City Council Minutes 2023 10 02 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Meeting Minutes October 2, 2023 Page 3 of 14 Planner Brackett Hogstad stated this item was on the City Council Work Plans in 2021 and 2023. Put simply "Dark Sky" lighting is light that is directed down and not up towards the sky. It is a warmer light that is better for wildlife, sleep patterns, and safety and glare. This targeted lighting is designed to have light where you want it and not where you don't. She reviewed the benefits of dark sky lighting including reducing light pollution, security, reduced energy use, and helping wildlife. She reviewed the outreach staff has done including multiple iterations that have been reviewed by the public and the business community. Staff received public comments and surveys from many people. The proposed ordinance includes lighting regulations for both residential and nonresidential areas; addressed both public and private lighting; includes requirements for fully shielded fixtures, caps lumens, and down zones; has trespass limitations; and has exceptions for things such as holiday lights and decor. Brackett Hogstad stated the ordinance is written to give staff ways to review and measure for compliance. Safety was also considered when determining the minimum and maximum foot candles. The carve out for decorative and party lighting had a mandatory shut off time and lighting as to be near human activity areas. She stated the ordinance would apply to all new construction and replacement lighting. In addition, existing lighting would be required to come into compliance when 25% or more of a residential or commercial structure is altered; when a commercial addition is 25% of more of the total square footage; and for any size residential addition. She stated that this was written to address the concerns of business community and the costs of new lighting. Also it is designed to be administered through the existing building permit process. Staff tried to create a program that is doable without adding additional staff and one that is understandable for people. She stated that downtown is not exempt from this ordinance, however it is exempt from some specific commercial regulations. This is due to the smaller lots and the specific built environment which makes enforcing light trespass nearly impossible. Staff recommends approval of the ordinance. Public Comments John Webb, Louisville, stated he is in favor of the ordinance to help with sleep disturbance and glare, but specifically to benefit the nighttime insect population. Lighting has a major impact on insects and wildlife and dark sky rules help to reverse the trend. Cathern Smith, Louisville, urged Council to approve faster implementation for darker residential skies. She would like less glare and light shining on neighbors' properties.