LETTERS: Higher usage demands additional cell phone towers

Ormond Beach Observer
Opinion

In this edition of Letters to the Editor, a reader speaks out against the city's opposition to a 150-foot cell phone tower; plus, comments from Facebook.

COMPILED BY THE OBSERVER STAFF

Tower like a toilet brush?

Dear Editor,

Regarding a request to the city of Ormond Beach for a cell phone tower, it seems that substantiated facts from a variety of experts can’t hold a candle to hearsay, innuendo and guesses among the usually intelligent and thoughtful Ormond Beach City Commissioners.

The only voice of reason was Mayor Ed Kelley, who recognized wireless communication growth is inevitable and 75% of all 911 emergency calls in 2012 were from cell phones. Even a communication both to the planning board and in an email from the president of the residential Home Owners Association most affected by the tower stating that the residents were not opposed was ignored.

The commissioners seemed bent on ignoring every valid argument put forth by the cell companies and instead focused on their greed in wanting to charge others for a placement on the tower. Here’s how business works: If a company can make a few bucks by charging other companies for services, that’s money they won’t have to pass on to cell phone customers.

I’m not sure the tower looked like a toilet brush — maybe the tallest fake Christmas tree is more accurate — but increasing service capabilities, making sure 911 calls get through and beautifying the area around the tower seems to be valid reasons. Of course, according to Ormond’s code, they could build a bunch of cheaper, more unsightly, smaller towers willy nilly and not even have to go through the lengthy and expensive process of getting permission.

One of the less intelligent queries was about waiting for better technology. New technology is created daily, but I don’t think folks that buy those products wait for “improved technology.” They get what they need when they need it.

Those towers are needed; the increase in usage demands it, and not just from the public but from businesses. It will get done one way or the other, but with this denial the course left open to the tower folks may not be the most desirable in terms of location and appearance. Unfortunately, the commissioners will have lost their opportunity to get the “deluxe” model.

I’ve never been so embarrassed for this group of usually competent commissioners and never been so proud of the mayor for maintaining his cool when surrounded by the misguided ignorance of his cohorts. I’m sure they thought they were doing the right thing; they were wrong. So much for being “business-friendly.”

Sincerely,

Paul J. McMichael

Ormond Beach

Facebook rumblings

When asked, “What’s the best advice you would give to graduating seniors?” readers responded as follows, on the Ormond Beach Observer’s Facebook fan page.

Lea D’Loughy The most important thing you can do in your life is to do everything you do in your life with integrity.

Rose Fauci Listen to your heart and be willing to work hard and, yes, with integrity!

James Neill Pull up your pants and speak clearly.

Matt Casey Don’t smoke crack.

Lea D’Loughy Your purpose in this world is hidden in your passion. Find it! Live it! Share it!

Following the city’s decision to table its ban on roadside signs, we asked our readers “Should roadside signs be prohibited and the ban enforced, or is the city right for taking more time to think it over?”

Melissa Greene Lucero Open house and garage sale signs should be allowed but removed by the owner after the event. First offense should be a warning. Second offense should involve a ticket. How about enforcing the pedestrian right-of-way law on A1A, especially at the beach side parks? That would be greatly appreciated.

Glenda McCall I think garage sale signs should be allowed since we have to pay the city to have a garage sale by having to buy a permit. If people cannot find your sale then why have it? But, (the signs) should be taken down immediately after the sale.

Sandy Fraser Cornelius Ormond Beach snobs want to ban everything that their Halifax Yacht club buddies don't like. The many must suffer for the few.

If you were in charge, what’s the main Ormond Beach attraction you would promote to tourists, if the city and Chamber of Commerce are able to create a comprehensive city brochure.

Sandy Fraser Cornelius Book a hotel in Flagler!

Caryn Baker Our beach front parks

Kymbrough Kozak I'd recommend LuLu's and some other great eating establishments! The historical tour was neat, too! And of course our beachfront parks!

Chrissy Daugherty Oh, easy! Tomoka State Park and the scenic route to get there! Frappes for food, of course

Lucy Pulido-Cloer I'd rather promote Daytona Beach and see tourist spend their time and money there so we can enjoy the spoils here in Ormond. Think Bal Harbour, just my opinion. Pass it on.