Law not necessary to keep sky dark

Barrington Hills' effort to become certified as only the third Dark Sky Community in the nation is certainly intriguing.

Who wouldn't want to rid the night sky over their community of most of its current excess light? There's something peaceful and romantic about looking up at that ink-black sky and seeing millions of stars.

But it isn't as simple as flipping a switch.

To gain that designation, Barrington Hills would have to impose new lighting standards from changing the type of outdoor fixtures and bulbs used in town to limiting the number of hours the lights are on.

That move comes with a host of practical concerns: cost to residents; potential effects on crime and safety; uncertain results, considering the village's location in a populated suburban area.

And it raises at least one sticky question: Is it necessary to do this with a law?

We don't think so.

We agree with Village President Robert Abboud, who said he thinks people are wary of having the government place too many restrictions on the community.

"I don't think there's a mayor on this planet who wants to make new ordinances," he said.

The ordinance now being discussed calls for minimizing unnecessary outdoor lighting. It has limitations on lumens per acre, the direction lights are pointed and the number of hours lights can remain on.

Supporters say there are benefits to eliminating light pollution for science, the environment, property values and even personal health (light at night stops body production of the hormone melatonin; a lack of it has been linked to high rates of cancer and obesity).

They contend Barrington Hills' effort is more about maintaining its rural character than it is about joining Flagstaff, Ariz., and Borrego Springs, Calif., as designated Dark Sky communities.

They also argue many concerns identified by opponents aren't insurmountable.

For example, they say, shields to bring outdoor lights into compliance cost only $5 to $15. And most crime in the village occurs during the day. The village's public buildings and roads are already compliant, so no further cost is needed.

Dark Sky is a neat idea, and certainly one in line with Barrington Hills' image and character.

But as this issue winds its way through public hearings and debate, we urge officials to study the concerns raised and other options available for implementation.

One might be to create a community group to promote a grass-roots campaign. Another, suggested by Abboud, is allowing social pressure to push the goal of reducing light pollution.

Whatever route it takes, this effort should be citizen-driven, not a government directive.