Title
Consider recommending the City Council issue a proclamation for 'Lights Out, Texas' to protect migratory birds; and take appropriate action
Body
BACKGROUND:
The Sustainability Plan recommends actions to reduce light pollution. To increase public awareness and encourage residents and businesses to reduce light pollution, the City Council issued a proclamation for “Lights Out, Texas” in April 2023. The Lights Out, Texas program encourages residents to turn off non-essential lights at night from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during migration periods. The peak migration period for the spring is April 22 - May 12.
Audubon Texas anticipates that one of three migrating birds this spring will fly through Texas. Reducing the amount of light pollution during peak migration can significantly reduce bird fatalities during this time. Turning off non-essential lighting has the further benefit of reducing energy usage.
ACTIONS:
1. Motion to provide a recommendation from the Sustainability Committee that the City Council issue a proclamation for Lights Out, Texas.
2. Motion to table the issue for further study or take no action
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 2024 DRAFT - Lights Out Proclamation