The council voted 8-1 Tuesday to approve a 120-day moratorium on
new wireless communications facilities, such as telecommunications
antennas, to give the city time to update its antenna law.
Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske, supported by council members Gary DeLong and Rae Gabelich, had proposed the moratorium. The idea for the moratorium came up April 7 as the council considered allowing a microwave antenna at the top of the Gaytonia Apartments, 212 Quincy Ave. Residents there were concerned about the potential health effects. Assistant City Attorney Mike Mais made clear at the time that if an antenna meets Federal Communications Commission regulations, the city can only deny it if there is an aesthetic issue.
Schipske said Tuesday the council should still study what options it has to address the placement of antennas in residential areas.
"It's not just about Gaytonia," Schipske said. "We've had a proliferation of requests to do this."
Councilman Val Lerch cast the only dissenting vote.
Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske, supported by council members Gary DeLong and Rae Gabelich, had proposed the moratorium. The idea for the moratorium came up April 7 as the council considered allowing a microwave antenna at the top of the Gaytonia Apartments, 212 Quincy Ave. Residents there were concerned about the potential health effects. Assistant City Attorney Mike Mais made clear at the time that if an antenna meets Federal Communications Commission regulations, the city can only deny it if there is an aesthetic issue.
Schipske said Tuesday the council should still study what options it has to address the placement of antennas in residential areas.
"It's not just about Gaytonia," Schipske said. "We've had a proliferation of requests to do this."
Councilman Val Lerch cast the only dissenting vote.
Paul Eakins reports on Long Beach City Hall, and local and regional
politics. A newcomer to the Press-
Kris Hanson reports on the Ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles,
covering environmental issues, economic triumphs and
pitfalls and trade trends of America’s largest port.
He also writes a weekly column “On The Waterfront”,
appearing Tuesdays, and also produces an occassional video
and column titled “On The Job,” which follows the hard-working
men and women who keep Southern California’s economy humming.
Karen Robes Meeks came to work for the Press-
Leave a comment