They may want to shed some light on problem

BAXTER - The city of Baxter is joining the great streetlight debate.

Unlike the city of Brainerd, which had considered shutting off a few streetlights as part of a six-month pilot project, Baxter is having its staff look at developing a policy about where new streetlights would go.

The issue came before the Baxter City Council on Wednesday after the city received a petition from about 25 residents on Cottage Grove Drive, Camden Road and Northwoods to install three streetlights on slight curves in the roadways.

The council accepted the petition but tabled action on the streetlight request to allow staff time to determine the financial implications of installing streetlights. Public Works Director Trevor Walter said it costs the city about $125 per light per year for operation.

Council member Jim Klein said if it's a matter of safety he was for streetlights but he didn't want homes flooded with light.

Walter said current policy concerning streetlights puts them at all intersections, all cul-de-sacs and at 90-degree corners. Council member Rob Moser said the city should look at changing its streetlight policy.

"I don't think we'll get an overrun of people wanting lights," Moser said.

Council member Todd Holman said the comprehensive plan addressed some streetlight issues, including shielding them from sending light pollution into the night sky.

"We need to be consistent about it," Holman said.

In other action, the council:

Amended city ordinance with a 4-1 vote to have all residents not hooked up to water or sewer where it's available to be hooked up within three years. The council also directed staffers to review nonuser rates for possible increases. Staff had proposed forcing nonusers to hook up within six years, but Klein said that was too lenient. Moser voted against, saying the intent was good but the timeline was too aggressive.

Approved the Kiwanis Kids Triathlon for Aug. 28 at Whipple Beach Park and accepted a $1,000 donation from the Kiwanis Club for the event.

Adopted a policy for naming or renaming city parks. Names can be recommended by individuals or the Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration by the council.

Approved setting up a public informational hearing at a date to be determined later concerning a request from Sprint-Nextel for a cell tower at the city's public works facility site. The council also directed staff to work on a lease.

Adjourned to the council's annual planning session at 9 a.m. on Feb. 13.

MATT ERICKSON may be reached at matt.erickson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5857.