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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-09-03 Donna Thompson Testimony -Oppose From:sharkgss To:WPCtestimony Cc:Evans, Cynthia F.W.; Kanealii-Kleinfelder, Matt; Kimball, Heather Subject:Donna Thompson OPPOSE Item #8 Regarding telecommunication towers and antennas - Support Bill 194 Date:Tuesday, September 3, 2024 12:29:51 PM Aloha, I recently discovered "the Planning Director has initiated an 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." I strongly oppose item 8 because this proposal is unacceptable and far too sympathetic to the telecommunications industry without any protection for our community. There most certainly should be a permitting process for installation of cell towers and antennas due to the electromagnetic pollution these towers emit. Public input is critical during the permitting process due to scientifically proven health side effects on all life as a direct result of these devices that emit electromagnetic frequencies that are disruptive to cellular function. For over 15 years I have noticed increased side effects within certain distance to these towers and carry a TriField Meter to measure electromagnetic and microwave field strength. Over the years I have witnessed very high levels being emitted from these towers that are often placed close to residences and business (for instance the tower near the corner of Hawaii belt Rd and Pakalana St in Honokaa). 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. From The Invisible Rainbow pages 364-365 by Arthur Firstenberg "The suddenness and simultaneity of aspen decline through out Colorado, which began precisely in 2004, has been a source of wonder and despair to all who love and miss the vivid fall colors of these striking trees. In just three years, from 2003 to 2006, the area of aspen damage increased from 12,000 acres to 140,000 acres. Aspen mortality in the national forests rose three to sevenfold, with some stands losing 60 percent of these trees". There is a reason "The State of Colorado operates a sophisticated public safety communications network, called the Digital Trunked Radio System, consisting of 203 tall radio towers whose transmissions cover every square inch in of the state. They are heavily used by police, firefighters, park rangers, emergency medical service providers, schools, hospitals, and a wide variety of other municipal, state, federal, and tribal officials. Between 1998 and 2000 the pilot phase of the system, covering the Denver metro area, was built and tested. In 2001 and 2002, radio towers were built throughout northeastern and southeastern Colorado and the eastern plains. And in 2004, 2004, and 2005, the system invaded the western, mountainous part of the state: aspen territory." "At times," says Alfonso Balmori, "I compare what is occurring to a collective ritual of suicide in slow motion." But he does not think it can continue indefinitely. "I don't know when, he continues, "but there will come a day of realization, when society will awaken to the serious problem of electromagnetic contamination and its dangerous effects on birds, frogs, bees, trees, and all other living beings, including ourselves." I support Council Member Cindy Evans' proposed telecommunications ordinance Bill 194 which offers a more balanced approach with clear, attainable permit requirements. However I suggest and amendment with warnings and safe distances need to be clearly indicated for all devices installed with recommendations for non-biased scientific studies. Mahalo, Donna Thompson Kamuela, HI Sent with Proton Mail secure email.