Committee defers action on fireworks private-act language for review by new commission

The operations committee agreed to delay action on the county's private act governing fireworks after the mayor and commissioners described the law as confusing for the public. The mayor noted the private act makes possession, sale and use unlawful in most cases, with exceptions for patriotic displays, and cited misdemeanor penalties up to 11 months and 29 days.

"The private act says it's unlawful for any person, firm, or corporation to possess, store, use, manufacture, or sell," S5 (the mayor) said, and recommended the county "clean this up so it's clear for the public." Commissioners discussed whether to repeal the local restriction and rely on state law or to modernize the language; Commissioner Foster (S4) moved to defer consideration until the next month to allow the incoming commission to review options. The motion to defer carried unanimously.

Committee members noted there are only a few operations meetings remaining before state deadlines for resolutions and urged staff to include fireworks language among items for early review. The deferral does not change enforcement or current policy; it delays any formal resolution, repeal or ordinance work until commissioners consider revised language.