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Great Falls commissioners direct staff to prepare ballot language to restrict aerial and explosive fireworks after public debate
Summary
After nearly two hours of public comment on July 22, 2025, the Great Falls City Commission directed staff to prepare wording to refer a more restrictive fireworks measure (Option 3) to the November ballot, while fire and police chiefs warned enforcement will be difficult and investigators identified fireworks as the probable cause of a recent fatal house fire.
Great Falls commissioners moved on July 22 to direct city staff to prepare ballot referral language for a more restrictive fireworks ordinance that would prohibit aerial and explosive consumer fireworks, while allowing certain ground-based "safe and sane" items.
The move came after extended public comment from vendors, residents, veterans and public-safety officials, and after the fire chief described a July 2 house fire that investigators say had "probable cause" tied to fireworks. Fire Chief Jones said investigators found burn patterns consistent with fireworks and told commissioners, "She was not outside and did not go back in for a cat," directly disputing a widely circulated rumor.
The ballot-track decision reflects a split among commissioners over whether the body should legislate or defer to voters. Greg, a city staff member speaking for administration, summarized the choices…
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