2024-09-16 Donna Thompson Testimony #4 -Oppose

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From:sharkgss To:LPCtestimony Cc:Evans, Cynthia F.W.; Kimball, Heather; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt Subject:OPPOSE ITEM #4 Planning Director"s Ordinance Date:Monday, September 16, 2024 12:48:16 PM Aloha, I am strongly opposed to Item #4 regarding Planning Director's ordinance to amend Chapter 25 (Zoning), Article 2, Article 4, Article 5, and Article 7 of the Hawai‘i County Code 1983 (2016 Edition, as amended) relating to telecommunication antennas and towers. The purpose is to remove the requirement for a use permit to establish telecommunication antennas and towers in certain zoning districts, add application requirements, and amend standards for the establishment of telecommunication antennas and towers." This amendment gives too much power to Planning Department and Telecom without the oversight of the community, rushes the approval process to only 30 days, and has no provisions to protect lifeforms against electromagnetic frequencies (EMF's) that have been proven to degrade overall health. I personally have been affected by the increase of EMF infrastructure over the last 2 decades and carry a TriField Meter to measure frequencies. Ecological Impacts of Cell Tower Radiation on Biota Increased cancer risk: Some studies suggest that exposure to radiofrequency (RF) radiation from cell towers may increase the risk of cancer, particularly for children and adolescents. Genetic damage and reproductive issues: Research has documented genetic damage and changes to the reproductive system in animals exposed to RF radiation. Neurological and cognitive effects: Some studies have reported associations between RF radiation exposure and neurological and cognitive effects, such as headaches, sleep issues, and memory deficits. Increased RF radiation exposure: Cell towers emit RF radiation, which can increase daily exposure levels, particularly for individuals living or working near these structures. Children, due to their smaller size and developing bodies, may be more vulnerable to RF radiation absorption and potential health effects. Distance and exposure levels: The distance between a cell tower and an individual, as well as the power output of the tower, can affect exposure levels.