Public commentator opposes wireless installation at 121 Parker Avenue; hearing continued

The Zoning Board of Appeals opened the public hearing for 121 Parker Avenue on May 13 and continued it to the June 10 meeting after public comment from a resident who said the proposal appears to include a wireless facility.

Marta Knapp, who identified herself as a resident of 10 South Clinton Street, said she frequently speaks against cell towers and described health and visual concerns. Knapp told the board she lives in an area she called “the Bermuda Triangle of cell phone towers” and said the proposed facility — which she described as “over 100 feet tall” and associated with Verizon Wireless — would add to what she called “radio frequency radiation load.” She told the board: “I often speak against cell phone towers, which is what this really is, a cell tower application, Verizon Wireless. It's over 100 feet tall, causes all kinds of health problems, and also the view shed of the walkway ... It's very ugly.”

The board noted the item was advertised as a public hearing and adjourned the matter to the June 10 meeting so speakers may return. No formal action was taken on May 13; the board recorded the public hearing continuation so the applicant can provide any additional requested materials and the public can speak again at the next meeting.