The Luther Forest community in Malta, New York is cherished for its natural beauty, peaceful neighborhoods, and strong sense of safety and togetherness. The recent proposal to install a 180-foot cell phone tower at the new New York State Troopers Barracks on Dunning Street poses significant and unacceptable risks to our neighborhood.

First and foremost, the proposed tower location presents serious safety and financial threats. At least 33 cell towers nationwide have spontaneously burst into flames, with several collapsing as a result. Placing a massive steel structure of this height directly beside family homes and recreational areas creates the potential for a catastrophic event in a heavily wooded and densely populated neighborhood like Luther Forest.

In addition, real estate experts and independent research warn that homes located near cell towers may suffer up to a 20% decline in property value. That is a severe financial hit to families who have invested their lives and savings into this community. Protecting home values and ensuring neighborhood safety should be top priorities, not optional considerations.

Beyond these immediate risks, a large and growing body of research conducted by independent scientists and nonprofit organizations (including a major 10-year federally-funded study) has demonstrated clear evidence of DNA and cellular damage associated with chronic exposure to radiofrequency radiation. These studies were performed by researchers with no financial ties to the telecommunications industry, giving their findings credibility and weight. Multiple independent analyses recommend a minimum safe distance of at least one-quarter mile between cell towers and residential homes. The proposed site violates this standard in every direction.

Compounding the issue, the visual impact of the tower has been understated. Renderings from Crown Castle on the town website misleadingly give the impression that the tower would be minimally visible, when in reality a 180-foot steel structure rising above the treeline would dominate the surrounding landscape and permanently alter the character of our forested neighborhood.

Residents understand and fully support the need for reliable communication networks, especially in a growing community like Malta, but infrastructure must be responsibly located. There are viable alternative locations away from densely populated residential zones that could provide equal or better coverage without placing families, homes, and property values at risk.

We respectfully call on the Town of Malta, Saratoga County officials, the Town Board, the Planning Board, and partnering telecommunications companies to relocate the proposed tower to an appropriate site that aligns with community safety standards, health guidelines, and the values of Malta.

Preserving the peaceful, family-centered environment of Luther Forest is not only reasonable; it is essential.