Residents of Lake Encino and the surrounding community have significant concerns regarding the proposed installation of a 60-foot wireless telecommunications facility at the Encino Lake Tennis Club (17902 W. Lake Vista Drive).

As proposed, the project would place a large monopole structure (disguised as a tree), along with associated ground equipment and backup power systems, within HOA-controlled common area in close proximity to surrounding homes, in a designated Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.

While we recognize the importance of reliable wireless service, we do not believe this residential location is appropriate for infrastructure of this scale, particularly given the site-specific conditions.

A primary concern is fire safety. This location sits within a high-risk wildfire area where recent fire activity has reached nearby ridgelines and surrounding terrain. The proposal includes ground equipment, standby generators, and potential battery systems, all of which introduce additional considerations related to fire risk, containment, access, and emergency response in an already vulnerable environment. These are not theoretical concerns and require careful, site-specific evaluation.

Additional concerns include the placement of a 60-foot structure within a residential neighborhood, visual and environmental impacts, close proximity to homes, and the long-term implications of future co-location, which could increase the overall intensity of the site over time.

There are also questions regarding the accuracy and completeness of certain materials presented to date, including mapping, topography, and visibility assumptions. These issues underscore the need for independently verified, site-specific data before any conclusions are drawn.

This proposal is currently in the City of Los Angeles discretionary review process. A recent continuance has been granted to allow for further evaluation by the City, relevant agencies including the Fire Department, and the community.

We are asking that this additional time be used to ensure a thorough, transparent review based on complete, accurate, and independently verified information, including full consideration of fire safety, site suitability, and whether this represents the least impactful feasible location.

We respectfully ask the HOA Board to reconsider pursuing this project at this location, Verizon to evaluate alternative sites better suited for this type of infrastructure, and City officials to carefully assess the site-specific risks and impacts before making any determination.

This petition is intended to reflect community concerns and ensure that residents’ voices are clearly part of the record before any decision is made.

If you share these concerns, please consider signing and sharing this petition.