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East Dundee board tells organizers to move fireworks off the river
Summary
After discussing pollution and community concerns, the East Dundee village board agreed on June 1 not to host future fireworks over the river and asked organizers to identify alternative launch sites or fund alternative displays.
The East Dundee village board agreed June 1 that future fireworks displays should not be launched from the bridge over the river, citing concerns about debris entering the water, impacts on wildlife and pets, and effects on residents including veterans with PTSD. Board members urged organizers who fund or run the displays to find alternate sites within or near the village.
Discussion noted the historical arrangement in which a private group has paid for some holiday shows launched from the bridge. Board members said the village can regulate where displays occur but will not absorb the cost of a more expensive alternative such as a drone show; one trustee observed that drone shows are "way more expensive" than traditional fireworks and that any paid drone show would need an external sponsor.
The board reached consensus to stop permitting discharge over the river and to work with organizers to identify a suitable, nonriver location for future displays, leaving funding and site selection to organizers. The change is intended to reduce environmental impacts to the river and lessen disturbance to animals and residents.
Next steps: village staff will work with organizers and the fire department on potential alternate locations and permitting requirements for future events.
