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Smithville aldermen reject neighborhood fireworks permit after debate on notification and impacts
Summary
The Board voted 5–1 on June 17 to deny Resolution 1476, which would have approved a fireworks display at 701 Lake Meadows Drive on July 19, 2025. Debate centered on notification responsibilities, pet and PTSD impacts and whether organizers or the City should notify neighbors.
The Smithville Board of Aldermen voted 5–1 on June 17 to deny Resolution 1476, a request to permit a fireworks display at 701 Lake Meadows Drive on July 19, 2025.
The item began on the consent agenda but was removed for separate consideration; Alderman Hartman moved to place the item on the regular agenda and Alderman Wilson seconded. When the Board took up the resolution, several members said they were concerned about neighborhood notification and negative impacts on residents. Alderman Kelly Kobylski said she was "not in favor" of the permit. Alderman Melissa Wilson said she was conflicted and urged a notification protocol for neighbors, citing residents with pets or other personal issues. Alderman Ron Russell noted he already receives complaints about fireworks and cited concerns for people with PTSD and pets that must be sedated; he said he would prefer limiting displays to commercial venues such as White Iron Ridge. Alderman Leeah Stone said she supports case‑by‑case approvals if proper notification is made and thanked the applicant for seeking approval rather than proceeding without permission.
City Administrator Cynthia Wagner told the Board that White Iron Ridge is a commercial facility and that one requirement is the applicant must contact the Fire Department; she said the facility is responsible for notifying neighbors and that the City internally notifies police when an event is approved. Alderman Atkins suggested the City could post notifications but said event organizers should bear responsibility for outreach.
On the roll call vote, only Alderman Stone voted aye; Aldermen Russell, Wilson, Kobylski, Hartman and Atkins voted no and Mayor Boley declared the resolution failed. Afterward the Mayor asked staff to review the city’s fireworks policy and to place proposed policy changes and the public comment policy on a future work session agenda.
The Board did not adopt any new policy at the meeting; staff was directed to return with possible changes for review.
