Consideration needed before fireworks ban | Letter to the editor

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I am writing to convey my disappointment at the Leader’s story regarding the proposed Jefferson County fireworks ban. We heard from our county commissioners, county prosecutor, and fire officials. However, the Leader’s coverage gave no consideration to the many Jefferson County citizens who love to celebrate July 4 with fireworks.

I appreciate fire officials’ concerns, but the Leader should have probed more deeply and considered the unintended consequences of a ban. How many fireworks-related fires occur? If a ban were in place, would some folks take their fireworks farther afield where the sheriff’s department doesn’t patrol, the fire districts have a limited capacity to respond, and the risk of catastrophic fires is greater?

The Leader’s story discussed enforcement of a fireworks ban, misdemeanor citations and $1,000 fines. It didn’t include the views of Sheriff Joe Nole whose deputies will have the troublesome task of enforcing it and issuing citations.

I was sorry to read about the problems at the Gardiner boat ramp cited by Commissioner Brotherton. I have a different perspective. For decades I’ve lived up the street from Irondale Beach Park where folks flock on the Fourth for a good time with their kids and friends to shoot off fireworks. The vibe is friendly.

Friends of Chimacum Creek, a neighborhood group, conducts monthly cleanups at the park, including on July 5. Considering the number of folks celebrating and considering it’s long past dark when the party ends, there’s very little trash. Which situation, Irondale or Gardiner, better represents the citizens of Jefferson County?

I hope before the county commissioners hold their Feb. 28 public hearing on the proposed fireworks ban, The Leader will give this issue more thorough and thoughtful consideration. I hope the county commissioners will, too.

Jim Pearson
IRONDALE