Lights On For DJFL

The utilization of lights at town playing fields has been highly contested for a long time.

Proponents say that lighting the fields is necessary to ensure safe practices, especially for high-contact sports like football. Opponents, particularly neighbors whose homes abut the fields, say that the lights are too bright, too loud (when they are run by generators) and overall, too intrusive.

Brought before the Planning & Zoning Commission is a temporary—albeit unsatisfactory—fix. The compromise is this: a few, 20-foot-high, AC-powered portable lights, which will light the fields in late October and early November when daylight savings significantly shortens practice time.

On Oct. 6, P&Z approved the Darien Junior Football League’s application for such lights at Holahan Field; and on Monday, Oct. 26, at approximately 5:30 p.m., DJFL Chairman for the Lights Proposal Guy T. Wisinski flipped the switch, lighting the field for the first time this year.

"One, two, three. Let there be light," said Wisinski.

Both DJFL President Dick Albu and Wisinski have been in close discussion neighbors of Holahan Field, encouraging them to come forward with questions and concerns.

"We had some constructive comments from a neighbor to adjust the light to face more toward the Town Hall.  We are making that adjustment and hopefully will satisfy their request," said Albu. "I'm sure we will be getting more suggestions along the way."

Wisinski added that the DJFL will continue to work with the neighbors and “make adjustments as needed.”