Report Prepared by: Christopher Goodwin, Chief of Police and Michael Wilkinson, Fire Chief
Title
SUBJECT: Update on Celebrate Safe Illegal Fireworks Enforcement and Public Outreach Campaign
REPORT IN BRIEF
Provides an update on the 2018 Fourth of July Celebrate Safe Campaign and efforts to address illegal fireworks within the City.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the City Council accept the report and provide staff with recommendations and direction for addressing issues related to the use of illegal fireworks for next year's Fourth of July holiday.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Refer to staff for reconsideration of specific items as requested by Council; or,
2. Continue to a future City Council meeting (date and time to be specified in the motion).
AUTHORITY
City Charter Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
The inaugural Celebrate Safe Campaign was developed by Staff at the direction of the City Council and City Manager to enhance public safety on and around the Fourth of July holiday.
DISCUSSION
The use of illegal fireworks on and around the Fourth of July holiday is an issue that effects most cities and communities across the state. The attendant explosions caused by the use of illegal fireworks disturbs the peace and can cause stress for residents, veterans and pets. In addition, the explosives used are powerful and create a risk of serious bodily injury and property damage.
Following the Fourth of July holiday in 2017, at the direction of the City Council, the City Manager asked four City departments to develop a taskforce and campaign to address the issues associated with illegal fireworks. This led to the creation of the Illegal Fireworks Taskforce, which was made up of representatives from the City's Police, Fire and Information Technology Departments as well as the City Attorney's Office.
The Taskforce's goal was to promote public safety by reducing the number of illegal fireworks being used within the City. To accomplish this goal, the...
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