Sheldon, Iowa — A bill allowing the sale and use of fireworks in Iowa has not yet been signed by Governor Branstad, but the Sheldon City Council has begun a discussion of what action they should take if the bill does become law.
The current City Ordinance prohibits the use of fireworks in Sheldon except where a permit has been granted. At Wednesday’s City Council meeting it was generally acknowledged that in spite of the ordinance, the use of fireworks in Sheldon on the Fourth of July Holiday has been quite prevalent. Sheldon Fire Chief Jerry Meyer told the council that the fire department is not against the proper use of fireworks, but he did feel that it could result in more injuries. Council member Brad Hindt commented that people are going to use fireworks regardless of the code or law. He felt that any ordinance change should include a limit as to how late at night the fireworks could be used. Zach Sawyer said he felt that if the use of fireworks becomes legal at the state level they should be legal in Sheldon. Greg Geels said he wanted more input from Sheldon residents. Mayor Meendering noted that since two of the Council members as well as the police chief were absent from Wednesday’s meeting they should continue this discussion at a later date.
The Council also held a public hearing on the issuance of General Obligation Notes, not to exceed $600-thousand. No comments were heard at the hearing and the Council voted to move forward with the process. The proceeds of the notes will be used to extend the infrastructure in the Crossroads Industrial Park to open up additional lots.
In a related item, the Council gave their okay to the Master Agreement for Engineering on the project at a cost of $43-thousand. This will include the engineering work from the design through project completion.
May 17th has been set as the date for a public hearing on the Preliminary and Final Plat of Prairie Trail Addition and vacation of a Utility Easement. The affected area is directly south of Taco Johns and south of the eastern part of the Farm Credit Services property.
