By Jessica Rands

SMITHFIELD -- Kris Monson brought a resolution urging light pollution prevention to her fellow City Council members for discussion Wednesday.

The resolution, in its first draft, would set new standards for domestic and commercial lighting that would help Smithfield's night sky remain lighted only by the stars, not by deflected light from street lamps and neon signs.

"I think it's a great idea. I'm all for it," said Mayor Ray Winn.

If the bill passes, it will encourage Smithfield residents to use lower wattage on outdoor lighting and to point their lights down instead of outward towards the street or neighbors' homes. It will also use more effective lighting on street lamps. They will use less wattage but more effective lighting that will light the street below, not deflect into the sky.

"It will actually be less expensive," says Monson. "It will use less energy and light the streets better, but preserve our beautiful night sky."

Monson said that there are many reasons why monitoring light is so important. Poorly directed and overly bright light prevents the study of astronomy, wastes energy and money, causes a glare while driving at night, and can actually affect your health.

"Only when it's completely dark can your body can only produce melatonin, a hormone that aids your immune system. Melatonin fights diseases including breast cancer and prostate cancer," said Monson. "You won't produce melatonin if your neighbor's porch light is shining in your window."

The light at night can also have the same affect on animals' immune systems.

Although the bill will only require voluntary compliance, it will also enforce a nuisance code. For example, if a neighbor's light is shining in your window at night, it can be reported and the proper authority will contact the neighbor and ask them to reposition their light.

Janice Mikkelson announced that the Smithfield library will be having Dr. Seuss Days next week, which will feature a read-in and will encourage kids to read. Members of the community, including the fire chief, will be at the library to read to younger children.

Clark Draper was appointed as the planning commission alternate and Jackie Hancock was appointed as a city youth council adviser. The Council voted for both Draper and Hancock unanimously.

Three bids were placed on the old fire house, but the council has yet to accept one.

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