Council advances ordinance for permanent fireworks ban in Redmond

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Redmond City Council voted five-one today to advance a proposed ordinance that would establish a permanent ban on all fireworks.

If enacted, the ordinance would change a long-standing tradition in the city. Under previous regulations, fireworks were banned every day except the Fourth of July.

The push for a complete ban follows several fireworks-caused fires this year. The Police Department, fire department and City Council members have been exploring options to prevent future fires.

The Redmond City Council has been looking at ways to curb illegal fireworks usage to prevent potential fires for the last three years.

City Councilor Clifford Evelyn advocated for safety measures and suggested residents attend public displays rather than setting off fireworks in residential neighborhoods. “Safety above everything. Okay. Celebrations. We can go down to the fairgrounds and do it down there and watch the fireworks. And take your family home once its done. You don't have to do it in your neighborhood, okay? It's very important to keep kids safe, keep adults safe, keep our property safe,” Evelyn said.

Members of the public addressed the council for close to 45 minutes during the meeting. Opponents of the measure argued that a complete ban unfairly penalizes law-abiding citizens.

“I don't believe the answer is to take a traditional way from everyone, because some people choose not to follow the rules,” one Redmond resident said.

Another Redmond resident stressed the cultural importance of the holiday. “Everyone who celebrates the 4th of July is celebrating their independence. It's an American holiday. It's a patriotic holiday. It's ingrained in our culture. And for those who want to take that away, I just want to say that is wrong,” the resident said.

Other community members supported the ban, citing increasing hazards in the area. Redmond resident John Fullman spoke in favor of the measure. “It's dangerous. And the danger in our area is just it's just too much now. So we can't ignore anymore,” Fullman said.

The ordinance passed its first reading today. The council will hold a second reading at a later date in Redmond.