Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Lighting Ordinance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission discusses ‘dark skies’ lighting recommendations; sustainability commission to review
Summary
Commissioners discussed a letter advocating modest changes to the city’s lighting rules (aim-down, dimmer fixtures) and reported that the sustainability commission will review and may endorse the proposal before it progresses to staff and council.
Members discussed a proposed “dark skies” letter that recommends clarifying the city’s existing lighting ordinances so fixtures are aimed down, minimize skyglow and reduce light trespass. The chair said the letter cites city planning documents and asks the city to codify clearer standards in one location so private and public fixtures are consistent.
Jeanne reported she presented the letter to the sustainability commission; members there wanted time to consider it and might form a subcommittee or endorse it. Commissioners said Jake (presentation lead) gave a concise talk to sustainability, and that city staff (James Boyd and others) requested a copy of the ordinance examples, which were provided.
Commissioners emphasized the proposed changes are modest: adjusting fixture direction, brightness limits, and encouraging timers or controls so private property lights are not permanently on. They noted enforcement questions remain — the ordinances already nominally apply to private lights, but how enforcement would proceed would be a separate staff/council discussion.
Next steps: the sustainability commission will review and decide whether to endorse and forward the letter; staff liaisons will follow up with James Boyd and other staff preparing recommendations to the city manager and council.
