Crown Castle defends wireless facility approval against local resident appeals

The recent Sustainability & Infrastructure Commission meeting in San Mateo highlighted significant community concerns regarding a proposed wireless facility, particularly its impact on local residents and the need for clearer communication.

During the meeting, a resident voiced frustrations over inconsistencies in the city’s decision-making process, specifically referencing previous appeals related to variances for wireless infrastructure. The resident emphasized that many community members, particularly those who are Spanish-speaking, were unaware of the project until informed by local advocates. This lack of awareness was attributed to notifications that were perceived as spam, leading to missed opportunities for public engagement. The resident urged the commission to uphold an appeal against the wireless facility, citing the proximity to a daycare center and the potential risks to children playing nearby.

In response, the applicant, Crown Castle, defended their application, asserting that they followed all prescribed processes and addressed previous noncompliance issues. They highlighted that the project meets the city’s design standards and is essential for improving wireless coverage in the area. The applicant expressed their commitment to working with the city and the community, despite the challenges faced during the approval process.

The discussions underscored the importance of effective communication between the city and its residents, especially in diverse communities where language barriers can hinder public participation. As the commission moves forward, addressing these concerns will be crucial in fostering trust and ensuring that community voices are heard in future infrastructure decisions.