Residents in Brawley express concern over cell tower

Residents say they worry about health risks - 13 On Your Side’s Vince Ybarra reports

BRAWLEY, Calif. (KYMA, KECY) - Brawley residents are expressing concerns over a cell tower that could be built near Ed Wiest field. They say they worry about the health risks.

Michael Reeves, a parent and Little League board member, has personal concern because of his past medical history. 

“I’ve had a brain tumor right in my ear, right where the radiation from a cell phone goes straight in,” said Reeves. 

Reeves says he now wears a guard when using his cell phone. He's also concerned for his son, who will play on the ball fields next year.

The city owns the land, at Magnolia Street and 3rd Street, where the cell tower is being built. The tower would be owned by Vertical Bridge Development, LLC. 

If the city gets their permit application complete, Brawley residents will have an opportunity to express their concerns on August 4.  

Deborah Owen, a Brawley resident, is concerned with how the city went about putting the cell tower on their agenda. 

She feels it was hidden from Brawley residents and expected more from the city council members.

“It makes the community distrust local leaders. Whether the leaders realize that or not, we expect transparency,” said Owen.

Tyler Salcido, the city manager for Brawley, emailed a statement regarding residents concerns. It says in part, “This council has the best interest of the city at heart, and have always tried to do what is best for all of the citizens of Brawley,”.

The residents I spoke with say they are not opposed to a cell tower being built, they just prefer a different location.