Committee forwards ordinance to allow low‑smoke, no‑concussion fireworks at Benton High School games

The committee voted to send an ordinance to the full council that would permit low‑smoke, no‑concussion pyrotechnic effects to be discharged from the indoor facility at Benton High School during varsity football games and selected events.

The mayor and event representatives said they worked with the fire marshal to identify approved products and safe discharge locations. “Craig has looked at their proposal…he’s approved where their location is shooting from, and they’re happy with the situation,” the mayor said while introducing the Touchdown Club representatives.

A presenter from the group described fundraising to fully cover the cost of the effects and said event organizers have firmed a vendor. “We’ve seen this done at many other locations…we’ve got it all fully fundraised,” the representative said, noting sponsorship support from community businesses.

The committee discussed safety features: the ordinance is written to permit low‑smoke shows that do not include loud concussions and allows discharge from approved locations within the indoor facility; Hogwild Pyro was named as the planned operator and was described as the vendor that services local arenas.

A parent (identified as a former player’s father in the meeting) voiced support for the added excitement if it remains safe and noted the fire marshal’s approval. The ordinance was moved, seconded and approved to go before the full council for consideration; the committee record shows a voice vote and the motion carried.

No technical changes to the noise ordinance were adopted at the committee; the ordinance is being forwarded for full council action.