Residents press Redwood City for clearer notice and appeal process on small-cell 5G tower applications

During public comment Council meeting attendees raised concerns about the city's process for small-cell 5G wireless facilities. Jana Jacobs and other residents said Crown Castle has submitted dozens of applications to place small cell installations in neighborhoods near schools, parks and homes and that official notification to nearby residents has been inadequate.

Jana Jacobs told council she and neighbors often learn of applications through unsolicited mail or recycling rather than a clear city or carrier notice. Martin Elliott and Ronnie Vandavid echoed concerns about inadequate notification, the city's permissive ordinance and the potential for installations near a small private school and other sensitive sites. Vandavid described families withdrawing students from a small school after a contractor's equipment was found atop a nearby building and a third-party assessment raised exposure concerns.

Councilmembers acknowledged the concerns and said city staff and the new city manager have begun conversations with residents and the applicant. Councilmembers encouraged residents to use available meetings with staff and noted the appeals process and permit review are part of the planning framework. The city clerk reminded speakers that public comment is limited to the council's subject-matter jurisdiction and that written comments are retained in the meeting record.