City of Santa Maria
Santa Maria, California
Proclamation
WHEREAS, the natural beauty of Santa Maria, including its star -filled night sky, is valued by residents and visitors, inspiring wonder and fostering interest in science and nature among children and youth; and
WHEREAS, light pollution obscures the stars and has proven negative economic, environmental, and health impacts for plants, animals, and humans; and
WHEREAS, Santa Maria’s agriculture is affected by light pollution, which can disrupt pollination, plant growth, and crop yields; and
WHEREAS, local wildlife and natural areas are impacted, with light pollution disrupting migratory birds, nocturnal animals, and ecosystem health; and
WHEREAS, reducing light pollution can be achieved by direct ing outdoor lighting downward and using it only when necessary, and DarkSky International promotes these practices through International Dark Sky Week to benefit life on Earth.
NOW, THEREFORE, I ALICE M. PATINO, Mayor of the City of Santa Maria hereby proclaim the week of April 13 through 20, 2026 as:
“International Dark Sky Week”
in the City of Santa Maria , and I urge residents to learn about night sky friendly lighting, to implement practices and improvements that will reduce light pollution, and to look up and experience the wonder of the star-filled night.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and have caused the Seal of the City of Santa Maria to be affixed hereto this 7th day of April 2026.
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Alice M. Patino, Mayor