I want to meet with youth group directors right away. By reducing dependence on fireworks' sales and the number of stands, it would follow our city would be safer. We might borrow an idea that works in Irvine to raise money for kids. A recent town home raffle was expected to net $700,000 to $800,000.
It's also time for us to bring back a citywide fireworks celebration. We used to have a celebration at OCC and it was a wonderful time for Costa Mesans to get together to celebrate our country's freedom.
This year, my first year on the City Council, I received a lot of calls and e-mails from residents very concerned about safety in their neighborhoods for themselves, their family pets and their property. They're pretty mad. They want to see legal fireworks banned entirely.
I spent two hours from 8 to 10 p.m. on July 4 riding with Battalion Chief Kirk Dominic. Fireworks were exploding everywhere, legal and illegal ones, including explosive devices such as M-80s.
We stopped at several parks, where fireworks are not allowed, and a parking lot. Only one of the persons we talked to said he lived in Costa Mesa. It was clear to us after several stops that hundreds come into our town to light fireworks.
Chief Dominic navigated the red Suburban down several smoky, dark streets. For the most part, people in the various neighborhoods seem to be responsible.
These little celebrations are special times to get together with neighbors and families. Also, it's like a coming of age, a Peter Pan moment for a dad and his kids, too. The dad becomes a kid for a few hours. We shouldn't punish them and take away their fun because of the people who use illegal fireworks or use them in the wrong places.
Firefighters and police officers have indicated to me that they were glad nothing major happened this year.
