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Residents of Palenville are raising concerns over a proposed 150-foot cell phone tower on Malden Avenue, set to be operated by Verizon Wireless. The Catskill Planning Board held a public hearing on Tuesday (July 22) to allow community members to voice their opinions. While some residents fear the tower will be an eyesore and raise health concerns due to electromagnetic frequencies, the town attorney stated that radio frequency emissions cannot be considered when deciding on the tower's construction, as reported by the Daily Gazette.
The proposed tower is part of a broader trend in the region, with similar projects sparking debates in nearby areas. For example, in Ancram, residents are divided over a similar 150-foot tower proposal, with some citing the need for improved public safety and others concerned about its impact on the scenic landscape according to the New Pine Plains Herald.
Health concerns are also a significant issue, as highlighted by a case in Idaho where a resident sued Verizon Wireless, claiming a nearby cell tower caused health problems due to electromagnetic radiation reported by Children's Health Defense. Despite these concerns, federal law prohibits local authorities from regulating cell tower placements based on environmental effects of RF radiation, provided emissions comply with Federal Communications Commission guidelines.
The Catskill Planning Board will continue to evaluate the proposal, with further discussions expected in the coming weeks.