Waterford Board of Selectmen

Nov. 27, 2017

Waterford Town Office

Waterford fireworks

What happened: Five members of the Fireworks Committee met with selectmen to discuss the proposed implementation of a fireworks ordinance/permitting process. The panel sought insight from selectmen whether its previous proposal was ready to go to a public hearing.

What it means: Chairman Randy Lessard suggested eliminating a small fee for the permits because it seemed like another tax. There was discussion about the effects  of the unburned chemicals and shards of wire on the town’s lakes. One resident recalled an incident during a severe drought when out-of-state renters arrived late and shot off fireworks into a very dry patch of timber near McWain Pond. One of the main issues, the committee contends, is the higher risk of fire, citing a fire on Hawk Mountain started by fireworks.

The permitting process would be similar to getting a burn permit. Selectman John Bell said the permitting process would be an excellent opportunity to educate people on issues to be aware of, such as fire danger and the effects on animals.

What’s next: The committee will polish a revised copy of the ordinance and working up a sample permit for presentation at a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 8.