VENTURA : Panel to Discuss Stadium Lights

A group of homeowners that has been seeking for a year to get the stadium lights lowered at Ventura High School asked Ventura Unified School District board members Tuesday to form a committee to study the idea.

Despite staff recommendations that the current lights are the best option for stadium security and illuminating track and field events, board members agreed to meet with members of the Hillside Homeowners group to discuss their concerns.

Board members John Walker and Vincent Ruiz volunteered to serve on the committee.

Residents in the neighborhood surrounding Ventura High’s Larrabee Stadium in the 2200 block of Poli Street have charged that four new stadium lights are too tall, block ocean views, reflect sunshine during the day and shine into their homes during nighttime events.

The 60-member group suggested forming a committee of two board members and two homeowners who would visit Nordhoff High School in Ojai to look at that school’s stadium lights, which are about 70 feet tall.

Members of the homeowners group have said lowering the lights would cost about $20,000, and they have offered to help raise funds to pay for the modification.