Contrary to Bruce Arbuckle’s claim in the July 17 Columbian (“Compromise shown by city council”), many of us who oppose Vancouver’s current policy on the abusive use of personal fireworks have indeed offered a compromise to the council. We realize that use of personal fireworks in Vancouver will likely never be completely banned, as nice as that would be.
I’ve emailed each member of the council to ask that personal fireworks be limited to one day, July 4, noon to midnight, and that sales also be limited to one day, July 3, noon to midnight. Judging from the replies I’ve received, most council members agree with my proposal.
The last time I looked, neither July 1, 2 or 3 are holidays, so why are they treated as such in regard to fireworks?
Setting off personal fireworks is not a right. It’s a privilege. Since many ignore this, the council should weigh in with a real compromise. One day is more than enough. I’m tired of my neighborhood being a war zone for three weeks. I’m a veteran, and fireworks abuse has nothing to do with patriotism.
