Councilors ask staff to review fireworks and reckless-discharge ordinances after complaints, police report Pheasant Lane enforcement actions

Several West Richland councilmembers on Sept. 16 asked staff to examine local ordinances to address fireworks-related litter, reckless discharge and obstructing emergency responders, while police reported recent enforcement at a recurring problem location on Pheasant Lane.

Councilmember Ken Stoker asked staff to consider amendments to the citys litter ordinance so that property owners who cause debris to land on neighboring property could be held responsible, and to add fireworks to the citys reckless-discharge ordinance alongside other prohibited discharges (such as arrows or BBs). "People need to be responsible for the fireworks they launch," Stoker said, adding he did not favor banning fireworks but wanted clearer tools for enforcement. Councilmember John Smart also urged exploring ordinance language to authorize enforcement when celebrants block emergency vehicles.

Councilmembers did not adopt new ordinances at the meeting; they requested staff follow up. When asked for an update on a separate but related neighborhood concern, Chief Fry reported ongoing monitoring of a Pheasant Lane address: in recent weeks the department issued two citations for garbage and debris, two parking infractions, sent reports for two criminal failure-to-transfer title counts to the prosecutor, and towed three vehicles. Chief Fry said the department will continue to monitor the location.

Public comment at the meeting included a resident who suggested more permissive local sales of fireworks for New Years to benefit nonprofits; the council discussion that followed focused on potential ordinance changes and enforcement concerns rather than altering sales policy. No formal amendments or votes occurred Sept. 16; council asked staff and the police chief to return with options and updates.