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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2018-07Resolution 2018-07 Resolution Opposing Loss of Local Control Concerning Installation and Operation of New Wireless Equipment in Municipalities WHEREAS, in the 2017 General Assembly Session localities worked with the telecommunications industry ("the industry") to pass S131 282, which was a compromise bill providing a pathway to small cell telecommunications facilities to be located on existing structures; and WHEREAS, VML and VACo and the industry agreed to discuss how to assist underserved areas after the session; and WHEREAS, the industry officials did not engage in meaningful discussions regarding underserved areas and only wanted to discuss a further erosion of local land use authority regarding new structures; and WHEREAS, 2018 legislation by the Industry (HB1258 and S6405) proposes to eliminate most local control over the installation and operation of new structures and the replacement of current technology; and WHEREAS, this legislation mandates a ministerial process which eliminates the ability for local officials, residents and businesses to have meaningful input into decisions affecting the character of their own communities; and WHEREAS, this legislation represents a shift in authority, moving decision-making authority from the community and local elected officials to for-profit corporations that install wireless equipment; and WHEREAS, the wireless equipment installations can have significant health, safety and aesthetics impacts but those companies have little, if any, interest in taking into account those concerns that potentially conflict with their profit margins. NOW THEREFORE, be it RESOLVED, that the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia sitting in regular session this 6` day of February 2018, does hereby protest and oppose the proposed loss of local authority regarding the siting and placement of wireless equipment installations both in our community and in municipalities throughout the Commonwealth; FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Town Council does hereby direct the Clerk of Council to send a copy of this resolution to the state delegates and senators representing the Town of Pulaski, Virginia; Delegate Nick Rush and Senator A. Benton Chafin, Jr., the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the Virginia Municipal League. This resolution is effective upon adoption and is hereby adopted this 6th day of February 2018 by the duly recorded vote of the Town Council of the Town of Pulaski, Virginia as follows: James A. Radcliffe -Aye Gregory C. East -Absent David L. Clark -Aye ATTEST: David N. Quesenberry Clerk of Council Joseph K. Goodman -Aye H.M. Kidd -Aye Lane R. Penn -Aye THE TOWN OF PULASKI, VIRGINIA BY: 4j_0 Robert N. Glenn Mayor