Bluff prepares public announcement after achieving Dark Sky Community designation

Town staff and the council reviewed draft materials for Bluff’s formal Dark Sky Community announcement. Town Manager Erin Nelson told the council the town’s application was approved and that Dark Sky International requires a 10‑day lead for its own release; Bluff staff proposed a tentative public announcement date timed with the new moon on June 25.

Communications intern Josie Law presented draft outreach products including a resident/business brochure explaining the exterior lighting ordinance, an informational kiosk sign for visitors, and a one‑page insert showing fully shielded fixtures. Nelson described the messaging and photos assembled for the international announcement and asked councilmembers to suggest public stargazing locations Bluff should identify for visitors.

Council discussion favored listing a small set of unaided viewing sites and noting lodging and business partners as aided viewing locations without binding the town to develop or maintain facilities overnight. Suggested unaided sites mentioned during the session included Bluff Community Center, Sand Island and Comb Ridge; Twin Rocks was discussed as a good photographic and viewing spot but several councilmembers recommended coordinating with businesses before listing private properties.

Nelson said staff would send the finalized materials to Dark Sky International and asked councilmembers to provide edits by the end of the next business day. No formal vote was taken during the work session; staff will finalize wording and coordinate with Dark Sky International on a release date.