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CMP Part 3A. Environmental Protection Plan <br /> QUALITY OF LIFE PRESERYATION <br /> Orono's primarily residential character has resulted in an environment that is <br /> relatively free from the noise pollution of major roadways, the light pollution of <br /> commercial and industrial development, and other negative impacts such as <br /> odors, vibration, toxic emissions, glare and visual clutter that are common in <br /> non-residential areas. The residents of Orono place a high value on the quality <br /> of life provided by the lack of such negative impacts. <br /> The City of Orono is committed to preserving the qualities that make Orono an <br /> attractive residential community while providing an adequate level of the <br /> necessary services, commerce and industries required to support the community. <br /> Preservation of Dark Skies <br /> A key element that adds to the quality of life in Orono is its dark ni h� t sky. The <br /> abilitv to view a naturallv dark, star-filled sk�s a precious resource as valuable <br /> as our forested landscapes and our fresh air and clean water. But this inspiring <br /> amenity can be easilv lost in the presence of inappr�o riate and unnecessary <br /> outdoor li�htin� <br /> While artificial li�htin� is clearly needed to allow us to see our way in the <br /> darkness, the quality of that lightin�can have a profound effect on our ni�ht-time <br /> securitv and enjoyment. Three of the most serious problems associated with <br /> outdoor lightin�include lag re, light trespass, and sk,y_ l�ow. <br /> Glare. One of the basic premises of effective lightin� is to illuminate onl� � <br /> we wish to see. When we see a distant point of light, we are seeing light from <br /> the fixture rather thasi what the light is intended to illuminate. We are observing <br /> �lare that can severel�per the vision of drivers, pedestrians boaters and <br /> cyclists, creatin� a hazard rather than increasing safety. Glare can be an <br /> annovance as well as an energy-waster. Poorlv-desianed fixtures can waste 30- <br /> 40 percent of the li h�y produce b larina onto nei h��_properties and <br /> into the night sk� <br /> Li�ht Trespass. Li�ht trespass is li�ht from a source on one propert�pilling <br /> onto an adjacent or nearb�property where it ma� be unwanted and unneeded. <br /> Common sources of li�ht trespass are streetlights and home securit�i�g_ <br /> Poorly desi�ned outdoor liahtinQ shines out into the nei�hborhood, illuminating <br /> areas that were not intended to be lit, shining into bedroom windows and <br /> disturbin�p, creating an unattractive look to the area. <br /> City of Orono Communit,y Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 3A-41 <br />