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October 8, 2026 at 2:03 pm

JACKSONVILLE, Ore. – A proposal by the Medford School District to install perimeter lighting at Jacksonville Elementary School is heading back to the Jacksonville City Council on November 3rd. The district’s initial plan to install fifteen 15-foot-tall LED light fixtures around the campus parking lot was denied earlier this year, creating an ongoing debate between security needs and neighborhood dark-sky preservation.

The district originally sought the lights to improve visibility for evening activities, protect employees walking to their cars, and enhance security camera effectiveness. However, the Historic and Architectural Review Commission rejected the application in May, finding the fixtures incompatible with the adjacent residential area and insufficiently designed to minimize light pollution. While the district appealed that decision in July by emphasizing safety vulnerabilities, neighbors remain staunchly opposed to the illumination.

Residents living near the 655 Hueners Lane campus cite privacy intrusions and fear that light will spill directly into their bedrooms. “I think any lighting there that’s all the time is intrusive,” neighbor Rick Street said, noting his home sits approximately 50 feet from the proposed light source. Other residents point out that police already patrol the area at night. Many recall disliking temporary construction lights placed on campus over a year ago. Some neighbors remain hopeful a compromise can be reached that improves safety while respecting homeowners surrounding the property.

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