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Resident urges stricter enforcement of existing fireworks ordinances
Summary
Resident Joel Gryer told council the city’s illegal-fireworks problem causes injuries, sleep loss and stress for veterans and residents and asked the council to enforce Division 3 (sections 24128–24133) and pursue public education.
During the audience-comment portion of the June 2 meeting, resident Joel Gryer (2272 Noair) described repeated disruptions from illegal fireworks across seasons and neighborhoods and urged the council to enforce existing Washington code rather than create new legislation.
Gryer told the council that illegal fireworks incidents occur at all hours, cause injuries to children, distress to seniors and veterans with PTSD, and deprive neighbors of peace. He referenced the city’s existing fireworks code (Division 3, sections 24128–24133) and said enforcement of those provisions, coupled with public education, should be the first steps. He said previous complaints to the prior administration were dismissed as too vindictive and that enforcement is within the sworn duties of police officers.
Gryer asked the council to consider an enforcement plan and community education campaign. No formal council action was taken at the meeting in response to the comment; staff and council moved on to scheduled business items.
