Council Weighs Arthur Avenue Streetlight Project

The proposal to install 14 “historically correct” streetlamps on Arthur Avenue took another step forward at the Lakewood City Council meeting on Monday night.

Council members voted to recommend a "resolution of necessity" for adoption. The next step is an ordinance that would assess new taxes to the residents of the street.

If OK’d, with those resembling early 1900s lamps along the street from Hilliard Road to Detroit Avenue.

Organizers say it will beautify the neighborhood, highlight the historic homes and could potentially raise property values.

“For me this goes beyond the aesthetics,” said Bryan Evans. “It shifts the way we look at our streets and the lighting.”

The proposal doesn’t sit well with about 20 residents in the neighborhood, who say they don’t want to shoulder the cost of the project, at an estimated $1,800 each. 

On Monday, seven residents spoke in favor of the proposal, while three voiced opposition.

That’s about the same percentage of Arthur Avenue residents who signed — and didn't sign — a petition to allow the project to move forward.

Laura Hammel, a resident of the street, brought up a couple of points, including proposing that all of other Arthur Avenue participate to bring the costs down further. 

“We have perfectly serviceable streetlights,” she said. “They are not attractive, but they work.”

About 30 percent of the residents don’t support it. 

Jennifer Elaban, a resident who attended the last council meeting, spoke out again. 

“For you to say that $1,800 is a reasonable amount,” she said, “I am embarrassed.”

Since the organizers filed a petition, council only needs a majority vote on the project for it to pass. Had organizers not obtained the petition, council would’ve needed a “super-majority” — or three-fourths of council. 

“Sometimes, whether it’s a national park or a paving our streets, not every one is supportive, but that’s why we live in a democracy,” said council president Brian Powers. 

If council wants to proceed with the assessment, it is required under city charter to create an ordinance, said Kevin Butler, the city’s law director. 

“This is the beginning of a process, not the end of one,” Butler added.