The committee is working on proposed bylaw changes.
The committee is working with the Planning Board to address widespread compliance issues with sign lighting (signs being lit from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. when businesses are not open, and sign lights that shine into the sky or onto roads or neighboring lots --- see 6.3.1.3 of the zoning bylaws.
The committee has met with the Planning Board to discuss the relationship of light fixtures installed at Faxon Farm to the condition in the special permit.
The Light Pollution Subcommittee held a public hearing to gather input to formulate proposed changes and additions to Stow's bylaws. The hearing was held on April 28, 2004 in the Town Building.
At the hearing, the committee summarized existing bylaws (for example, 3.8.1.5 prohibits shining light onto a roadway or a neighboring property in a way that causes a hazard or nuisance). Then, input from the public will be requested, related to existing bylaws, possible future bylaws, and problematic situations not addressed by existing bylaws. The committee plans to propose bylaw changes for adoption at a fall Town Meeting.
The committee had a booth at Springfest. The booth presented information about the unintended effects of outdoor lights that shine towards the sky, roads, and neighboring properties, and included examples of outdoor lighting, both shielded and unshielded. The display also presented ways residents and business owners can reduce the amount of unwanted light directed both at the sky and at neighbors. Several residents talked with lighting committee members about lights that shine onto their properties.