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Letter: Telus tower install north of Powell River requires input

In the Peak article [“ Proposal involves better internet and cellular service for Lund ,” October 11], the story presented indicates some benefits to the Lund area, but does not educate the reader on the potential negative impacts to the folks who wo
Powell River Peak letter

In the Peak article [“Proposal involves better internet and cellular service for Lund,” October 11], the story presented indicates some benefits to the Lund area, but does not educate the reader on the potential negative impacts to the folks who would have to deal with the close proximity to it.

These include: lighting requirements; sound pollution; ocean view impacts to several; property value decreases; use and enjoyment constraints to others; potential health effects; anxiety for the neighborhood; and once installed it is required to be considered for all future applicants and becomes a telecom hub.

Although the issue was presented to the qathet Regional District (qRD) Planning Committee, with no policy, the process is approved by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. The approval requirements are minimal, at best. Notify within 105 metres, notify the qRD and receive comments with no requirement to take any action. This is public consultation?

The presenter is quoted as saying that the tower “is just south of Lund,” yet we live in the heart of the community. He was accurate that it would be in close proximity to homes in the area.

As stated, the coverage limitations mean more towers to come using this approach to service delivery instead of fibre optics.

The attempt to “blend in” the tower will not be achievable among our homes.

Compliance with Health Canada’s Safety Code 6 was designed for establishing worker exposure limits at federal institutions, not 24/7 around residents.

A Royal Society of Canada study recommended further research is required for causal relationships with cancers and in-vitro genetic effects.

We do not accept being used as case studies years from now.

Good to hear they are happy to have some community input into the project. Problem is, we have to organize it, educate people and come up with the solutions. And we will.

The desire for improved service is well understood but we cannot accept an installation of this impact in this location.

Jason Lennox, chair
Concerned Citizens of Lund