Brookville soccer group wins council OK to pursue lights after park board sign-off

The Brookville Soccer Association asked City Council for permission to install four 30-foot stadium lights on Field 2 of the Soccer Complex to extend evening play during short fall daylight hours. Clement, speaking for the association, said the group has been active locally since about 1973 and serves roughly 350 season players. He presented a contractor estimate “right around $60,000” for four lights and said the association has saved about $43,000 toward the cost and will pursue grants and sponsorships to close the gap.

Clement described technical specifications for the proposed installation, saying average horizontal illuminance would be about 33.68 foot-candles (maximum about 81.3 foot-candles, minimum about 11.7) and that the design uses targeted fixtures to minimize glare. He added the plan includes an underground power run, a locked switch location near the concession stand, and a lightning-detection-ready switch for future installation.

Council members asked about light spill to nearby residences, metering and who would pay electrical bills, and whether separate switching (to light halves of the field) was possible. Clement said the lights will be aimed downward to limit spill and that the concession-area meter currently in place covers much of the service; he said one primary switch would be installed with a redundant future-ready switch for lightning protection.

Park Board staff had recommended the project move to City Council for final approval. Council voted to allow the association to proceed with fundraising and to return with any changes; staff also offered to assist with grant applications.

Council action: voice vote to authorize the soccer association to move forward with fundraising and permitting; the city did not pledge capital funds. The council asked staff to track any changes and report back if specifications are altered.