Crest Hill goes green with new lighting
By erin Biesen Correspondent January 9, 2013 11:52AM
Updated: February 15, 2013 6:07AM
Will Crest Hill’s new green lighting be green enough? That was the question raised by Ward 2 Alderwoman Claudia Gazal as the city council last Monday discussed a bid to replace all indoor lighting at City Hall.
The new green light fixtures will be paid for through a grant from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Fund and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.
Streets Superintendent Brent Cann sought approval for the labor bid, $5,338, and material bid, $11,081, to replace all the indoor lighting.
The city would be responsible for $900 since the rest would be covered by the grant. However, Cann said if the city approved the bids Monday the companies were hopeful the job could be completed by Feb. 14, which would result in the city receiving an additional 14 percent savings.
The new bulbs use less energy, give off less heat and contain little to no mercury and are cheaper.
Gazal was concerned the city was not doing enough to research the best energy-saving options. She felt the city needed to look at LED lighting, especially after the city watched a presentation from another company.
Cann said that working with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus taught him a bit about lighting. Through his research, Cann discovered LED lighting is a good option for external lighting, but when it comes to indoor lighting it is not the best option.
Delaying the process would not allow the city to meet the additional savings deadline of Feb. 14.
Ward 4 Alderman Tom Inman said, “If we let this Feb. 14 date pass we have to pay. Let’s get this done for free.” The council approved the bids.
In other news:
City council passed a resolution recognizing the seventh-grade girls basketball team from Richland Grade School for their fourth place at the IESA State Tournament.
City stickers are on sale and can be purchased at City Hall during regular business hours. Stickers must be purchased and displayed on vehicles by March 31.
