Car dealership lights not conserving power, says Calgarian

A Calgary man is complaining that lights from nearby car dealerships are not only an eyesore, but they go against power conservation recommendations.

Wayne Newby said during a cold spell, like the one much of Alberta is having this week, citizens are being asked to save power. However many business do not seem to be following suit, he said.

"Out of all the things that we can actually change, which we're even asked to do in this cold spell — we're all asked, 'Don't turn on power' … it's so simple: just turn them down," said Newby, who lives in West Hillhurst.

A city bylaw only relates to lighting that affects neigbouring properties. Since there are no homes near the dealerships, the city cannot order the businesses to turn off their lights.

Ward Seven Ald. Druh Farrel said light pollution is an issue that needs to be addressed.

"Cities around the world are starting to recognize this as a health issue and a safety issue, it can be very distracting to drivers for example and it's perhaps time to reopen the discussion and look at light trespass as a planning issue," Farrel said.

Newby agrees, adding that driving near the Bow River by 19th Street at night is frustrating because of the strong lights that come from the Renfrew Chysler dealership.

"The only thing you can see in your direct vision is the lights that come from Renfrew Chrysler," Newby said.

Farrel said she plans to take the issue to council.