Members of Elliot Lake city council had plenty of concerns about the construction of a new cellular tower at their Monday night meeting, but quickly learned they have virtually no say about it's size and location.
A consultation process on the project took place after a notice was published locally on Nov. 28 last year and it wrapped up on Jan. 2 this year. One resident who submitted a letter with concerns questioned the health and safety implications connected with broadcasting high frequency radio signals from the planned location at 1 College Place in the Esten-Highway 108 area. The Oakville-based company handling the project for Rogers says the resident agreed to disagree with Rogers over the health concerns after being presented with studies that showed there is nothing to worry about.
Councillor Luc Cyr was concerned that the cell tower, at 70 metres high or about 200 feet, would be the first City of Elliot Lake landmark visitors would see as they drive up Highway 108 from the south. He reasoned if there are any concerns about the tower, it is now they need to be raised before the city issues a letter of concurrence, which would give Rogers the go-ahead for construction.
Like the resident, several members of council were surprised that Elliot Lake's zoning regulations have no relevance for Industry Canada approved telecommunications projects. There were also concerns the city needs to get assurances in writing from Rogers that tower warning lights will be monitored and replaced quickly when they burn out. In light of all these issues, the cell tower issue was deferred by Elliot Lake council which will take another look at it, at a future meeting.
Last month Elliot Lake Mayor Dan Marchisella announced Rogers plans to establish free wifi signals to be available allowing internet access as part of the cellphone tower project.