Letters to the Editor 3/15/2022

Save dark skies

To the Editor:

First off I would like to commend the Sisters High School Astronomy Club students who want to save our dark skies. Being one who moved from the big city/bright lights six years ago, one of the many things I love about Central Oregon is being able to see the stars and planets. Being able to look at the stars makes me feel connected to the world; just think how many people all around the world can be looking at the same thing together.

For these reasons, I feel we can work as a community to ensure we will continue to have these cosmic experiences.

In Sisters there is so much new construction, which means more nighttime lights. For example, I live behind a new apartment complex that is under construction; two of five buildings are complete; each of these buildings will have 10 apartments. The outdoor lighting is blinding; it can be seen blocks away, and I can’t imagine what it will look like once all five buildings are complete.

My little community has contacted the city planner and has requested that the developer of the property replace the lighting with lower wattage, different light fixtures, etc., anything that can reduce the brightness. Small but not adequate improvements have been made with lighting somewhat reduced. I feel if developers are informed of our Dark Sky Ordinance by the planning department, and the department enforces these rules, it would be a win-win for everyone.

Let’s be proactive vs. reactive. Let’s all support what our Sisters High School Astronomy Club members are advocating and save our dark skies.

Chris Carr