Opposition Surfaces To Ompah Cell Phone Tower

Jeff Green | Feb 21, 2013

The lack of cell phone service in parts of North Frontenac has long been cited as a major obstacle to the economic viability of the region. But now that Bell Canada has decided to put up cell towers in compliance with a complex arrangement with the CRTC, concerns are being raised by the neighboring residents to at least one of the towers.

Chris Lemke lives on the property near the junction of Lake and Canonto Roads in Ompah. His property abuts the Roberts property, where one of the towers is slated to go.

“The towers will be 300 feet high, and the flashing light will shine right down on us; there are some concerns about this in my house and among some of my neighbors. I think the tower is right in our town. It's going to be an eyesore,” said Lemke.

Lemke did not receive notification about the pending construction, even though the tower will be on his neighbor's property. Notification is sent to property owners within a distance that is twice the height of proposed towers, a realtor working on the tower project for Bell Canada told North Frontenac Council last week.

“We only read about it in the paper on Friday,” said Lemke, and I think we should have heard directly because our property values will probably go down because of this. One of the reasons we live here is the peace and quiet.”

Lemke says he recognises the desire on the part of North Frontenac Council for cell phone service, but thinks a less public location would be preferable for all concerned.

“There has to be a plan B for this tower,” he said.

Lemke said that he has contacted members of North Frontenac Council about his concerns, but said they told him they have no authority over the placement of towers.

“They claim it is out of their hands” Lemke said.

The cell tower approval process is overseen by Industry Canada, a division of the federal government.