A proposal to restrict the use of fireworks within city limits is in front of the Ketchikan City Council on Thursday.
The idea first came up on July 5th when Mayor Lew Williams III asked whether the city could limit the use of large mortar-style fireworks. According to a memo from Assistant City Manager Lacey Simpson, city regulations currently allow the use of mortar fireworks if the mortars are an integral part of a legally purchased firework.
In a memo, Police Chief Joe White says that distinction makes it challenging to enforce. It’s difficult to tell after the fact whether a mortar was part of a firework. If the council wants to restrict fireworks, he recommends an ordinance that clearly defines what is legal, or one that bans all fireworks in city limits.
Also Thursday, the council will consider a health-care transparency ordinance in second reading. City management has recommended that the council reject the ordinance, because a new state law has been approved to cover that concern. The state law does not allow municipalities to enact laws that supersede its authority.
In other matters, the council will hear a presentation Thursday from Emergency Services Consulting International regarding replacement of the city’s emergency response apparatus.
Thursday’s meeting starts at 7 p.m. in Ketchikan City Council chambers. Public comment will be heard at the start of the meeting.
