Are Dark Sky Rules Making People Feel Less Safe?
ISLIP, NY (WCBS 880/1010 WINS) - Newly imposed "dark sky" rules are getting a second look in one Long Island town.
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WCBS 880 Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs reports
Under the argument that brighter lights make people feel safer, Islip town officials are considering amendments to its newly imposed dark sky rules.
Jeremy is one homeowner and businessman opposed to the tougher lighting restrictions. He applauds the amendments.
"More light is better," Jeremy tells WCBS 880 Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs. "I own a landscaping business and I've been robbed blind lately."
Some argue the dark sky rules are healthier for people and the environment.
"They prescribe certain light levels on the ground for safety, when you don't have enough light you can't see well and when you have too much light you're simply wasting energy," Susan Harder of the Dark Sky Society told 1010 WINS.
"I think it's misinformation coupled with a slight amount of paranoia, you know, just a general fear of the dark," Harder added. "It's a shame because none of these dark sky lighting regulations produce unsafe conditions."
The town supervisor says the amendments will be considered.
