Statement from County Executive Marc Elrich Regarding the Council’s Passage of New 5G Legislation
Per Montgomery County:
For Immediate Release: Wednesday 28 July
Widespread digital access and equity are vital to our nation’s infrastructure, to innovation and to our community. While I understand that the Council’s action on Zoning Text Amendment (ZTA) 19-07 is an attempt to provide additional practices and policies for installation of antennas that can accommodate 5G technology, I am disappointed that the Council majority failed to use the time since the November 2019 public hearing to collect best practices from other jurisdictions, understand the changing legal landscape at the FCC and work with residents to address community concerns.
The major changes to the ZTA after the November 2019 public hearing (the last point of official public input) only increased, rather than decreased, community concerns, as these changes reduced the limited use setback from 60 feet to 30 feet and allowed the possibility of telecommunication towers immediately adjacent to homes (via a modified conditional use process). While it is likely that the existing conditions in residential areas needed some changes, there’s no evidence that these detrimental changes were necessary. In fact, other nearby jurisdictions like Baltimore County have taken a more prudent approach that allows future changes without unnecessarily relinquishing local authority and process.
I am also concerned about the mistaken idea that there was an urgency to act immediately when the contrary is true. No immediate action was required. The County is still party to several unresolved lawsuits regarding telecommunications towers. Additionally, another relevant lawsuit regarding updating radio frequency standards is pending in the DC Circuit Court, and I want to acknowledge and thank Councilmember Will Jawando for his clear explanation of that lawsuit.
Furthermore, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is awaiting the appointment of its fifth member by President Joseph Biden. The former FCC chair was appointed by former President Donald Trump; it is the Trump FCC that issued the orders that are being challenged in court. An FCC with a chair appointed by President Biden is likely to be more consumer-friendly and supportive of local jurisdictions’ authority.
In this context, I proposed a workgroup to allow an opportunity to understand the complexities of the issues, and to provide for meaningful community participation. Although this workgroup was supported by some Councilmembers, most of the Council didn’t believe that there is enough time for this process. I believe that the need for a community workgroup on this issue remains given the deep community concern, the rapid legal and technological changes in this field, and the Council’s acknowledgement that changes may be needed.
I am proud of the work that my administration has done to expand digital access during the pandemic. We have increased efforts to expand home internet for low-income residents, as well as to expand robust broadband for rural residents and small businesses. Additionally, I am pleased that my administration was able to complete the installation of the public safety towers, which will provide enhanced and reliable communications for emergency responses. These efforts are central to a County that prioritizes digital equity and access.
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FREE Shred Day
Join us at Lafayette Federal Credit Union for a Free Community Shred Day, an event dedicated to helping you protect your privacy and the environment! Bring your old bank statements, bills, medical records, and any other paper documents that need secure disposal, and we'll take care of them on the spot.
Why You Should Come:
Protect Your Privacy: Safely shred sensitive documents to help prevent identity theft.
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Complimentary Breakfast: Enjoy a free breakfast on us--start your day right with good food and good company!
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This event is open to all! It's a fantastic opportunity to clean out those old documents cluttering up your home, safe in the knowledge that they will be disposed of securely. Plus, it's completely free!
Don't miss out on this chance to declutter safely, enjoy some free treats, and possibly win a great prize. We look forward to seeing you there, rain or shine!
For more information, contact us at www.lfcu.events/shred.
FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
