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From:Roni Ben-David <br />To:publiccomment <br />Cc:Council-Christopher Sturken <br />Subject:Update our city"s telecom ordinance <br />Date:Sunday, September 8, 2024 9:39:46 PM <br />Dear Redwood City Council, <br />Since September 2023, Crown Castle, a site developer (working for <br />telecom companies like Verizon), has submitted dozens of applications <br />to install “small cell facilities” – antennas on city-owned street lights <br />and utility poles in the public right of way -- largely in front of homes in <br />residential areas. I know that many of my neighbors and I are confused <br />and frustrated about the current process of approving those applications -- <br />it's not clear why they are being installed (since they offer coverage that <br />is redundant to wireless broadband home internet.) Moreover, these <br />small cell facilities lower property value. <br />Significantly, Federal law entitles wireless facilities to later expand to 10' <br />in height and width by 10' if other carriers want to "co-locate" -- <br />even if those modifications violate the City's zoning rules or the terms of <br />the existing permit. This is also deeply concerning to residents as it will <br />harm their property value (which is how generational wealth can be <br />passed on.) <br />When residents like me give feedback to the Civil Engineer that we don't <br />want the facility, we are told that his "hands are tied" because he has to <br />approve every completed application, regardless of residents' desires. <br />Some other California cities (especially wealthier communities) require <br />the wireless applicant to first demonstrate a “gap in <br />coverage” when applying to install in residential areas. <br />Please show your dedication to create a telecom policy that restricts <br />facilities in areas where people don't want them. <br />Sincerely, <br />Roni Ben-David <br />Grand St, Redwood City