CYPRESS : It’s Over and Out for Ham Radio Antenna

A ham radio operator was ordered to take down his antenna last week after residents complained that it interfered with everything from their television sets to their hearing aids.

The City Council denied John Desloge’s request to keep his antenna because it exceeded the 35-foot limit specified by a city code.

“I do believe this man can continue his hobby without disturbing the neighbors,” said Councilwoman Margaret Arnold. “The way it can be solved is for the antenna to be modified so it doesn’t disturb the neighbors.”

Residents Jim and Carol Drake said their television set and telephone were affected by the radio transmissions.

“Our television would cut off, sometimes it would get all white and grainy. It also hung up my telephone a couple of times,” Jim Drake said.

However, he added that the Drakes wanted to work with Desloge to find a neighborly solution to the problem. “In every other respect Mr. Desloge has been a good neighbor,” he said.

Desloge, a radio operator for 34 years, said that when he moved to the city 18 years ago he was told he didn’t need a permit for his antenna. Since then, he has had various setups, including several different-sized antennas. This was the first time he was aware that he was violating city code, he said.

“I have taken exceptional steps to eliminate the interference,” Desloge said. “I am more than willing to work with the neighbors.”

A handful of radio operators came to the council meeting to show their support for Desloge. They asked the council to grant his variance, saying that his radio could be used for emergency communications during disasters such as earthquakes.

But council members Arnold, Walter Bowman and Mayor Cecilia Age sided with the residents.

“I appreciate the hobby and all; however, there are other neighbors who have a problem with it,” Age said.

Officials said Desloge will be given a few weeks to take down the antenna.