T-Mobile application denied

After much debate, and opposition from residents, the Lynbrook Village Board unanimously denied a special use application from T-Mobile to erect nine concealed cell antennae on the rooftop of a local commercial building on Sunrise Highway and Rogers Avenue.

The cellular giant’s plans for the concealed antennas and equipment cabinets at 875 Sunrise Highway, also known as the Sceptre Tours building, were a point of contention for the community, who voiced strong opinions against it. Concerns over possible health risks, and aesthetics arose in early February, during a public hearing at Lynbrook’s village hall. Residents later called for the application’s denial, and the board heard, and eventually agreed.

“The need for service was not shown, so the request must be denied,” said Village Attorney Peter Ledwith in a statement to the board on June 20. “They have not proven the gap in service exists.”

T-Mobile proposed placing six rooftop antennas in the building’s front adjacent to Sunrise, and three antennas in the rear. The reason was to provide more coverage, including in-building, said attorney John Huber, who represented the company in the matter. According to Huber, the company chose the site after completing an extensive search of the area.

Their application was initially filed in May 2008, but T-Mobile was asked to upgrade the quality of their request, as to obscure antennas from public view. Officials were concerned about the radio emissions, the antenna’s height, and the safety of workers.

The company submitted documents meeting the Federal Communications Commission’s requirements for their proposed construction, confirmed Lynbrook Building Department Superintendent Brian Stanton back in February. They also presented expert witness testimonies, detailing the structural, engineering, site acquisition, and emissions information for their proposal at the February hearing.

However, several residents did not agree with the company’s fact-finding. “They compare the emissions to a microwave, phone and baby monitor, but those things are not on all day,” said resident Christina Gerbi. “My main concern is the frequency affecting my children.”