Pasco council split on whether to back West Richland aerial-fireworks ban; vote deferred until mayor present
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Summary
City Manager Stewart presented a request from West Richland for a letter of municipal support to ban aerial fireworks. Council members were divided over enforcement challenges and regional implications; staff will bring the item back with Mayor Milne present and clarified the mayor's signature in a draft packet was not final.
City Manager Stewart asked the council whether the City of Pasco should prepare a letter of support for West Richland—s consideration of a ban on aerial fireworks.
Stewart said the mayor of West Richland requested regional support to ease political decision-making, and noted Kennewick had already approved a similar letter. Council members discussed the practical enforcement difficulty of an aerial-fireworks ban: they cited limited law-enforcement capacity on busy holiday nights, cross-jurisdictional availability of aerial fireworks (purchased outside city limits or on tribal lands), and concerns about veterans and people with PTSD and the effect on animals.
Council member Parales said he supported exploring the letter but emphasized enforcement issues. Council member Carter asked whether staff had quantifiable damage data; Stewart said staff would follow up to gather that evidence. Council was split, and several members suggested deferring any action until Mayor Milne, who was excused, could participate. Staff also clarified that an electronic mayoral signature present on a draft in the packet was a template and would not be finalized without council approval.
Public commenters who spoke in favor said regional coordination could help reduce property damage and trauma to veterans and animals. No formal action was taken and staff will return with additional information and the item for a future vote when the mayor is present.
