DEAR SUN SPOTS: A few years ago there was a Central Maine Power Co. phone number to call for reporting burned-out streetlight bulbs.

Since there is no longer a number listed for such service, whom can I notify to report a bulb replacement, which is needed at the corner of Shepley and Carroll streets in Auburn? — No Name, Auburn

ANSWER: This is one of those interesting questions that teaches Sun Spots as well as readers.

Sun Spots began her research at Auburn Public Works, which referred her to city electrician Charlie DeAngelis, who kindly took the time to explain how the streetlight business works.

CMP currently still owns the streetlights, but many towns have leasing arrangements with them. These leasing arrangements vary greatly, but in Auburn’s case, Charlie said that the city pays CMP a leasing fee for the lights as well as for the power they use, but CMP still maintains the lights.

He said most people contact him if a bulb is burned out, and he then passes the information on to CMP, which replaces the bulb, usually within a few days. The amount of time can vary. If they aren’t busy, it might be right away. During an ice storm, it probably won’t happen for a while.

Charlie said Lewiston has a different arrangement, with its Public Works Department taking charge of the changing of the bulbs, so you can call them directly.

Interestingly, individuals can also lease a streetlight. Say there is no light by your house, but you want one. You can make arrangements to have one installed and rent it from CMP. You will also have to pay for the electricity, of course.

This system may be undergoing some changes in the future to allow towns to buy the streetlights instead of leasing them. Charlie said that option is currently under review by the Public Utilities Commission.

As for the original question — How to report a burned-out streetlight? — you have several options.

* Go to the online Report It page for Auburn at www.auburnmaine.org/ReportIt. You fill out a simple form and then use the drop-down menu to choose “Streetlights.” (You can also use this website to report crimes, potholes and many other issues.)

* Call Charlie at 207-333-6601, ext. 1152.

* Email Charlie at cdeangelis@auburnmaine.gov.

* Call CMP’s customer service at 800-565-3181 (instead of the main line, 800-750-4000). You will get an option to talk to a customer service representative (press 0), who can take the information.

Charlie said it is very helpful, although not essential, if you can provide the little metal number that is on the utility pole where the bulb is out when you call to report the outage. This is particularly helpful if it is a long stretch of road with many poles.

As for the outage No Name mentioned, Sun Spots gave that information to Charlie, and the light should be back on soon. 

DEAR SUN SPOTS: Does anyone (including Mrs. Sun Spots) know where I can get a mailbox-like receptacle labeled “Sun Journal” that I can install for the delivery folks outside my driveway to make it easier for them this winter. Many thanks for any help. — Carolyn, virusone@earthlink.net

ANSWER: Sun Spots consulted with the Sun Journal’s Bill McCarthy, head of transportation, and Circulation Director Mike Theriault.

They said if you live on a rural route where the delivery location is roadside, the delivery carrier will install a newspaper “tube” for you at a location that affords delivery access. These are provided at no cost to the subscriber.

If you are on a foot- or door-delivered route, you can buy a wall-hanging newspaper box, in the choice of two colors, from the Sun Journal. The receptacle is weather protected and comes with screws to attach to the house.

The Sun Journal sells them at cost for $11. Please call 207-784-3555 should you have any questions regarding this.

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Please include your phone number. Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be emailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.

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