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Oxnard resident urges action on nightly fireworks in Oxnard Shores
Summary
A resident told the Public Works and Transportation Committee that nightly fireworks from Memorial Day through Labor Day are causing distress to pets and people in Oxnard Shores and called on city officials to take steps similar to neighboring communities. Committee members noted a police-led PSA effort and provided a contact for participation.
Susan Hartzler, a resident of Oxnard Shores who volunteers with local high schools, told the Oxnard Public Works and Transportation Committee on May 27 that nightly fireworks from Memorial Day through Labor Day are disrupting residents and endangering animals and people.
"The problem is nightly fireworks from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Nightly. Nightly," Hartzler said, adding that her therapy dog, Paige Turner, and other animals become "deathly afraid" and that neighbors have suffered serious consequences. Hartzler said a nearby fire—the Palisades fire—was started by fireworks and recounted a neighbor who she said died after someone set off an M-80 outside his door last year.
Hartzler said she has raised the issue with several public officials, including the Oxnard fire chief, and that residents frequently post complaints on neighborhood apps such as Nextdoor. "People are fed up with the police in this area that let this happen," she said, and said she had written to the mayor and not received a response.
The complaint came during the committee's public comment period and did not prompt any formal action by the committee. Mayor Pro Tem (unnamed in the record) said the Police Department's communications manager is seeking individuals to appear in a public-service announcement about the effects of fireworks and suggested the committee share a contact. The committee identified Police Department staff member Paul Hargania as a contact for the PSA effort.
Hartzler offered to participate, saying, "I'm happy to be the pet person," and said she would leave her contact information with staff. Committee Chair McArthur thanked her for bringing the concern to the committee.
No city action, referral, or vote was recorded during the meeting on the fireworks issue; the comments were part of the public-comment period.
The remarks highlighted concerns about public safety, animal welfare and enforcement, and drew a staff-led outreach response rather than an immediate policy change. Residents seeking to participate in the Police Department's planned PSA were advised to contact Paul Hargania at the department.
