Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Fireworks Ordinance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Manila proposes ban on aerial fireworks, designates park for general displays
Summary
Mayor Kathi Knight reviewed a proposed fireworks ordinance that would ban aerial fireworks anywhere in town, allow small ground‑based devices, and designate the park for permitted fireworks use pending County permission; the ordinance was reviewed by town and county attorneys and will go to public hearing.
Mayor Kathi Knight reviewed a proposed fireworks ordinance the town attorney and county attorney have reviewed and described the town's approach to reduce fire risk and concentrate fireworks activity at a supervised location.
The proposal would ban aerial fireworks anywhere in town, including the rodeo grounds, while allowing small ground‑based items such as sparklers and "snakes." "No aerial fireworks anywhere in town, including the rodeo grounds," Knight said. She added that state law requires the town to designate a location where fireworks may be used; the park has been designated for general fireworks use but aerials would remain prohibited there because of nearby wooden structures and fire risk.
Knight said the town's fire resources will be committed to Dutch John's professional display and recommended residents attend that exhibition rather than conducting aerial fireworks locally. She said the ordinance will go to a public hearing on May 28, and, if adopted, will be published and posted per legal requirements with brochures and signage to inform residents and short‑term rental hosts.
Why it matters: the ban aims to reduce local wildfire risk and concentrate higher‑risk fireworks use to a controlled, supervised location; the town must secure county permission for park use and complete statutory publication steps before enforcement can begin.
