Controversial Lights At Tatlock Fields Approved By Summit

SUMMIT, NJ — A $1.2 million contract for lights at Upper Tatlock and Investors Bank Fields was approved on Tuesday after long being the subject of scrutiny for its potential impact on the neighborhood.

"This is a big night for Summit sports and our entire community," said Councilmember Kevin Smallwood, opening up the discussion about the lights. "The vision of lighting Tatlock began nearly a decade ago with the Tatlock Redevelopment Plan."

After a near-unanimous vote, Musco Sports Lighting LLC was awarded the project by Common Council. While benefitting the flexibility of scheduling and safety for the many athletic programs that use the facilities, the plan continues to have its naysayers.

At the center of the concerns are the high-powered lights remaining on and the noise created by games that may extend into the late hours of the night. "Many of the concerns of the concerns we've heard extend beyond lighting, and we remain fully committed to continuing the dialogue and resolving those issues that matter to our neighbors," added Smallwood.

Councilmember Michelle Kalmanson was the lone member to vote against the approval of the lights on Tuesday. During the meeting, she accused her fellow councilmembers of undermining multiple issues and said she believes, "The city must enter into a binding agreement with the residents in the neighborhood that establishes when and how the lighting is used before any construction begins."

According to Smallwood, members have met with residents on four different occasions since February to hear their concerns and address ways to incorporate the project without hindering the community.

"Tonight...we are delivering on a shared vision," Smallwood said. "One that supports our student-athletes, strengthens our community, and ensures Tatlock remains a source of Hilltopper pride for years to come."

Also coming into question is the methods in which the project is being funded. In early September, Common Council approved a $500,000 anonymous donation made through the Summit Foundation.

The private nonprofit says its goal is to use philanthropy to better the lives of members within the community it serves. Donations through the group can remain anonymous, a point that caused great debate among the public and city officials during the meeting.

"I do remain disturbed by the process," said Councilmember Claire Toth. "Anonymous donations lack accountability and can erode public trust in the government...it is lawful, for now."

In response, a resident involved with starting an online petition to generate funding for the fields addressed the room, adding that he was one of the donors. He told the crowd that, "There's nothing here...but to move this project forward and light those fields."

As to why donors asked to be anonymous, he revealed that some of his fellow donors have been receiving harassment from multiple people who are opposed to the project.

The resolution allowing private donations for Lower Tatlock on Butler Parkway was approved in July. At that same July 29 meeting, Council approved $650,000 in city funding through the $5.5 million Bond Ordinance 25-3349 for the Upper Tatlock Field lights.

Patch has reached out to an advocacy group that has voiced concerns about the project, "United for Tatlock Neighborhood," for Tuesday's approval of the lighting contract.

The Summit Law and Labor Committee is currently finalizing an ordinance that will ensure responsible use, balancing athletic needs with neighborhood impact.

An estimated completion date for the project has not been finalized.

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