Thank you for the chance to recognize the achievement of the City of Alpine and clarify the public narrative regarding its updated outdoor lighting ordinance.

The previous 20-year-old ordinance was outdated because lighting technology changed dramatically, and we know that LEDs and blue light can cause serious problems if used improperly. Updating the ordinance started in winter 2019/2020. The draft version was available for consideration, comment, and editing until final approval July 6, 2021. It addresses excessive lighting, light trespass, glare, shielding, and much more.

At the July 6 city council meeting, members asked about citizen comments. Bill Wren and I spoke, and council members acknowledged Alpine Downtown Associations’ proclamation supporting the city’s dark skies initiatives and the ordinance.

Contrary to incorrect speculation, we did contact Sul Ross about the initiative in 2020 and 2021. Sul Ross said they were busy, and someone would get back to us. Wren has been working with Sul Ross for several years to help bring their lights into compliance. Proper notification was made, meetings and townhall events were open to the public, and posted to the city’s website and YouTube page. We reached across the community to encourage participation. In the future, representatives with working relationships among city partners might want to do more too.

Retail availability of compliant lighting appliances depends on customer demand. Alpine has limited availability of many things, and lighting can be ordered as needed. Advocates will provide anyone who asks with information and resources to help make night sky friendly lighting choices. Everyone prefers education. Enforcement, fines, penalties should be a last resort.

The interim city manager believes the city is prepared. A persistent concern is providing proper information to permit applicants. City staff manages information integration, and we will continue to be available for discussion. The ordinance includes language enabling the city to ask for outside advice. McDonald Observatory is ready and willing to help.

Recognition awards from the observatory are available for businesses and organizations that follow good outdoor lighting practices. The city can apply to the International Dark Sky Association for recognition as a Dark Sky Community. Street signage announcing Alpine as a dark sky friendly town can be considered. We have a way to protect the night sky for future generations.

You can contact Wren or Stephen Hummel at the McDonald Observatory website with questions about outdoor lighting or retrofitting, and learn about the observatory’s 9.7 million acre International Dark Sky Reserve. Wishing you a starry night sky.

Laura Gold West Texas Friends of the Night Sky Alpine