[GVARC] Transmission tower petition in Gilroy

[David Oberstadt]

A petition is going around Gilroy to prohibit transmission towers. You can
see the Dispatch's article here:

http://www.gilroydispatch.com/news/newsview.asp?c=6814

Here is the petition text:

"No broadcast, microwave, or any other form of transmission tower, nor
transmitter, emitting radio waves or any other form of radiation, may be
allowed or permitted within 2,500 feet of any residence, school or city
drinking water supply."

You can tell right away that the authors lack technical understanding. Can
we help this group create a fair and specific petition if they don't want
transmission towers in residential neighborhoods?

The good news is that Gilroy's mayor, Tom Springer, knows the petition is
too broad. He says, "The issue of wanting no radiation is understandable,
but presenting a petition that is well intended but vaguely worded and
poorly constructed is confusing and a problem in itself."

Looks like a good way for us to bring some technical expertise. Evidently a
75-foot tower is planned near Welburn and Mantelli, and the petition is
their reponse. I'm sure interested in yours.

Thanks!

David Oberstadt