Compton council keeps fireworks suspension, directs staff to prepare November ballot measure

The Compton City Council on June 9 maintained a temporary suspension on fireworks sales and use and voted to direct staff to prepare a report to place a permanent fireworks question on the November 2026 ballot.

Assistant City Manager Tamara Bins told the council the item before them was whether to reaffirm a suspension on fireworks sales and use or to consider alternatives. Council members and residents said illegal fireworks are already widespread and expressed concern about public safety, property damage and health risks.

"I don't want the fireworks here because it is a health issue and it's dangerous," Council Member Dedra Doohart said during the discussion. Members asked staff to post visible notice banners and for code enforcement and sheriff's deputies to step up enforcement. Staff said the public information office and code enforcement were prepared to deploy banners and notices immediately if the council so directed.

Council members debated whether to hold a large public event instead of allowing private fireworks; planning constraints and budget limits were cited. Bins noted that items to be placed on the November ballot must be submitted to the county registrar by Aug. 14, 2026, if council chose that route.

By roll call the council approved a motion to postpone final action and directed staff to prepare a ballot placement report; the suspension will remain in effect pending the next steps. Council members said they expect staff to return with draft ballot language and an implementation plan, including public notices and a description of enforcement options. The city also said it would report back on any citations or enforcement actions taken by the sheriff's department during the fireworks season.

Next steps: staff will prepare and return with a ballot placement report and proposed outreach and enforcement plan before the registrar-recorder deadline.