Cave Creek Council Rejects DarkSkyInternational Designation

By Brent Ruffner
Independent Newsmedia

The Cave Creek Town Council voted against pursuing DarkSky International designation on Monday, a status held by other Arizona towns like Flagstaff and Sedona.

The decision followed a lengthy discussion where residents debated the merits of the designation. The council’s meeting lasted over three hours, with numerous residents expressing their viewpoints before the final vote, which ended with a 5-2 outcome.

DarkSky International aims to protect the night sky through education and community engagement. Mayor Bob Morris noted that advocates for dark skies had revived the discussion after previous attempts were rejected by the council. Town Planner Steven Perales presented potential benefits of the designation during the meeting.

Proponents, including Councilor Dusty Rhoades, argued that the recognition could enhance the town’s appeal and help preserve the night sky. “We are already dark sky compliant,” Rhoades said. “Not becoming a dark sky town makes no sense. There is recognition that comes with it.”

Opponents, however, raised concerns about the practical implications of the designation. Resident Steve Mosshart questioned, “Who does it benefit?” He argued that nighttime lighting is essential for animals like horses.

During the meeting, over ten residents displayed “No DSI” signs, indicating their disapproval of the measure. While some state officials see value in dark sky communities for tourism, others, like Councilor Joe Freedman, contend that stringent local ordinances are sufficient for maintaining dark skies. Freedman stated, “There is no need for an outside organization to be involved with our lighting ordinances.”