07/22/2008: "Appeal Filed on Fireworks Ban"

(Don Burkhart of Blakely Island files appeal)

The recently passed ordinance banning all “safe & sane” personal fireworks in San Juan County has been challenge. Don Burkhart has filed a formal appeal with the County Auditor under section 5.40 of the home rule charter.

Mr. Burkhart and his Advocacy group’s "Fireworks Unrestricted" appeal now goes to the Auditor and Prosecuting Attorney for formal review and wording, followed by a 120 day signature-gathering period. (See related story "4th Of July Traditions")

If successful in gathering the necessary signatures, the voters will be afforded an opportunity to vote down the ordinance banning fireworks.

"It took six County Commissioners a mere 45 days to snuff out two centuries of American tradition", says spokesperson Don Burkhart, "Who's in charge here anyway, our paid professionals or the people who pay their salaries? Three of the six are up for election this year, so I guess "We the People" know where to start."

Mr. Burkhart went on to comment, "There are 56 inhabited islands in San Juan County, and only 3 of them put on the type of permitted professional displays that the ordinance requires. Our traditional 4th of July has been forcibly taken from us, making us criminals on our own property. It's time for the voters of San Juan County to take a cue from our forefathers, and have ourselves a little tea party."

15% of the number of votes cast in the last gubernatorial election (2004) are required to place the ordinance on the ballot. 9,859 votes were cast in that election If 1,479 validated signatures are collected within the 120 days, the ordinance will be suspended until the November 2009 general election where voters will decide. This would mean that 4th of July 2009 would not be subject to the ordinance as it now stands.

Fireworks Unrestricted LLC is a state-registered political action organization whose solitary aim is the repeal of the San Juan County fireworks ban. Its donors and supporters are merely residents who enjoy their own fireworks, and wish to keep doing so.