Residents urge stricter telecom rules, cite health and inspection gaps in draft code

Several residents used the public-hearing period to press the board for tighter telecommunications safeguards in the draft zoning code. One commenter noted the proposal limits tower height to 100 feet but expressed concern that siting rules (distance equal to tower height) could still allow towers close to residential districts. The commenter said the draft lacks requirements for independent electrical and radiation inspections, annual recertification, bonds to cover damages, indemnity protections for the village, and fines or penalties that would lead to termination of siting privileges.

Bill Trishmitz, who identified himself during remarks, described broader anxieties about industry influence and long-term health risk narratives and urged caution. Another resident cited a nearby cell tower at Pine Haven and asked whether the village or county owns the site, whether existing infrastructure would be grandfathered, and whether the village's emergency services would respond to incidents tied to tower sites. The board said questions and written materials would be collected and the public hearing would be continued next month to allow follow-up and staff to provide answers.