Environmental stewardship committee sends 'Lights Out' proclamation to commission, urges public education

The Environmental Stewardship Committee voted unanimously Dec. 10 to forward a Lights Out proclamation to the city commission, urging residents to reduce nonessential nighttime lighting to benefit migratory birds, sea turtles and pollinators.

The chair opened discussion by describing personal steps taken to reduce lighting and said the initiative will need an education component for residents, including simple steps such as timers or amber bulbs. "I think there's gonna have to be kind of education," the Chair said, noting the proclamation would be accompanied by outreach materials and suggestions.

Members raised practical questions about scope and safety. One committee member asked whether the proclamation would affect streetlights; staff and members said streetlights would not be included in the voluntary residential guidance. Concerns about traffic safety were raised and discussed; the Chair said staff and partners would review safety implications and that security or necessary safety lights are not the proclamation target.

Committee members proposed possible supportive actions, including a bulb‑swap program and partnerships with local groups such as the sea turtle patrol and Audubon. A member suggested offering practical, low‑cost options for residents (timers, amber bulbs, door‑hanger education) and noted the city already uses amber lighting in limited beach‑adjacent locations.

The committee approved the motion to move the proclamation forward to the city commission by voice vote. The committee did not establish a funding source for any exchange program during the meeting; members asked staff to explore cost estimates and potential partner letters of support.

Next step: the proclamation and recommended outreach materials will be transmitted to the city commission for consideration and any further direction.