Some Pawling residents are concerned about the proposed location of a new Verizon cell antenna in the village.
Natasha Rubiosa says she understands the importance of better reception in the community, especially as someone who has taught remotely for nine months. However, she is one of the many residents who think the planned spot for it needs to be reconsidered.
The antenna is set to be placed on the top of an old plastics building. Residents say the 9-foot-tall tower would ruin the renovations the village just went through.
"Now, as you turn into the village green, all you see is this…. not very attractive plastic factory. And now we're going to accentuate that by placing an antenna right above it," Rubiosa says.
If the antenna were to go up, it would go against a few of the village's ordinances, including being within 500 feet of homes and within 1,000 feet from a school.
So far, the zoning board has given the project the nod. Officials gave no comment on the residents’ concerns about the project.
According to Verizon, the technology would strengthen coverage and data speeds and is specifically designed to help in densely developed areas.
While Rubirosa agrees an antenna is needed, she and others believe it should find a home elsewhere in the village.
The proposal is expected to go before the village's planning board on Jan. 12.