Kerhonkson residents raises concerns over cell tower plan near apartment complex

Residents of Kerhonkson, New York, are voicing strong opposition to a proposed 125-foot Verizon cell tower planned next to the Hudson Valley Commons apartment complex on Granite Road. The Rochester Town Board has scheduled a special meeting for June 3 to draft a comment letter addressing community concerns about the project.

Community Concerns About Tower Location

The proposed tower site sits immediately adjacent to residential apartments, raising alarm among local families. During a recent town workshop meeting, residents challenged the project's conditional negative declaration under the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA), arguing that proper environmental assessment hasn't been conducted.

"An over 125-foot steel structure is fundamentally incompatible in a residential neighborhood," resident John Medeski told the board, noting his home sits just 2,000 feet from the proposed site. "We will be forced to move." His concerns echo what many health-conscious homebuyers consider when evaluating properties near cell towers.

Board member Michael Coleman expressed similar reservations about the tower's proximity to homes. "To me, it doesn't make sense to have a cell tower immediately next to a residential building," he stated during the meeting.

What This Means for Families

For parents and homebuyers concerned about EMF exposure, this case highlights the importance of community involvement in cell tower siting decisions. While the town board cannot directly interfere with planning board operations, they're responding to resident concerns by drafting official comments during the ongoing public hearing process.

Beyond EMF considerations, residents raised concerns about impacts on the scenic Shawangunk Ridge viewshed and local wildlife. Property values were also cited as a concern - an important factor for families investing in their homes. Those worried about EMF exposure from cell towers know that distance matters, and proximity to residential buildings remains a key issue.

The tower was originally proposed at 145 feet but has been reduced to 125 feet. For families evaluating their options, understanding EMF shielding solutions and staying informed about local infrastructure projects can help in making informed decisions about where to live and how to protect their homes.

Originally reported by Daily Freeman