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Ephraim enacts temporary fireworks ban amid extreme drought
Summary
The Ephraim City Council on July 1 adopted Resolution ECR 26-16 banning ignition sources and fireworks within city limits because no safe discharge location could be identified amid extreme drought; the measure passed 3-0.
The Ephraim City Council voted unanimously 3-0 on July 1 to adopt Resolution ECR 26-16, prohibiting the use of ignition sources and fireworks in the city due to extreme drought conditions. Councilmember Jack Dalene moved to adopt the resolution; Councilmember Bud Powell seconded the motion, and Councilmembers Dalene, Loren Steck and Powell voted in favor. Councilmembers Anthony Beal and Dennis Nordfelt were absent.
Fire department leadership told the Council that, given current conditions, officials could not identify any location within the city where fireworks could be discharged safely. "We cannot identify a safe location within the city for fireworks discharge," Chief Hermansen recommended, urging the Council to follow the guidance of state and county fire officials. Council members cited the recent Mill Hill Fire and the suppression costs and ongoing wildfire risk as reasons for moving ahead with the restriction.
The resolution aligns local restrictions with state and county guidance; the minutes record the Council's intent to follow higher‑level fire officials during the drought. The action took effect with the Council vote and will remain in place while drought conditions persist, subject to future action by the Council or higher authorities.
The Council took the vote as part of its regular meeting agenda; the session also addressed development and other city business and adjourned at 8:13 p.m.
