Select Board recommends petitioned outdoor‑lighting bylaw for town meeting

Dan Silverman presented a petitioned outdoor‑lighting bylaw that would restrict light trespass, limit sky glow and require shielding and downlighting; the draft follows a Massachusetts model and closely tracks Nantucket's existing bylaw. Silverman framed the proposal around preserving dark skies and preventing lights that “spill” onto neighbors and into roadways.

Board members, counsel and members of the public discussed enforcement, business sign needs, municipal compliance and whether fines should be daily or per violation; counsel noted the draft contains a per‑day violation provision. Some board members suggested adding financial‑hardship and ADA exemptions and recommended refining enforcement language. The Select Board voted to recommend the petitioned article as submitted and to reconsider amendments at town meeting if necessary.