Creston will not adopt a new firework ordinance before July 4.
After 20-plus minutes of discussion, the seven city council members decided to not take action to amend the ordinance pertaining to fireworks.
With the decision, no one will be allowed to shoot off fireworks within the city limits, continuing the same laws in place in Creston for the last eight years.
Illegal shooting of fireworks carries a simple misdemeanor charge and a fine of up to $625.
It is against state law to use, or set off, fireworks on any public property including lakes and state parks.
The discussion and ideas were based around the state of Iowa’s newly passed bill, signed into law by former Gov. Terry Branstad, allowing the regulation and sale of fireworks to anyone over the age of 18.
This means the sale of fireworks will still be legal in Creston.
Brandon Vonk, Vice President of the Creston Shooters, set the appointment with city council and voiced his opinion that Creston needs to be clear about what the ordinance is.
“The confusion part of it is, you’re going to have people who don’t understand the state of Iowa passed a law, that Creston can opt out of,” said Vonk.
Vonk’s main concern was public safety and making sure everyone understands the city’s law.
Creston Police Chief Paul Ver Meer felt the same way.
“There is nothing stopping people from using fireworks – just not in the city limits,” said Ver Meer.
Vonk suggested a few different options for a future ordinance, such as timed shoots that could be better regulated by city officials.
“Do Fridays and Saturdays from June 13 to June 30 and July 1-4. That way the fire department and police department are ready for shooting on Fridays and Saturdays,” said Vonk.
“Reason that is, because if you do an open shoot, Monday through Thursday, you’ve got people going to work at 5 a.m.,” added Vonk.
“I don’t think we need an open shoot down here because I think it could cause a huge headache between the police station and the fire department,” said Vonk.
The council had begun a draft of new ordinance, but ultimately decided not to rush through new authorization. The council’s main concern was passing new ordinance that would have flaws resulting in spending money later to change it.
“Even if we don’t do anything this year, at least we have footing for next year,” said Vonk.
By waiting to propose a new ordinance, Creston is able to wait and see how surrounding communities enforce their new policies. This gives the city the opportunity to examine new ordinances elsewhere, before implementing a new one of its own.