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Item No. 7 (continued) Leo W. Crawford, 356 Topaz Street, Pyrotechnic Corporation, owner of Red Devil and Wildcat Fireworks, referred to his company's material distri- buted to Council members in opposition to a ban on fireworks and quoted from publications and letters contained therein. Mr. Crawfod suggested that the same reasons for a ban on safe and sane fireworks might also apply to the use of many household products which can also create hazards, if improperly used. He said that fire and police salaries are paid whether or not the personnel are being called out to investigate fires. Mr. Crawford suggested that if safe and sane fireworks are banned, then use of illegals will increase, thereby greatly increasing the amount of damage likely to occur, and said he is not aware of any successful ban against fireworks. John Wolsdorf, Organization for Safe and Sane Fireworks and teacher, said that the sale of fireworks is the easiest method of earning funds for worthy projects and that the use of fireworks is part of the heritage of Americans. He pointed out that fireworks is a heavily regulated industry and the manufacturers are cooperative with the regulations to protect the community. Mr. Wolsdorf urged that the ban against illegals be strictly enforced. Fire Chief O'Brien referred to statistics relating to fire activities in 1983 and the cost of department activities related to fireworks during the 4th of July period. He replied to questions and commented concerning whether enforcement might be easier if all fireworks were banned; the fact that the Uniform Fire Code does not allow fireworks; the safe and sane fireworks approved by the State Fire Marshall; whether the City's fire rating is affected by a ban; the misuse of fireworks, especially by children; and the cost to taxpayers of fireworks activity. Jim Nevill, 421 Terrace Way, San Mateo, said it is users of illegal fireworks in any case. Mr. Nevill fireworks is the easiest way for Sea Scouts to earn use of illegals will increase, if safe and sane are market. Mr. Nevill suggested more concern might be materials being transported through city streets. impossible to catch said that the sale of money, and that the removed from the directed at hazardous Discussion continued and Council members stated their reasons for favoring or opposing a ban on fireworks. M /S: Biagi /Rhodes not to ban the sale of safe and sane fireworks in Redwood City. The motion carried on the following roll call vote: Ayes: Councilmen Biagi, Britschgi, Bury, Mosher, Rhodes and Mayor Stangel Noes: Claire MINUTE ORDER NO. 83 -129 Reg.Mtg. 9/12/83 Page 5 MINUTE BOOK NO. 44 Page No. 220