Proposed Lakeview cellphone tower creating concern among residents

A proposed cell tower in Lakeview has area residents upset, trying to stop it because they think it's too close to schools and homes.

Several Lakeview residents are voicing their concerns about a proposed cell tower that may be built in the southwest neighbourhood.

Telus is hoping to construct a 35-metre shrouded monopole with a one-meter lightening rod on top, in the northwest corner of Lakeview United Church at 3023 63 Ave. S.W.

Telus says the new cellphone tower would provide “faster and more reliable wireless cell and internet service” to the community.

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“It will also enhance access to emergency services and improve public safety by ensuring that first responders can communicate more quickly and effectively in critical situations,” Telus said in a statement.

The company sent homeowners within a 300-metre radius of the proposed tower an information package on Jan. 23.

An open house was then held at the Earl Grey Golf Club on Feb. 13, and feedback was due by Feb. 22.

The proposal has prompted concerns among residents like William Lacey, who launched an online petition in opposition.

“The lack of sufficient local consultation and the potential for aesthetic disruption, property devaluation and public safety hazards have left [me] and many of my neighbours concerned,” Lacey said.

The online petition had more than 950 signatures as of Friday morning.

A hard-copy petition is also available at the Lakeview Community Association.

Telus says a “number of criteria” are considered when selecting tower sites.

“This location and design were chosen to maximize network coverage in the surrounding area,” Telus explained.

Property owners like Lakeview United Church are usually paid a percentage of the revenue generated by the cell tower, which can range anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars per month.

Lakeview United Church declined to comment saying, “unfortunately, we are unable to comment on this matter as Telus handles all comments and inquiries at this time.”

Cell towers are a federally regulated industry.

The city can make recommendations, but it’s ultimately out of their control.

“I recognize that the increasing volume and use of wireless devices means more towers are needed to provide coverage. I also understand resident frustrations about cell tower placements,” area councillor Kourtney Penner said.

“It’s a double-edged sword in cities where locations are limited on who is willing to host a tower which will provide the needed coverage.”

The city’s Telecommunications Antenna Structures Siting Protocols discourages cell tower locations that are closer than 100 metres to schools.

It’s also recommended a tower 31 to 45 metres tall be at least 100 metres away from residences.

This proposed cell tower location is on the opposite side of the street from townhouses, around 90 metres from an elementary school and around 150 metres from a junior high school.

“The concern is if the city approves this project, then it really sets a dangerous precedent for other communities,” said Catherine Cooke, Lakeview Community Association president.

“The guidelines are there to follow, and if they’re not being enforced, then it’s really going to erode public trust.”

Once a formal application is submitted by Telus, the submission is circulated to the ward councillor and the local community association for 21 days.

During this time, residents are invited to provide feedback on the proposal.

The city will then review the proposal.

“While the city makes recommendations about placement the approving authority is ultimately at the federal level as telecommunications infrastructure is a federally regulated industry,” Penner said.