Wireless communication returns to Costa Mesa City Council — again

Costa Mesa’s next step toward adopting infrastructure for advanced wireless technology is expected Tuesday — along with no small amount of flak from community members.

The City Council will again take up the discussion of a proposed ordinance concerning wireless telecommunications facilities in public rights-of-way. Members of the public have commandeered the item as a debate about the introduction of 5G, a fifth-generation wireless network that is intended to increase internet speeds and provide more-reliable connections.

The impetus for the ordinance came in 2018 from the Federal Communications Commission, which mandated that cities update their regulations for wireless communication facilities.

The city is largely bound to federal regulations regarding wireless communication facilities, with some leeway to modify the aesthetics. Discussion about proposed updates has wound its way through city channels, from the Planning Commission to the City Council and back again, since 2018 and is also taking place in nearby cities including Laguna Beach.

The proposed ordinance is designed to streamline the permit application process for wireless facilities and allow the city to meet federal mandates, according to a city staff report.

The applications would be reviewed by the city’s director of economic and development services who would approve those that meet code requirements.

The Planning Commission tweaked the proposal in January to include a requirement that residents within 500 feet of the proposed location be notified.

Members of the Costa Mesa Advocacy Group have opposed the ordinance every step of the way. Their concern centers on the belief that 5G technology could bring health risks, especially for children.

Some residents have also expressed concern about the aesthetics of the wireless communications facilities, which typically take the form of small boxes attached to light or electric poles along sidewalks.

Councilman Manuel Chavez said he met with concerned residents on Wednesday evening to discuss the proposed ordinance.

“We’re going to do our very best to ensure we have the best possible policy, both for the residents and for the telecommunications operators. There has to be a fair balance on both sides,” Chavez said. “But for the time being, I’m still asking questions, I’m still seeing what our staff has written up and if there is any way we can make it better. And if not, we’ll go with what we have.”

Tuesday’s meeting takes place at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at 77 Fair Drive.

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