Police on watch for illegal fireworks; local clubs ready to sell
Safe and Sane
Gilroy – As July 4 nears, fireworks will be filling the air and police will be filling the streets.
Safe and sane fireworks will go on sale at 16 different locations citywide beginning Saturday. But as churches and booster clubs try to bring in much needed cash for their causes, police and city officials want to make sure residents really are safe and smart with the fireworks they buy.
Just two weeks ago the city passed a new ordinance that brought tougher fines on those who are caught with illegal fireworks.
“The purpose is to get people in line to not shoot off illegal fireworks,” Capt. Jack Robinson of the Gilroy Police Department said about the new fines that could be as high as $750. Robinson said that 12 extra officers will be hitting the streets this long holiday weekend.
Although Gilroy does allow safe and sane fireworks, there are seven areas that have been dubbed “forbidden” because of nearby wild vegetation that can easily catch fire. Those found with legal fireworks in hazardous areas could be slapped with the same fines as those who are caught with illegal fireworks, said Fire Marshal Jackie Bretschneider. Some of the “forbidden” areas are: Eagle Ridge subdivision and Hecker Pass, west of Santa Teresa Boulevard.
The city has made no exceptions.
“Bonfante (Gardens) has requested (in the past) to have fireworks shows and we have had to tell them no,” said Bretschneider about the amusement park that lies in the forbidden areas.
But safe and sane fireworks are allowed throughout most of the city and some groups are using Fourth of July as a way to bring in needed funds.
“There is so much need out there we’re constantly helping people out,” said Pastor Miguel Arias of the Apostolic Assembly Church. “We’re trying to help our community out as much as possible.”
Arias said the money the church makes from the sale of fireworks brings in the most money of any fundraiser they have all year. He said it helps the church donate more money to the community and to help out church members in need of food or clothes.
Robinson said he wants people to enjoy themselves, but said those caught with illegal fireworks will pay the price for breaking the law.
“I want (residents) to know to have fun and enjoy the Fourth of July weekend. But keep in mind that we will be citing them. They may not see us issue the citations, but the citations will come in the mail,” Robinson said. City Administrator Jay Baksa said earlier this month that police can avoid confrontation with crowds and issue the citations through the mail.
“We’re trying to protect (residents) and their neighbors,” Robinson said.
