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Editor: 

Thank you for your consistent coverage of the controversial public safety building tower. It is important for Berkeley residents to understand that the negative impacts of the tower go far beyond aesthetics. The sixteen transmitting antennas on the tower emit extremely high levels of radiofrequency radiation.  

In Summerland, CA, the fire department is suing Nextel to remove antennas installed on their stationhouse a few years ago, because the firefighters began suffering grogginess, confusion, sleep disorders and other mental problems soon after the antennas were installed.  

Just last month, a court in Spain ordered the removal of an antenna near a school after four children developed leukemia within 18 months of the antenna's installation. 

The tower is immediately adjacent to McKinley House, a transitional shelter for women and children.  

It is also within two blocks of two grade schools and Berkeley High.  

It is my fear that in ten or twenty years, radiation from radio and cell phone towers will pose an even bigger public health crisis than lead paint and tobacco pose today, and all because the government, once again, stands behind false industry assurances as to the safety of their dangerous products. 

Concerned citizens should tell the council that industrial installations like the tower do not belong near schools and residences. 

Erica Etelson 

Berkeley