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Committee urges outreach after lighting dispute; enforcement described as reactionary
Summary
Following a Nextdoor dispute over lighting at Saint Martin's Church, committee members discussed gaps between the village's down-facing lighting ordinance and on-the-ground practice and proposed an advertising campaign and permit-checking to increase compliance.
Committee members on Sept. 12 discussed the village’s outdoor-lighting ordinance after members described a neighborhood controversy about a church parking-lot light that drew complaints on Nextdoor.
Michael Pawlikowski and Carly explained that the current code already requires down-facing fixtures in many cases but that enforcement is largely reactionary: replacements and new fixtures are often installed without permits, and electricians sometimes replace fixtures with like-for-like options that do not comply with the ordinance. Carly noted that some jurisdictions (Middleton was cited) require permits for replacement of external commercial fixtures to ensure compliance.
Committee members said many residents are unaware the ordinance exists. Jen Juan Karl asked how to gain community support before drafting new rules; Carly suggested an initial advertising campaign to inform residents about the existing standards and encourage self-policing. Michael Pawlikowski suggested the next step be public education so people “know what is already in place” before considering stronger changes.
Members agreed to explore an outreach campaign and to research enforcement mechanics and possible permit adjustments; no changes to the ordinance were adopted at the meeting.
Ending: Committee directed staff to investigate outreach options and to discuss next steps with the police chief and other stakeholders; the idea of an informational campaign to clarify existing rules was prioritized.
