Consider stealth tower on mountain
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Updated: August 05, 2009 2:05 PM
Dear Editor:
Question: When is a cell phone tower not a visible blight? Answer: When it is a stealth cell site.
Concerns regarding the safety of cell phone tower radio emissions aside, what about the visual blight of these towers on our landscape?
Yes, we all want better cell phone coverage, but isn’t there room for some creativity here?
I was recently in a seaside resort in Egypt and marvelled at a majestic palm tree right in the centre of the small town. It wasn’t until the end of my stay that I was told it was actually a camouflaged cell tower.
On today’s walk up Giant’s Head I saw the construction that has begun on the Telus tower.
It is clear that a traditional tower built here will significantly impact the beauty of the hill scape that we all enjoy.
This is not a minor concern.
Summerland is what it is today largely because of its natural beauty. We need to do what is reasonable to protect it.
Many communities are recognizing the importance of scenic conservation.
One of the strategies is to build stealth cell tower sites, like the one I saw in Egypt.
In fact, apparently one-quarter of all cell tower sites in the U.S. are now stealth sites.
Of course there is an added price tag that comes with camouflage but all things considered, it is a price we should be willing to pay.
Perhaps this has already been considered.
If not I challenge both Telus and Summerland council to show both foresight and creativity.
Please don’t use the excuse that it is too late or too costly.
Where there is a will there is a way.
Meggie Ross
Summerland
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