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To the Editor:

As reported in the Star on 9/18/24, a rural resident has spoken to our City Council about their aggravation with light pollution from neighboring property due to lights provided by the Electric Department. As a resident of rural Carter County, I recognize that most households in my area rent a utility-pole light from the Electric Department for safety and security. 

A few years ago, when my utility-pole light went out, I was surprised at how well my neighbor’s pole light illuminated my property more than 200 feet away. So, I had my utility-pole light removed, saving me about $130 a year. During a power outage, I was impressed by how many more stars I could see. Sometime later, when my neighbor’s pole light went out, I suggested they wait a few days before contacting the Electric Department to see if they enjoyed the dark sky. They said their darker bedroom helped them sleep better. Now, both of our households enjoy a darker sky with lower lights placed where needed.

I’ve recently learned about the negative effects of light pollution on nighttime pollinators such as moths. For me, part of the benefit of living in a rural area is to enjoy nature. Harming nature’s patterns with unnecessary light pollution makes no sense. I understand lighting needs vary, but there are ways to provide light while minimizing light pollution. This includes using lights that are more yellow/red than white and extending shades on lights to prevent upward shine and limit how far they reach on the ground.

Mayor Alexander’s suggestion of a workshop on lighting and dark skies sounds like an excellent way to learn about meeting safety and security needs while reducing light pollution. The Electric Department could make these upgrades just as they’ve upgraded to LED bulbs.

D. McCoy

Elizabethton