HOLLYWOOD, Fla. — A Hollywood family says they no longer feel comfortable living in their home after a 27-foot 5G pole was installed just steps from their bedroom windows.

Chris Albertelli, who has lived on 28th Avenue for more than 20 years, said the pole — erected by telecommunications company Crown Castle — now dominates his property.

“We can’t use the backyard, with the two bedrooms shut down, we barely use the kitchen,” he said.

Albertelli said he had no warning the pole would be placed 32 feet from the home where he and his family have invested heavily in renovations. Installed in July and activated in late September, the tower has left him concerned about long-term exposure to radio-frequency emissions.

“We are deathly afraid that our children will be harmed long term,” he said, adding that the family has spent thousands of dollars trying to mitigate their worries.

The family now sleeps in a tent in their living room under protective coverings. “It’s been very taxing on me,” Albertelli said.

The Albertellis have pleaded with the Hollywood mayor and city commissioners to intervene. During one recent meeting, the family called the pole “an intrusion that jeopardizes our well-being and property value.”

Commissioner Peter Hernandez said he sympathizes with the family’s situation.

“I would like to see the family be able to have peace in their house,” he said.

But Hernandez acknowledged the city has limited authority. A 2019 Florida law restricts local governments from regulating the placement of small 5G towers, leaving residents with few options.

“Based on the state preemptions, we as a city don’t have the ability to reach that balance when we have a situation like this,” Hernandez said.

He added that the city is in discussions with Crown Castle in hopes of finding a solution.

“This is Christmastime. They are in need of a Christmas miracle. If you are able to move the pole, move the pole,” he said.

Crown Castle, in a statement, said it followed all laws and permitting requirements:

“When considering the location of small cell sites, we collaborated closely with local municipal officials and our wireless carrier customers to ensure we’re bringing the maximum benefit to the community. Crown Castle followed all applicable laws and rules when this was permitted and built. The scientific and health communities have all come to the same general conclusion—there are no known health hazards from exposure to RF emissions within the established FCC guidelines. “

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