GROVELAND, Fla. – The city of Groveland is considering a plan that would replace hundreds of street lights to maintain the city’s status as a dark sky community.

On Monday, council members will vote to replace 783 light fixtures from Duke Energy that don’t meet the city’s dark sky lighting standards.

In 2023, Groveland became the first community in Florida and the Southeastern United States to become a certified International Dark Sky Community (IDSC).

According to the DarkSky organization, the recognition is awarded to municipalities that make significant efforts to minimize light pollution and protect the natural darkness of the night sky.

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Daniel Corsi is the owner of Groveland Exchange and said he was happy to hear about the plan to reduce the city’s light pollution.

“Light pollution upsets the natural balance of a lot of pollinators and a lot of small animals,” Corsi said. “We have Orlando that puts a ton of light out, and Tampa puts a lot of light out. We’re right in the middle of that, and we have this beautiful dark corridor.”

According to the council agenda, the plan to replace the light fixtures would save the city money due to energy efficiency of dark sky lighting fixtures.

Groveland currently spends $13,020.12 per month to lease the 783 fixtures, which includes maintenance and electricity.

The monthly estimate for the proposed replacement lighting is $12,228.96, which is a savings of $791.16 per month.

“In the case that it’s both financially prudent and it’s conserving our night sky, I’m all about it,” Corsi said.

The proposal to replace the light fixtures is part of the city council’s consent agenda, which will be addressed at the council chambers on Monday at 7 p.m.