As Verizon (NYSE: VZ) has attempted to move forward with plans to install 5G small cell poles in Belmar, NJ, residents who oppose the plan continue to speak out against it. According to TapInto Belmar/Lake Como, the most recent town hall meeting was attended by over 200 people, many of whom were determined to thwart Verizon.
“I was overwhelmed by the support we had at the Town Hall in our fight against Verizon,” observed Councilwoman Dr. Jodi Kinney. “The residents are speaking loudly and have secured their own attorney, Scott McCullough, to represent them in this fight against the 5G towers.”
In an earlier legal move, Children’s Health Defense petitioned to be included as an intervenor in the fight against Verizon. McCullough was brought on board at that time. At the townhall meeting, McCullough focused his remarks on phantom health concerns relating to the presence of 5G facilities. He argued that nine small cell poles in Belmar posed a health risk to both humans and wildlife.
Approaching the matter from a legislative angle, State Representative Chris Smith, reminded the crowd that he is pushing HB 8082 to take decision-making power away from the FCC and put it back in the hands of local government. “The heart of my legislation is to restore the critical voice of local residents in decisions that affect the health, safety, and aesthetics of their communities,” he stated.
TapInto described the gathering as an emotional affair, with Verizon detractors joining together to support each other. It does not appear that Verizon had a representative at the meeting as no comments from the telecom were cited. In earlier interactions, Verizon has said that installing streetlight 5G units along the Belmar boardwalk is a public safety concern and would address a coverage need, according to TapInto Belmar/Lake Como.
Reader Interactions