Sparks fly over fireworks flap

BY JAN BAKER
VERNON — According to Ted Warnet of the Highland Lakes Fire Department, Vernon Township and his department have organized and executed an Independence Day fireworks display for the last 17 years.

Warnet appeared before the council at their April 8 meeting because of a request made by Mt. Creek to hold its own display on July 5 this year. Warnet said that Mt. Creek used to have a free display but discontinued the event in 1994. At that time, the fire departments started organizing a display for area residents. Since they don’t have funds to pay for the display, the departments would charge a per car fee to anyone wishing to attend the event. They would also hold other fundraisers to obtain the funds necessary to buy the fireworks. Warnet said the display costs over $10,000 each year.

After checking the township administrative code, Warnet said that it provides for only one display on the same day, but doesn’t address two displays in the same week. The fire departments are not having their display the same day, but Mt. Creek is holding its event free of charge, which would most likely affect attendance at the fire department's event. Since the fireworks have to be ordered well in advance of the date, the fire companies have already paid more than $10,000 for this year’s event.

Warnet said that he has not been able to speak to anyone at Mt. Creek but is asking the resort to hold their show on a different weekend.

At the April 22 meeting, the council tabled the resolution for a second time after Mayor Victor Marotta announced that members of the fire departments were supposed to meet with a Mt. Creek official, Bill Benson. Marotta said he feels there is a willingness to work the problem out and suggested “the matter be tabled until negotiations are completed.”

Councilmember Dan Kadish said at both meetings that he remembered an ordinance concerning the fireworks being held by the fire departments. Marotta said a complete search of both resolutions and ordinances of the town had been done, but nothing was found. Kadish suggesting checking the fire marshall’s records and insisted an ordinance exists.

Since there is still time for the council to vote on the resolution, the fireworks issue will remain on the table pending negotiations. The council's next meeting is on May 13.