Savannah residents “outraged” over cell towers appearing in neighborhoods without notice

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -Residents across Savannah are expressing frustrations over cell towers appearing in their neighborhoods without advance notice, prompting city leaders to explore new protections against future installations.

Crown Castle USA used Georgia Senate Bill 66 to bypass Savannah’s metropolitan planning commission and city council approval process to build at least 39 towers across the city, according to District 4 Alderman Nick Palumbo.

“This is a loophole that they found, we don’t know how they found it and took advantage of, but it’s something we can fix,” Palumbo said.

Company pulls disappearing act

Palumbo said he has received dozens of complaints about the towers in his district. He said Crown Castle withdrew their application on the day of a public hearing where neighbors had gathered to address concerns.

Attempts to contact Crown Castle USA by phone resulted in a disconnected number message. The company’s listed business address also showed no signs of their presence.

Mayor Van Johnson said he was unaware of the tower installations until they began appearing.

“Personally I was not aware until it started to occur. We’re evaluating our options about it,” Johnson said.

Residents caught off guard

Multiple neighbors expressed frustration over the lack of notification, including one resident who had a pole placed on their property. The resident recorded video of the installation process.

Palumbo said the city should follow the example of Sandy Springs, Georgia, which implemented local residential protections against cell towers.

“We’re able to draw from them and their model ordinances on how to make it better, and I’m hoping for a speedy resolution at city council,” Palumbo said.

No specific date has been set for when a protective ordinance might be introduced to city council.