Sumter County will work with SECO Energy to address complaints about new LED streetlights that shine too brightly into nearby homes.
Responsibility for streetlights on many regional roads in the Villages of Southern Oaks was transferred to the county from the Developer several years ago.
As the customer, that means the county may determine lighting needs.
Kathy Judkins, SECO’s vice president of communications, told commissioners at a workshop last month that the cooperative is replacing sodium street lights with 2,700-lumen LEDs throughout its system to comply with federal law.
In an April 24 letter to Arnold and commissioners, Judkins wrote that resident preferences may vary.
“While some residents may experience concerns with brightness or light intrusion, others may prefer the enhanced visibility and sense of safety,” she wrote.
Village of Charlotte resident Karen Gentry told commissioners in March that brighter street lights along Morse Boulevard are shining into her window, making it difficult to sleep.
County Administrator Bradley Arnold said the problem involves more than Gentry.
“There was more than a single complaint that we’ve recorded,” he told commissioners Tuesday night.
Possible fixes include dimmer LED bulbs or pole removal.
On a long term basis, Arnold said the county could investigate a solar energy lighting system.
As a first step, the county will conduct field verification of complaints.
“We are looking at the specific complaint areas,” Arnold said.