A proposal to limit the number of days to ignite Fourth of July fireworks in unincorporated Pierce County to just the holiday itself sparked mixed reviews Monday.
Some people came before a County Council committee to oppose the idea, which would reduce the number of days from eight to one. Others said they wanted a total ban. And some worried tougher restrictions wouldn’t be enforced.
In the end, the committee gave the proposal just enough support to keep it alive for another month.
Joe Lewis, who lives between Lakewood and Steilacoom, voiced concern about the unsettling effect fireworks have on animals.
“I am here representing my dog,” Lewis said.
Pierce County Sheriff Paul Pastor said cutting the number of days to light “safe and sane” fireworks is an idea with merit.
“It allows people to celebrate the birth of this country, at the same time puts some boundaries on that celebration,” Pastor said.
Pastor said July 3, 4 and 5 are his department’s three busiest days of the year. He cautioned against raising public expectations for enforcement beyond the department’s resources.
Council member Stan Flemming said the reduction would be too severe. And council member Dan Roach said he has doubts about the proposal’s enforceability because more serious crimes would take precedence.
But they and two other committee members voted to keep chairman Dick Muri’s proposal alive by continuing it to the Nov. 14 meeting of the public safety and human services committee.
Muri said he wants to revise the measure to lessen the penalty for illegal discharge of fireworks to a civil infraction of up to $1,000, avoiding clogging up the courts with misdemeanors.
Pierce County Prosecutor Mark Lindquist recommended the civil penalty as a way to send a message while using fewer resources. Illegal discharge of fireworks is currently a gross misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a $5,000 fine.
Karen Gower, of TNT Fireworks, said the real problem is fireworks sold on Indian reservations, which are illegal to set off away from tribal lands.
“Those things don’t go away by anything that you pass,” said Gower, who spoke against the proposal.
John Dearinger said he’s lived in Pierce County for 34 years and sees no problem with Fourth of July traditions.
“I grew up with fireworks,” Dearinger said. “I don’t see why we have to change the law now.”
Gig Harbor area resident Helen Nupp said she would prefer a total ban but supports restricting fireworks to Independence Day as an alternative.
She said fireworks disturb pets, wildlife and children.
“This is a serious issue,” Nupp said. “Something needs to be done.”
Steve Maynard: 253-597-8647 steve.maynard@thenewstribune.com
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