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Commission continues contested AT&T proposal at Bureau of Jewish Education after broad public opposition
Summary
After extensive public testimony from parents, teachers, scientists and community leaders opposing AT&T’s proposal to install antennas on the Bureau of Jewish Education building adjacent to Lisa Kaptner Hebrew Academy, the Planning Commission continued the hearing to Dec. 8 to allow further consultation between the bureau, the school and AT&T and for follow‑up technical information.
The Planning Commission on Nov. 3 continued a highly contested conditional use authorization for AT&T to install six antennas concealed in chimneys on the Bureau of Jewish Education building at 601 Fourteenth Avenue, setting a new hearing date for Dec. 8 and keeping the public hearing record open.
The meeting drew a large turnout from parents, school leaders, students, medical professionals and community advocates who expressed fear and asked commissioners to deny the permit or postpone action until more independent data were available. Central concerns raised in public comment included proximity of antennas to preschool and kindergarten classrooms (speakers cited measurements around 35 feet from play areas and windows), requests for independent verification of coverage and capacity claims, and worries about backup batteries and earthquake safety for equipment placed in older buildings.
A number of technical speakers, including engineers and retired physicists, urged caution and said more independent analysis was needed. The school’s secular principal, Catherine Schopp, and Rabbi Lipner (founder/principal) said many parents were prepared to withdraw children if the antennas were installed, and several student speakers told the commission the prospect had terrified families and would threaten the school’s enrollment and finances.
Representatives of the Bureau of Jewish Education (CEO David Waxberg) told commissioners the organization had hosted two antennas at the site for 14 years, said the bureau was researching independent expert opinions, and denied any intent to harm the school; AT&T representatives presented an alternative‑site analysis and RF exposure reports included in the packet and reiterated offers to perform RF readings and community outreach.
Commissioners pressed for better coordination between the Bureau and the school and for independent verification where appropriate. Several commissioners emphasized that legal authority over RF exposure standards rests with the Federal Communications Commission and that the Department of Public Health conducts health evaluations; nonetheless the commission framed local deliberations around design compatibility, safety of battery/equipment placement (DBI review), notice, and whether the applicant had adequately engaged the affected institution.
Commissioner Miguel moved to continue the item to Dec. 8 so the Bureau of Jewish Education, the school and AT&T could pursue further discussions and provide additional technical and safety information; the motion passed unanimously. The public hearing remains open and staff will accept additional materials for the record.
