Western Springs 'Pushes Envelope' On 5G

WESTERN SPRINGS, IL — The attorney for Western Springs says the village is considering regulations for 5G antennas that are "pushing the envelope," but are consistent with state and federal laws. He hopes the village board can consider them at its meeting in mid-March.

The village is responding to residents' concerns about the health effects of 5G antennas, which are the latest in wireless technology.

At this week's village board meeting, attorney Michael Jurusik said that among the proposed changes to the village's design standards is a rule to keep 5G antennas at least 100 feet away from houses unless they are attached to utility poles. The village's design standards also would place a preference for such antennas on corner utility poles, not mid-block, with the stated intent of keeping them away from as many houses as possible, he said.

Under its standards, the village would additionally emphasize placing 5G-related equipment underground, if possible.

Jurusik said the village is also proposing a requirement for telecommunications carriers to self-monitor their equipment.

"We may get some pushback from the carriers undoubtedly," he said. "Are we pushing the envelope here? Yes, but we do have police powers for public health, welfare and safety."

Village President Alice Gallagher reported at the board meeting about the recent town hall on 5G antennas.

"The purpose of the meeting was to provide a forum for residents to have their questions answered by those most qualified to do so, so it was disappointing that no representatives from the telecommunications companies attended," Gallagher said.

State Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, R-Elmhurst, and Sen. Suzy Glowiak, D-Western Springs, showed up. Village officials are working with them and other legislators to change state law to give more local control over siting of 5G equipment.

Residents in Western Springs, Hinsdale and Clarendon Hills, among other towns, fear telecommunications companies will dot the landscape with 5G antennas. They say the antennas' radio frequencies could affect their health.