By Joni Simon
Contributing Writer

Bexar County Commissioners on July 22 approved a sweeping measure to require all new residential, commercial and office developments within a three-mile range of Camp Bullis to install so-called “dark sky” lighting to protect night vision training on the base from interruption.

The measure also urges existing homes and businesses in the area to comply with the decision, either by retrofitting their lighting with new “dark sky” technology or shutting off their lights between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. nightly.

Commissioner Lyle Larson, who represents the Northwest Bexar County area, said several neighborhoods, including The Dominion, have agreed to begin dimming their lights after dark immediately

“We have taken the first step to protect the missions that exercise and train at Camp Bullis,” Larson said. “Night vision training will be greatly enhanced as the residents and businesses of Bexar County reduce the amount of light that is being emitted in the sky around Camp Bullis.”

Fort Sam Houston Garrison Commander Col. Wendy Martinson urged commissioners to approve the new law, which was authorized by the 2007 session of the Texas Legislature.

Martinson said ground maneuver, night land navigation and aviation training use night vision equipment.

“If this order is not passed, these missions will be severely limited,” she said.

Martinson said existing lighting can remain in place if the fixtures are fitted with equipment that will focus the light downward, rather than outward. She said the move will benefit not just the Army post.

“Not only will it help preserve our night training capability, but residents will be able to sit in their back yards and enjoy seeing the stars. They will be able to sleep at night without dark curtains on their windows to screen out the harsh commercial and street lighting.”

But some concerns were raised about the new regulations, concerns that Larson said will be addressed when the Joint Land Use Study is completed within the coming six months.

Steve Hannen, president-elect of the Real Estate Council of Greater San Antonio, which represents the development community, said turning off lighting could lead to safety issues.

“With the reduction in lighting, it may create safety concerns for retail customers and employees, as parking areas will not be as well illuminated under the order,” Hannen said.

He said the law conflicts with current laws regarding lighting in areas open to the public.

“The Texas Banking Standards recommend minimum lighting requirement near ATMs and night depositories. In addition, any regulation that requires that lighting be dimmed after 11 p.m. would cause problems because many retail businesses leave their lights on for two hours after closing to provide for the safety of employees and cleaning crews.

Michael Moore, president of the Greater San Antonio Builders Association, said the builders were neglected in the drawing up of the new law and called on county officials to include the builders in future drafts of the order.

Both men said they support the Camp Bullis military mission and will work with Commissioners to fine-tune the new law.