Setting off fireworks to remain illegal in Brunswick for now

BRUNSWICK — Brunswick City Council members voted to keep a total prohibition of fireworks for now during Monday's meeting. Ohio House Bill 172 allows individuals to use consumer grade fireworks on certain days of the year such as Memorial Day, July 4 and Labor Day, but cities and townships can opt out of these days. The Brunswick City Council amended Section 672.09 of the City of Brunswick's Codified Ordinances at Monday's meeting. This alters the language of the law according to what the state legislature says has to be in place prior to the state law taking effect but does not change the legality of setting off fireworks. In later legislation, Brunswick City Council may decide if setting off fireworks on certain dates will be legal. "There's things that the (state) legislature did that we must put in," Vice Mayor of Brunswick Nicholas Hanek said. "What a city may or may not do is they can and are allowed to opt out on different days, and while this (ordinance) does not allow for any discharge, that's something that we can discuss." In other news, Council awarded Snider Recreation Inc. for the design build of the inclusive playground with an emergency resolution during the meeting. The inclusive playground still needs additional fundraising, Hanek said. "We want the public to know that we are committed to getting this done," he said. "This is going to be a reality. We still need your help. We still need your donations. We're very thankful for all of you that put this effort in." Ms. Wheelchair Ohio 2022 Krista Allison was recognized at the meeting for her fundraiser that raised money for the inclusive playground. "First of all, thank you again for hosting that event here in the city," Brunswick Mayor Ron Falconi said. "It was a wild success." Contact reporter Madisyn Woodring at (330) 721-4049 or mwoodring@medina-gazette.com.