Resident opposes cell-tower plan; assembly hears update on bear-resistant trash-can grant prospects

During the public-comment period, resident Dave Beebe spoke in opposition to a proposed cell tower near residential areas, raising concerns about health effects, visual impacts and what he characterized as the FCC's failure to update EMF safety emission standards. The minutes record Beebe spoke "in opposition to the proposed cell tower near residential areas, citing health concerns, visual impacts, and the FCC's failure to update EMF safety emission standards."

Later in the meeting Assembly Member James Valentine asked Public Works Director Marohl for an update on efforts to obtain bear-resistant trash cans. Marohl reported that Defenders of Wildlife had contacted the borough about a potential grant, that approximately 300 cans would be needed at an estimated cost of about $100,000 before shipping, and that available grant funding was insufficient to purchase a meaningful number of cans. Marohl also said bear straps are available at no charge to residents with a borough trash account, with a limited supply at the baler.