Fireworks could be in Thermopolis future

The Thermopolis Town Council passed an ordinance on first reading that would allow for the sale of fireworks in town during designated times.

According to the ordinance currently being reviewed, sale of fireworks would be allowed by a licensed retailer for no more than 14 consecutive days around the time of the 4th of July holiday and for no more than seven consecutive days during the New Years holiday.

The use of fireworks would also be allowed in areas, on days, and during hours which the town council allows for.

For example, the town council could allow the use of fireworks from July 4 to July 5 on Broadway Street from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The town council could also decide that fireworks would not be permitted on a certain year if there is a higher risk of a hazard.

The ordinance needs to be approved two more times before it is adopted into law.

Council member Mark Nelson pointed out that if community members have a problem with the change, they should come to town council meetings to voice their concerns so that the whole council can hear and understand how the community feels about the change.

"Don't (just) ask your council members to speak for you," he said.

Mayor Mike Mortimore said he prefers having a vendor in Thermopolis selling to the people of Thermopolis, rather than people buying their fireworks outside of town.

Under this ordinance, the detonation of fireworks would not be allowed within one-half mile of Thermopolis. The previous ordinance did not allow use within five miles of the town limits.

Furthermore, the town approved the addition of Thermopolis as a member of Tree City USA.

According to Ron Raile of Central Wyoming Tree Service, in order to be a part of Tree City USA, members must meet three criteria. They must maintain a tree board or department, have a community tree ordinance and celebrate Arbor Day.

However, the town council has given approval to create a tree board in the past, but nothing has ever happened.

"They've come to us three other times, I just hope it happens this time," council member Tony Larson said.

Raile said in the past the board has lacked an arborist, but he is one and will act in that role to get the program up and running.

Town engineer Heath Overfield said that construction on Second Street of a sewer line will likely cross Broadway Street next week. Minimal delays are expected as one lane of traffic should stay open at all times.

The town council also approved Hot Springs County Weed and Pest Control District to include the town in their mosquito spraying program for 2015.

Additionally, the council approved a liquor license for the One Eyed Buffalo Brewing Company.

The town council also approved road closures for a parade route for the Rendezvous Rodeo this summer. The parade route will run from Pizza Hut down Sixth Street to Broadway, and from there to the VFW.