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"-. PUBLIC HEARINGS (continued) Item No.2 (continued) J. D. Clark, 1 Hillpoint Court, San Francisco, former Redwood City resident and member of the Park and Recreation Commission, suggested that charitable organizations attempt to make money in ways other than selling fireworks, stating it is unreasonable to condone use of mild explosives. Mr. Clark reported that the City of Belmont's ban has worked well and that a similar ban in Redwood City would be effective also. E. Micheal Rich, Redwood City Rod and Gun Club, 246 San Carlos Avenue, San Carlos, suggested it is unfair to punish all people who wish to use fireworks because some make illegal use of them. Mr. Rich said the problem is lack of sense in using them and inadequate law enforcement. Mr. Rich urged that proper use of fireworks is preferable to a ban and that persons under 16 years of age should not be without supervision. Carlos Tinsley, 960 Monte Rosa, Menlo Park, and 1900 Broadway, Redwood City Downtown Lions Club, Chairman of the Fireworks Sale Committee, reported that his organization closely follows the regulations published by the Fire Department. Mr. Tinsley suggested any ban should be delayed pending the outcome of a case in Santa Clare County and said that "illegals" should be outlawed, but urged that "safe and sane" be permitted, pointing out that the money earned from their sale is spent for the community. Bob Schonfisch, 1055 Silver Hill Road, suggested that "safe and sane" fireworks are just as dangerous as any others and should be banned. Mr. Schonfisch reported his failure to obtain assistance from the Police and Fire Departments on the Fourth of July when he attemped to report incidents because of the large number of such calls. Cyril Goss, 109 Central Avenue, said he no longer believes there are "safe and sane" fireworks and reported his experience with a sparkler resulting in a flaming palm tree. Patricia Schonfisch, 1055 Silver Hill Road, reported her experiences in asking neighbors not to permit their children to use "illegals" and urged that all fireworks be banned and the ban enforced. Jack Keller, former Fire Chief, 2017 Vera, supported the recommendation of Director of Fire Services O'Brien, stating he cannot condone giving children matches. Chief Keller said that prevention is the key to fire safety rather than suppression and suggested that fire and noise are not necessary to celebrate Independence Day and that other ways of raising money are available. Chief Keller urged adoption of the proposed ordinance. Tom Bezant, 875 Beech Street, #7, supported the Fire Department recommendation, stating he had been an American Legion baseball player and believes it is a good program, but that risking injury is not sane. Mr. Bezant suggested a ban on all fireworks will not increase use of "illegals" . Vincent Maroon (see above) stated that sale of fireworks is the easiest way to earn needed funds for his Scout Troop, compared a ban on fire- works to a ban on cars which some use illegally, and suggested it is unfair to ban firewo~ks because some persons misuse them. Mayor Stangel invited anyone else present who wished to speak to do so. No one wished to speak. MIS: BurylBritschgi to close the public hearing. Carried unanimously and public hearing closed at 8:55 p.m. (Council recessed from 8:55 to 9:05 p.m.) Reg.Mtg. 8/23/82 Page 3 /' ~3C\ .- -.~-~o--- ,"--~"H..~.._-~""~~_.."-". -~-~..--~'~,,_~~ -.._-_..~-~.._~--_._-'" .. I