Assemblyman McKevitt’s Mobile Office Visits Garden City

Assemblyman Tom McKevitt’s mobile office made a stop at the Garden City Public Library on Wednesday to address constituents’ concerns. His visit was part of an overall effort to meet directly with residents so they can share their views regarding state government. 

“As we battle a growing budget deficit and unsustainable spending, it is more important than ever that I take Nassau County's message back to Albany,” McKevitt, R-East Meadow, said.

Garden City residents Mary Timmins and Maureen Leone attended the meeting to seek help regarding the presence of NextG Distributed Antenna Systems, which have been placed in residential backyards. Ten boxes have been installed impacting 40 homes. 

Timmins advised that the boxes emit a low whirring sound which elevates especially in the warmer weather. A sound buffer has been placed on the boxes, but Timmons said it has not reduced the noise. She believes that the noise must be a violation of the village’s noise ordinance.

Since the boxes were installed last summer, NextG has asserted that they have a right to install them because the State Public Service Commission (NYS PSC) recognizes them as a public utility.

Timmins advised that other towns have successfully reduced the size of the boxes. She also expressed concern regarding radiation levels and safety. A study commissioned by the Garden City Board of Trustees has revealed that radiation levels are below limits set by the Federal Communications Commission. 

“NextG is the new bully on the block,” Timmins said. “I can’t enjoy my backyard without hearing constant noise. One homeowner has a box placed a few feet from his barbecue. NextG is not a regulated public utility so there are no safeguards or periodic testing required.”

The duo has contacted Attorney General Eric Schneiderman at the suggestion of County Executive Ed Mangano’s office. Mangano’s office wrote to the NYS PSC and received a response stating that NextG is a cellular company and not under the jurisdiction of the PSC.

Verizon, who owns the poles, claims they are mandated to lease space on their poles and give NextG the use of easement rights to the utility poles. These rights date back to the 1930s and were intended for electrical wires.

McKevitt promised to work with Sen. Kemp Hannon, R-Garden City, to further investigate NextG’s right to utilize utility easements.

“More people are utilizing cell phones and moving away from landlines,” McKevitt said. “We would like all of the boxes installed in industrial areas but for efficiency they need to be placed near the users.”

Senior citizen Ed Heaney also attended the meeting. He raised the issue of escalating taxes during a stormy economy.

“Taxes are particularly difficult for retirees,” Heaney said. “Seniors have no way to replace or earn more money; the life they’ve hoped for is being taken away.”

McKevitt, who voted against tax increases, referred to the tax cap implemented by the governor. He added that the cap, without effective mandate relief, is not enough to fix the problem. 

McKevitt plans on visiting every town in the 17th district.

Further information regarding McKevitt's mobile office can be found online at assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Tom-McKevitt.