Breckenridge is plowing ahead with its Dark Sky International lighting ordinance, requiring homeowners to replace or retrofit outdoor lights. The goal — less light pollution, more stars, reduced wildlife disruption — is noble, but the rollout is unfair and shortsighted.

Residents were given one year to comply. The town, however, granted itself until 2030 to update its own streetlights and municipal fixtures. If protecting the night sky is urgent enough to fine homeowners this coming winter, why does the town get five extra years?

Safety is another blind spot. Breckenridge isn’t just quaint streets and ski runs. It’s also bears, moose, icy sidewalks, and dark mountain nights. I regularly see people two blocks off Main Street walking home with phone flashlights because public lighting is inadequate. Before cracking down on porch lights, the town should invest in safe, well-placed lighting to protect residents and visitors.

The town’s approach continues to put residents last. The ordinance was first passed in 2007, but only revived in 2024. Residents never voted on it. Communication has been inconsistent. I personally never received the promised notice and only learned of the deadline through an HOA property manager. Meanwhile, commercial resorts like Hilton’s Valdoro continue blasting floodlights into neighborhoods, while homeowners are threatened with fines over modest porch lights.

Breckenridge can and should pursue Dark Sky goals. But fairness requires equal deadlines for the town, resorts, and residents; adequate public lighting before private penalties; and meaningful community input, not dusty ordinances from 2007.

Until then, residents should speak up. Show up at council meetings. Write letters. Ask why the town holds you to a higher standard than itself.