Residents in a Chicago suburb are expressing concerns that a new T-Mobile cell tower could negatively impact property values. The mobile carrier is required to remove old antennas from a water tower in Naperville, where it has rented space for over two decades. Due to a city ordinance aimed at eliminating private structures on municipal water towers, T-Mobile is seeking permission to construct a new 190-foot stand-alone tower to maintain network coverage.
T-Mobile representative Ray Shinkle informed the community that the removal of the current equipment is crucial to prevent diminished service quality in the area. He mentioned that both AT&T and Verizon are also interested in utilizing the new tower, which could enhance overall telecommunications options in Naperville. However, local residents like Jasmine Cordilla have voiced strong opposition, fearing the tower will drive down property prices and expressing concerns about the safety of radiofrequency (RF) emissions.
Shinkle refuted the residents’ worries about property devaluation, stating there is no credible appraisal evidence to support such claims. He reassured the public that the new structure would fully comply with FCC regulations. Furthermore, Lauren Neill, a T-Mobile employee and local resident, highlighted the importance of reliable cell service in today’s digital age, asserting that the new tower would bolster telecommunications infrastructure and provide residents with better broadband choices.
During the meeting, all commissioners showed support for T-Mobile’s proposal. Commissioner Stasha King acknowledged the significance of the project, reflecting on society’s growing reliance on technology. As the discussion unfolds, it remains to be seen how residents and the city will navigate the balance between technological progress and community concerns.