Plumas County Residents Challenge Verizon's Tower Plans Over Tribal Burial Ground Concerns

During the recent Board of Supervisors meeting in Plumas County, significant concerns were raised regarding the impact of wireless technology installations on local communities, particularly in relation to a controversial cell tower project. Community members voiced strong opposition to the actions of Verizon and Sierra Pacific, accusing them of disrespecting a tribal burial ground and ignoring the views of local residents.

The discussion highlighted a broader issue surrounding the county's telecommunications ordinance, originally adopted in January 2019. Critics argued that the ordinance favored corporate interests over community safety and well-being. They pointed out that public input had been largely disregarded during the ordinance's development, which allowed for exemptions that could lead to detrimental outcomes for residents, such as reduced property values and health risks associated with wireless radiation.

Key demands from the community included stricter regulations on cell tower heights, mandatory notifications for neighbors, and the prioritization of safer wired technologies over wireless options. Residents expressed frustration that their suggestions for amendments to the ordinance had been ignored, which they believe has led to the current predicament where construction is proceeding without adequate oversight or community consultation.

The urgency of the situation was underscored by calls for immediate action to halt the ongoing project until the ordinance can be revised to better protect the interests of Plumas County residents. As the meeting concluded, the community's resolve to advocate for their rights and safety was clear, signaling a potential shift in the dialogue between local government and its constituents regarding telecommunications infrastructure.