The Show Low City Planning and Zoning Meeting held on January 14, 2025, focused on significant community concerns regarding the installation of a new cell tower. The primary issues discussed included property values and health implications associated with the proposed tower's electromagnetic radiation.

During the meeting, several residents expressed their worries about how the tower might affect their property values, but a deeper concern emerged regarding potential health risks. One speaker highlighted the ongoing debate surrounding the safety of 5G technology, referencing studies from the FCC and cancer research institutions. He pointed out that the Spectrum Act prohibits local jurisdictions from considering health effects in their decision-making processes regarding cell tower installations.

A key point raised was the comparison between the radiation emitted from cell phones and that from cell towers. A representative explained that the power emitted from a cell phone is significantly higher than that from a tower, suggesting that concerns about the tower's safety might be misplaced. He emphasized that the radiation levels from the tower are much lower than those from personal devices, which are used close to the body.

Commissioner Wells questioned the choice of the proposed site for the tower, noting that there had been no dropped calls in the area for years. The discussion revealed that alternative sites were considered, but logistical challenges, such as the inability to install necessary equipment at a nearby location, led to the selection of the current site.

The meeting underscored the community's apprehensions about health and property values in relation to new technology, as well as the complexities involved in site selection for cell towers. As the city moves forward with planning, these discussions will likely continue to shape the decision-making process regarding telecommunications infrastructure in Show Low.