City discusses sale, discharge of fireworks
The sale and discharge of fireworks within Marion city limits is being considered by Marion City Commission.
During Monday's meeting, the commission reviewed the request made by Darvin Markley but tabled any action until the next meeting when Markley could attend. Markley was unable to attend the commission meeting due to an emergency call.
David Mayfield, city administrator, presented Markley's request.
Mayfield said police chief Michel Soyez, also absent from the meeting, did not have a problem with the request, if it was the wishes of the commission.
Thad Meierhoff, fire chief, also said he did not have a problem with fireworks being discharged, as long as aerial fireworks are not allowed.
Dan Baldwin, city attorney, said Hillsboro's ordinance, adopted last year, can be used as an example. He said he will review and make suggestions.
The commission will have the option of restricting what is allowed for sale and discharge, and the selling of the fireworks can be suspended due to dry weather.
The state fire marshal's office also offers suggestions for regulations, Baldwin said. Sales will be regulated with specific days and times.
The commission will determine areas for retail sales. Regulations will include restriction of sales as a sidewalk vendor or from existing businesses.
Commissioner Larry McLain asked if fireworks sales could be in the city's industrial park. Commissioner Jim Crofoot asked about the area across from the stadium, near the cemetery. The commission expressed concerns about the sales being located across U.S.-56.
The commission will discuss the issue at next week's meeting and would like public comment.
