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Who Benefits?

Who benefits from overly-restrictive dark sky ordinances?

• Amateur astronomers and casual stargazers (though serious amateur astronomy is best conducted away from urban areas).
• Individuals and organizations who want others to conform to their idea of how people should live, i.e., being "closer to nature," slowing down the march of progress ... or whatever philosophy they believe dark skies will further.
• Lighting manufacturers and energy companies who will make money from the fixtures sold and increased energy usage that will in many cases result from restrictive ordinances.

Who benefits from well-thought-out, prospective (not retroactive) ordinances that balance the interests of everyone involved?

Everyone involved!

• Individuals and families who want the freedom to conduct business, engage in recreational activities, work, and pursue life after dark in safety.
• Businesses that want to be open on their customers' schedules, to create jobs, to make a profit, and to contribute their fair share to the tax revenues of the city, state, and federal governments.
• Municipalities, states, and the federal government who want — and need — the tax revenues from thriving and growing businesses.
• Police, security, and crime prevention organizations that want to prevent crime and keep citizens safe.
• Amateur astronomers and casual stargazers who want to slow down interference with their hobby activities.
• Everyone who respects the rights of others and wants to live in harmony with those of different interests.