based on a review of studies published up until 2011, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified RF radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” based on limited evidence of a possible increase in risk for brain tumors among cell phone users, and inadequate evidence for other types of cancer. (For more information on the IARC classification system, see Known and Probable Human Carcinogens.)

https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/understanding-cancer-risk/known-and-probable-human-carcinogens.html

Your new neighbor, a cell tower, may impact the value of your home.

https://www.nationalbusinesspost.com/cell-towers-impact-home-values/

 

Mayor Joshua Raymond

City of North Caldwell

Subject: Opposition to Cell Tower(s) Construction in Our Neighborhood

Dear Mr. Raymond,

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed construction of a cell tower in our neighborhood. While I understand the need for improved communication infrastructure, I believe that the potential negative consequences, particularly the reduction of property values and health hazards, outweigh the benefits. I kindly request that you reconsider the location and alternative options for the proposed cell tower.

First and foremost, the installation of a cell tower(s) in close proximity to residential areas has been known to adversely affect property values. Numerous studies have shown that the presence of cell towers can significantly decrease the market value of nearby properties. According to research conducted by Dr. Nicolette M. Pach, a real estate appraiser specializing in cell tower impact studies, property values can decrease by up to 20% within a 1,500-foot radius of a cell tower. This reduction in property values can have a profound impact on homeowners who have invested their hard-earned savings into their homes.

Furthermore, there is a growing concern among residents regarding the potential health hazards associated with prolonged exposure to radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic radiation emitted by cell towers. While it is true that regulatory bodies such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) have established guidelines for safe RF exposure levels, it is essential to consider the cumulative effects of exposure from multiple sources, including existing cell towers, Wi-Fi networks, and other wireless devices.

A comprehensive review of scientific literature by the BioInitiative Working Group, an international group of scientists and public health experts, has raised serious concerns about the potential health risks associated with RF radiation. Their report highlights numerous studies indicating a possible link between prolonged RF exposure and adverse health effects, including increased risk of cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive problems. Although more research is needed to establish conclusive evidence, the precautionary principle suggests that we should exercise caution and prioritize the well-being of our community members.

Moreover, it is worth noting that several communities across the country have successfully opposed the construction of cell towers in residential areas due to similar concerns. By exploring alternative locations such as commercial or industrial zones, the interests of both telecommunication companies and residents can be better balanced. This approach ensures that the need for improved communication infrastructure is met while mitigating the potential negative impacts on property values and public health.

In light of the aforementioned reasons, I implore you to reconsider the proposed construction of the cell tower(s) in our neighborhood. I kindly request that you engage in open dialogue with the residents to address their concerns and explore alternative locations for the cell tower installation. By doing so, we can protect the well-being of our community, safeguard property values, and ensure a healthy and sustainable environment for all.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. 

Yours sincerely,

Concerned citizens and neighbors of North Caldwell, NJ