Council Urges More Radar Station Studies

The Santa Paula City Council has unanimously passed a resolution urging the federal government to conduct further environmental studies before turning on its weather-tracking station on top of Sulphur Mountain.

The resolution formally endorses pending congressional legislation introduced by Rep. Elton Gallegly (R-Simi Valley) that would force the National Weather Service to conduct studies over the next year looking at the health effects of low-level radiation emitted by the 98-foot-tall radar tower. The tower is scheduled to be partially operational next week.

Residents who live near the radar station have tried but failed to halt the use of the tower in state and federal court. They have succeeded in garnering support from state and local politicians, including U.S. Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein of California.

Santa Paula’s resolution, passed by the council Tuesday night, is similar to those adopted by the Ventura County Board of Supervisors and the Ojai City Council.

Despite little evidence showing any potential risks for Santa Paula residents from the tower’s emissions, the council decided to push for further studies.

“It seems pretty clear that (the Weather Service) did not conduct the proper environmental review,” said Councilman John Melton.

The council heard from more than a dozen residents who live near the site, many sporting colorful new T-shirts emblazoned with “Move the Tower” along with a replica of the Evard Munch painting of “The Scream” and an image of the radar tower. Some residents became teary as they detailed their concerns to the council.

“I have a 10- and 11-year-old and planned on raising my children up there,” said Linda Fuller, choking back tears. “We’re terrified about what it might do. It’s not fair.”