Develop Policy for Installation of Non-Priority Street Lights

Over the past several months staff has received several inquires asking how to get additional street lights in residential areas that have none, or limited at best.  Our current policy allows for "priority lighting" at  intersections where residential roads intersect with high speed roads to alert drivers of the approaching intersection.  Our newer developments are also equipped with residential lighting, but the older developments and streets in our community often have no lighting.  Normally the requests come from someone new to the neighborhood and who has moved from a more urban/suburban environment or from someone who is paying for priority street lighting, but feels they are not receiving any benefit for the money they pay into the fund.

15 Minutes

Opinions on street lighting can vary greatly  from resident to resident in the same neighborhood.  Some residents feel they provide extra security for homeowners and safety for motorists and pedestrians, while some residents see them as light pollution and are opposed to any additional lights in their neighborhood. Staff contacted Dan Johnson of  Connexus Energy for some possible estimated costs and received the following information-" 

 

The most common residential street light is the “traditionaire”.  The current cost for this light and pole is $1,441.  There would also be footage costs, which are based on distance to nearest feed and whether we need to directional bore.  If it’s directional boring we’re looking at $17 per foot.  The residential street lights typically light up about 50’ side to side and forward, with less light on the back side. 

Also, due to the time of year I need to mention that winter charges can be in effect from November 1^st to April 1^st."  Connexus Energy can supply private security "yard lights" and that may satisfy some of the requests for additional lighting.  If the concern is at a dark intersection we may be able to use an existing power pole for the installation, there by reducing the cost. 

Staff feels the greater concern may be with neighborhood agreeing on the need for additional lighting.  Staff feels that some type of petition should be required from the effected residents before we consider installing a street light.  Staff is proposing if the light is to be located at an intersection, all residents in a 300' radius must sign the petition to be considered for installation.  If the request is for a mid block installation the distance would be 300' lineal in each direction, plus an equal distance on the opposite side of the road. Once the proper petition is received, the request would be brought back to the PW committee for further discussion.
 

Street Light Utility Fund

Staff is recommending a petition be required from adjacent property owners before a non priority street light can be considered for installation. Staff recommends if the light is to be located at an intersection, all residents in a 300' radius must sign the petition to be considered for installation.  Staff also recommends if the request is for a mid block installation, the distance would be 300' lineal in each direction, plus an equal distance on the opposite side of the road. Once the proper petition is received the request would be brought back to the PW committee for further discussion.
 

Motion to accept the staff recommendation, or reject the staff recommendation, and approve an alternative based on committee discussion.