06/29/1992 Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

e weather conditions deemed it appropriate would set up an inconsistency within the ordinance. He provided an explanation of how the fire marshal has de- scribed the minimal impact a couple days of rain has on the fire danger. Mayor Miller felt a citywide ban on the use of fireworks would be more fair and suggested separating action on banning the sale and use of fireworks. Mr. Boles pointed out that the ordinance does impose a citywide ban on the use of fireworks, with the exception of July 4. Responding to a question from Mr. Green, Fire Marshal Dave Nuss, Department of Public Safety (DPS), said the City issues licenses to sell fireworks on behalf of the State Fire Marshal's Office, and that he was not positive but understood that they are issued for a particular site stipulated on the li- cense application. Ms. Bascom commented that the ordinance would still allow citizens to cele- brate the 4th of July holiday. Mr. Nicholson said he supported banning the use of fireworks except on July 4 on the grounds that the council will address this issue in a more comprehen- sive fashion. Other councilors expressed support for a long-term strategy. Roll call vote; the motion to amend passed 7:1, with Councilor Bascom voting nay. Ms. Ehrman moved, seconded by Mr. MacDonald, to delete the e following language from the bill: "No person shall sell fire- works to any person at any location within the south hills area of the city as defined in Section 4 of this ordinance. In addition . . . " Mr. Nicholson said he opposed the amendment, saying that it made little sense to ban the use of fireworks in an area where the sale of fireworks, especial- ly to juveniles, is permitted. Mr. Rutan pointed out that a ban on the sale of fireworks in the south hills area would affect a stand in the Bi-Mart parking lot at the intersection of Chambers Street and West 18th Avenue, but not one across the street in the Albertsons parking lot. Roll call; the motion to amend passed 6:2, with councilors MacDonald and Nicholson voting nay. Mayor Miller noted that the use of fireworks would be banned this year, ex- cept on July 4, but including New Year's Eve. Mr. Nicholson reiterated that the council should adopt a substitute ordinance that would allow the fire marshal to ban the use of fireworks when appropriate. Mr. MacDonald encour- aged the council's work on this issue. Mr. Green commended Councilor MacDonald's efforts on this ordinance. Ms. Bascom suggested including input from the community in looking at a long-term solution. Roll call vote; the main motion was amended approved unani- mously, 8:0. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council June 29, 1992 Page 3 5:45 p.m.