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Councilmember Pentin asked about the possibility of placing a facility directly in front of the City's <br /> historic sign and Mr. May indicated the application could be denied on the basis of its interference <br /> with the historic sign and referenced an applicable legal case. Mr. May also addressed installation on <br /> decorative poles and reported outside of the public rights-of-way, the City's contracting authority is <br /> stronger. Councilmember Pentin asked about strand-mounted wireless facilities and Mr. May <br /> explained that having too many will have negative impacts on aesthetics. He confirmed that all costs <br /> incurred by the City would be paid by the applicant. Councilmember Pentin referenced temporary <br /> power generators, backup power sources and declaration of emergencies and asked about the types <br /> of emergencies that can be declared. Mr. May explained the different power provisions, concealed <br /> equipment permits and specific updates. <br /> In response to Vice Mayor Brown regarding high-tech processes within buildings where signals are <br /> unable to go through walls, Mr. May referenced Het-Nets and the platform for fixed wireless services. <br /> He confirmed the City is not replacing anything relative to telecommunications but rather adding to <br /> existing regulations. <br /> Vice Mayor Brown noted the World Health Organization opposes 5G technology and asked what <br /> residents can do to voice their opinion. Mr. May reported Congress has ultimate control over the FCC <br /> and suggested getting Congress involved would be a great first step and noted challenges in terms <br /> of local steps. <br /> Vice Mayor Brown opened the public hearing. <br /> Donte Williams, Verizon Wireless, referenced their letter to the City and asked for a continuance to <br /> allow for refinement of the proposed ordinance. He listed concerns including bringing a public <br /> comment into what should be an objective standard, reviewing preferences for locations, <br /> undergrounding the equipment, allowing ground-mounted cabinets and concealment. He indicated <br /> Verizon's willingness to work closely with the City to come up with the best possible design and protect <br /> the digital future of the community served. <br /> Jyothi Keshavdas, Verizon Wireless, addressed the City's development and growth and discussed <br /> the need for improved wireless experiences. She added the City should work with carriers to provide <br /> a common ground and improve cell service in the City. <br /> Joan Tenbrink commented on the perceived aspect of health and expressed concern regarding <br /> decreasing property values, further decreasing sidewalk space for pedestrians, removal of equipment <br /> once the technology becomes obsolete and equipment maintenance. She opposed having any type <br /> of telecommunications facilities near schools and expressed concerns with maintenance workers not <br /> wearing identifiable uniforms. <br /> Mr. May noted the issue of perceived health effects is currently the subject of litigation. In terms of <br /> ADA requirements, not complying with them would be a basis for denying a facility. Additionally, the <br /> carrier is responsible for removing any obsolete equipment as well as maintaining it and, the City <br /> cannot have requirements that are more burdensome than FCC requirements but may require <br /> removal bonds from larger carriers. In terms of maintenance, facilities outside rights-of-way may be <br /> dealt with through contracts. The issue of maintenance workers wearing identifiable uniforms, Mr. <br /> May reported that issue may be addressed through amendments, in the future, if it becomes a <br /> problem. <br /> City Council Minutes Page 2 of 4 March 11, 2019 <br />