Elk Grove City Council votes against ban on fireworks

Elk Grove City Council votes against ban on fireworks

At their Wednesday night meeting, the Elk Grove City Council voted against banning “legal” fireworks in Elk Grove.

A potential ban was one of three options presented to the city council as part of a plan to combat the increase in illegal fireworks in the city. The city council considered moving the traditional city-sponsored July 4th, Salute to the Red, White & Blue, banning all fireworks, or continuing with their campaign against illegal fireworks. In the days surrounding the 4th of July, the skies above the city have been lit up with illegal fireworks.

Local non-profits showed up to speak out against a ban, saying that is a huge source of fundraising for their organizations. They also said much of their money goes back to the community to support youth. After several speakers spoke out against the ban, City Councilmember Pat Hume, asked the council for a straw poll to see if there was any support for a ban. All five council members said no. There were no speakers in favor of a ban.

The council discussed moving the annual July 4th event, but that was met with lukewarm support from the council. They eventually decided to continue on with more enforcement and public awareness against illegal fireworks.

Elk Grove Police Chief Tim Albright said he would work with the Cosumnes Fire Department and code enforcement to come up with a plan of action.