Energy consumption by the lights on the square in downtown Washington can be reduced by 74 percent. According to Mike Roth with Sitlers Supplies, by installing LED lighting in the 98 fixtures on the square and on the Boulevard, expenses would be cut. City Administrator Brent Hinson explains it would cost approximately $13,000 to install the LED lights in the current fixtures after rebates from Alliant Energy and the product would pay for itself in about 18 months. The annual savings is estimated to be $9,000.

Roth says in addition to cutting costs, the product will not change the color of the light on the square and the product should last approximately 12 years with 11 hours of use daily.

Councilman Bob Shellmyer said he would like to get bids from other companies before agreeing to a purchase. The council directed staff to send requests for proposals and revisit the item in 30 days.