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Residents’ concerns about internet service

CORNWALL — As town officials continue to gather information about options for providing high-speed internet service to all households in Cornwall, two residents attended the Tuesday, April 16, meeting of the Board of Selectmen to air their concerns about the new technology involved in the new 5G wireless services.

Citing perceived health risks underlying fiber optics and the 5G transmitters, Meg McMorrow and Brad Harding asked for details on which properties in town are lacking internet connection. The new 5G service will require that cells the size of mini refrigerators be attached to utility poles. They said those cells could bring radiation exposure. Also with 5G, more information is transmitted at a higher speed; but to achieve that, more of the cells need to be installed than were required for earlier types of service.

“How it’s done matters,” McMorrow and Harding argued, although they added that they are not opposed to enhanced internet availability in town. Rather they are looking for safe and effective connectivity. 

“It can be done intelligently with less environmental impact.”

First Selectman Gordon Ridgway indicated that conversations and the learning process are just beginning to explore connectivity options available to the town. He had already scheduled a meeting for the next morning to continue the conversation with McMorrow and Harding.

Ridgway announced that the Northwest Hills Council of Governments (COG) has hired a consultant to work with area towns to implement economic development strategies, and that one focus will be improving internet service.  The COG is an organization made up of the first selectmen of 21 Litchfield County towns.

Public discussions are just beginning, he said.

Other business

A recurring situation at the West Cornwall railroad track crossing where the protective arms get stuck in the “down” position is being dealt with, according to Ridgway.  

An initial call to the railroad brought prompt repair, but the problem has persisted. He intends to phone state elected officials to see what can be done.

Lakeville Journal

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