Residents of Spring Lake have recently secured a rare opportunity to join a lawsuit challenging the installation of Verizon’s 5G towers in their community. This decision, rendered by a federal judge, allows local homeowners to align their efforts with the borough’s legal fight against the proposed infrastructure, despite Verizon’s objections. Last November, Verizon Wireless initiated legal action against the town of Spring Lake, claiming that local officials had breached federal law by unduly delaying the review of its proposals. The company asserted that the town failed to meet a legal deadline, known as the “shot clock,” intended for local governments evaluating applications for wireless infrastructure, including 5G towers.
The group of Spring Lake residents, comprising seven individuals living near the proposed tower sites, organized themselves under the name “Spring Lake Against 5G Towers.” They believe that the construction would significantly impact their homes, property values, and the character of their historic community. They feel it’s vital for local voices to be heard concerning the placement of these towers and that their concerns are adequately addressed in any potential settlement. While Verizon argued that the residents’ interests were already represented by the town, the federal judge ruled in favor of the residents’ inclusion in the lawsuit.
The judge noted that their concerns closely relate to the broader case and that allowing their participation would not adversely affect the proceedings. As the legal battle unfolds, the residents are hopeful that their involvement will amplify their community’s stance against the 5G rollout, emphasizing the importance of local input in infrastructure decisions that may affect their neighborhood’s future.