I've always cherished the comfort and community spirit of our Rocky Ford community, where my family and I have lived for years. But now, we are facing a new challenge that threatens the well-being of everyone here—a cell phone tower is set to be constructed dangerously close to some of our homes.

Numerous studies suggest that long-term exposure to radiation from cell phone towers may increase the risk of cancer and other health issues. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, part of the World Health Organization, classified radiofrequency electromagnetic fields as "possibly carcinogenic to humans." This is a risk that we simply can't overlook, not when it concerns the health of my children, elderly family members, and the entire community.

While mobile connectivity is vital, the choice of location for such infrastructure should be mindful of resident safety and health. There are alternative sites further from dense residential areas where the tower could be erected, avoiding potential health risks to our loved ones. It's about finding a balance between technological advancements and community welfare.

Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with existing medical conditions are more susceptible to environmental risks. Radiofrequency exposure over many years (cumulative exposure) may present greater risk, especially if living continuously near a tower.

Empirical studies show a measurable drop in property values for homes near visible wireless communication towers as well.

By signing this petition, you are standing with us against this decision and advocating for our right to a safe environment. Let us urge the local authorities to reconsider the current site proposal and engage with telecommunication companies to seek safer alternatives. Please join us in this fight to protect our community.

Commonly Reported Symptoms Among Residents Living Near Cell Phone Towers ☢️

🧠 Neurological and Cognitive Symptoms

• Headaches (frequent or chronic)
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Difficulty concentrating ("brain fog")
• Memory problems or forgetfulness
• Sleep disturbances or insomnia
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)

😰 Psychological and Emotional Symptoms

• Anxiety and restlessness
• Depression or mood swings 
• Irritability
• Fatigue (chronic tiredness even with rest)

❤️ Cardiovascular Symptoms

• Heart palpitations
• Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmias)
• Increased blood pressure
• Chest discomfort (non-cardiac)

🩻 Musculoskeletal Symptoms

• Muscle aches and joint pain 
• Nerve tingling or numbness

🌡️ Thermoregulatory / Other Physical Symptoms

• Sensations of warmth or burning in the skin
• Unexplained temperature sensitivity
• Skin rashes or itching
• Eye strain or visual disturbances

👶 Children’s Symptoms

• Behavioral changes (hyperactivity, irritability)
• Trouble sleeping
• Delayed development or attention issues (in extreme anecdotal cases) 

⚠️ Scientific Studies Supporting These Reports
Santini et al. 
Surveyed people living at varying distances from base stations. Found that those living within 100–300 meters reported significantly more symptoms, including:

• Headaches
• Sleep disturbances
• Irritability
• Depression
• Dizziness

Bortkiewicz et al. (Poland, 2004)
Residents living near mobile phone base stations (within 150 meters) reported: More frequent complaints of nervousness, sleep problems, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating compared to those living farther away. 

We might live in a rural zone, but we do not want to be apart of an experiment! Please keep towers in city zones. Let’s keep our community safe. Please join us by either signing this petition or being at the public hearing. We’ve been given very short notice.

Public Input:

Monday, September 29, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

Greater Lowndes Planning Commission 

Lowndes County South Health District Administrative Office

325 West Savannah Avenue, Valdosta, Georgia

Official Public Hearing: 

Tuesday, October 14, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

Lowndes County Board of Commissioners 

Lowndes County Judicial and Administrative Complex - Administrative Wing - Commission Chambers, 2nd Floor

327 North Ashley Street, Valdosta, Georgia