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Mayor Webber Defends Public Works Director Against "Personal Attacks" on Streetlight Conversion Project

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber has spoken out against what he describes as personal attacks on Public Works Director Regina Wheeler, who is leading the city's streetlight conversion project. The project aims to convert 5,600 high-pressure sodium bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs, with a goal of going carbon neutral by 2040. The project has sparked controversy, particularly among dark-sky advocates, who have raised concerns about the proper lighting specifications needed to protect the city's nighttime vistas.

Key Takeaways:

  • The city's streetlight conversion project involves the replacement of 5,600 high-pressure sodium bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs, at a cost covered by energy savings.
  • The project aims to reduce energy consumption by over 60% and the overall lumen budget by over 50%.
  • A streetlight steering committee was formed to gather community input, but the names of its members and meetings were initially kept from the public.
  • The committee had two meetings, only one of which was open to the public, and some members felt there was not enough time to actively vet and discuss the project.
  • Public Works Director Regina Wheeler has defended the procurement process in selecting Dalkia Energy Solutions and stated that the city's actions fell in line with local and state statutes.
  • The project has garnered approximately 220 responses through the city's website, with the majority coming from residents in Districts 1 and 2.
  • Mayor Webber has accused some community members of character assassination and misogyny towards Wheeler, who he described as one of the most qualified and diligent community-minded managers the city has ever had.

Statistics:

  • 5,600 high-pressure sodium bulbs will be replaced with energy-efficient LEDs.
  • The project aims to reduce energy consumption by over 60%.
  • The overall lumen budget is expected to be reduced by over 50%.
  • Approximately 220 responses were gathered through the city's website during the community outreach process.
  • The majority of responses (over 60%) came from residents in Districts 1 and 2.

Sources:

  • "Santa Fe mayor criticizes criticism of public works director" by the Santa Fe New Mexican (no date)
  • City documents and memos related to the streetlight conversion project.
  • Interviews with Mayor Alan Webber and Public Works Director Regina Wheeler.

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