Proposed cell tower in Hermosa raises neighbor’s concerns

Residents in Hermosa Beach are pushing back against a proposed Verizon cell tower at 725 5th Street, raising concerns that resonate deeply with health-conscious families. The telecommunications company is seeking permission to build a 35-foot wireless facility on top of a commercial building that currently houses an auto repair shop, offices, and a CrossFit gym.

Why Residents Are Worried

At a March 17 Planning Commission meeting, neighbors voiced multiple concerns about the proposed tower. Among the primary worries cited were radiation exposure and the visual impact on the neighborhood. Adjacent property owner Liz Brubaker challenged the commission's reliance on Verizon's own materials without independent engineering verification, while her husband Robert questioned whether less intrusive alternatives had been adequately explored.

The placement is particularly concerning given its proximity to residential areas and active businesses. For parents wondering what these towers look like and how to spot them, this case highlights how cell infrastructure can appear in unexpected locations within communities.

A History of Community Resistance

This isn't Hermosa Beach's first battle over cell tower placement. In 2015, residents successfully blocked plans for two AT&T towers near the Kiwanis building in Valley Park. However, despite neighbor complaints, a cell tower was installed at the Five Corners intersection in 2023, showing that community opposition doesn't always prevail.

Mike Nichol, a resident with 25 years of experience at Frontier and Verizon, suggested alternative locations including the city maintenance yard and a former grocery store location. His expertise adds weight to residents' arguments that better options exist.

For families concerned about EMF exposure during pregnancy or those interested in understanding the deeper health implications of EMF and 5G, this local story underscores the importance of staying informed about infrastructure changes in your neighborhood. The Planning Commission has postponed their decision until May, directing Verizon to explore alternative placements on the property.

Originally reported by Easy Reader News