Success May be Attainable

When our Freedom from Fireworks in Bellingham group and the blog was initiated back in 2010, we certainly hoped we could bring the idea of a ban of fireworks in our City this close to what might be legislative success.  Yet that's exactly where we are right now:

1. A public hearing at Council is scheduled for 6/3/13.  Council can complete a 1st and 2nd reading of the ban under their consideration that evening and vote to move forward.  With a majority affirmative vote, the ban can then be scheduled for final consideration at Council on 6/17/13.
2. On 6/17/13, the Council can complete a 3rd reading of the proposed ban and take a final vote.  With a majority affirmative vote, the ban is adopted by Council.
3. The resulting ordinance, after endorsement by Council President Seth Fleetwood, approval by Mayor Kelli Linville, the Finance Director, the City Attorney and publishing, becomes the "law of the City" no later than 6/27/13.
4. After the State-mandated 1-year "waiting period", this revised fireworks ordinance - BMC 10.24.130 - is enforceable before the 4th of July next year.

During our efforts to promote the idea of a ban, over 3700 folks have supported us via two petition campaigns.  We hope that many of these people will attend the 6/3 and 6/17 Council meetings to show, by their presence, their support of the proposed ban.  THANKS!  Later . . .