Lathrop elected leaders are looking at spending $1.4 million to secure net savings of $10.6 million over 20 years when it comes to paying for electricity for city street lights.

The council when they meet Monday at 6 p.m. will consider hiring Tanko Streetlighting Inc. for $262,185 to handle steps needed before the conversion of city street lights can be put to bid

Lathrop has 2,500 city-owned streetlights.

Of those, 1,616 — roughly 72 percent — are high-pressure sodium fixtures known for producing a distinct, intense yellow-orange glow and are recognized for their high efficiency and longevity.

There has been a notable jump in work orders submitted by residents reporting dim or non-functioning streetlights.

There have been 72 work orders to date in the current fiscal year regarding streetlights with the HPS fixtures.

The newer LED technology is more reliable, easier to secure replacements as well as to install them, and also have longer life that the HPS technology. The HPS fixtures are not only cumbersome to replace but they take three months or longer to obtain.

The annual electricity savings is projected at $330,000 after the upfront replacement costs are factored in.

Overall, the 20 years return is expected to save Lathrop taxpayers and those in community facilities districts that pay for street light maintenance and operation more than $10.6 million.

To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com