Light Towers Outside West Orange Library Raise Concerns, Town Says 'No Health Threat'

WEST ORANGE, NJ — Three portable light towers outside the West Orange Public Library have been thrust into the spotlight themselves.

The lights became a topic of conversation at the town council meeting on Aug. 12, when councilwoman Joyce Rudin asked for more details about the large, diesel-powered machines outside the library – including the cost of renting them.

Watch footage from the Aug. 12 council meeting below (video is cued to the discussion about the lights).

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West Orange township administrators issued an update about the lights on Thursday. The statement reads:

“In the name of public health and safety, West Orange Health Director Michael Fonzino responded to an anonymous complaint filed with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). It was subsequently filed following concerns raised at the August 12 council meeting and reported in the local press. The Essex Regional Health Commission was contacted to conduct a complaint investigation.

“It was found that the three portable diesel-fueled light towers located at 10 Rooney Circle fully comply with all state, county, and local environmental regulations. Each unit operates at 5.2 kilowatts (kW), well below the 37kW threshold that would require an air pollution control permit from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP). Based on their size and operating capacity, these units do not require any county or local air pollution permits.

“The public can be assured that no laws have been violated and there is no threat to public health or safety. The light towers at 10 Rooney Circle are small, temporary units specifically designed for minimal environmental impact. Their operation does not create air quality concerns or pose any risk to the surrounding community.

“Although these light towers are fully compliant and safe, township officials are actively exploring alternative lighting options that are more environmentally friendly. This matter was discussed at the August 12 township council meeting, with a focus on identifying the most cost-effective solutions moving forward.

“Public health, safety, environmental responsibility, and fiscal accountability remain top priorities for the West Orange Health Department and township officials, who are committed to transparency and keeping residents well-informed.”

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