Clairemont Mesa Community Planning Group Meeting Recap (April 21, 2026)
This is a recap of the Clairemont Mesa Community Planning Group meeting held on April 21, 2026. Here are the key updates that may impact Clairemont residents.
Agenda Item: Gershwin Park Cell Tower
The main topic of discussion was the proposed AT&T cell tower at Gershwin Park (3549 Conrad Avenue).
Summary
Residents raised a wide range of objections. More than 30 attendees spoke, focusing on safety, health, environmental, and community impact concerns.
Health & Safety Concerns
- Concerns about radiation exposure, especially for children and families with disabilities
- Questions about fire risk due to the tower being disguised as a eucalyptus tree
- Concerns about evacuation challenges during wildfires, given limited exit routes
Location & Community Impact
- Questions about why a family-oriented park was selected
- Suggestions to use commercial areas or multiple smaller towers instead
- One resident reported approximately 50 daily park users, emphasizing its importance
- Concerns about property value decline and visual impact (artificial materials, debris)
Technical & Service Questions
- Some residents reported no current service issues
- Claims that 911 calls require minimal bandwidth
- Concerns the tower may support commercial use rather than emergency needs
- Suggestion to explore portable antenna alternatives
Fairness, Transparency & Community Benefit
- Concerns that revenue goes to the city’s general fund, not Clairemont
- Estimated city revenue: approximately $2,000 per month
- Suggestions for AT&T to contribute directly to the community
Legal & Regulatory Points
- One speaker cited guidance suggesting towers be approximately 0.7 miles from residential areas
- Reference to federal legislation (HR 2289) regarding limited carrier choice
Organizing & Advocacy
- Proposal to form a group and hire legal counsel
- Plans for door-to-door outreach
New Member Elected to the CCPG Board
Bob Scott, with a background in land use development, was elected to the board.
Do you own or help run a small business in town?
Meeting Outcome
- A motion to deny the project passed almost unanimously
- A disruptive attendee was removed with agreement from those present
About the Planning Group
The Clairemont Mesa Community Planning Group meets at 6 pm on the third Tuesday of each month at the Cathy Hopper Friendship Center. These volunteer-led groups advise the City of San Diego on land use, development, and community planning issues.
