Fireworks on the Fourth of July have been a part of the day’s festivities since nearly as far back as the country’s beginning. But the pandemic canceled that tradition and the return of fireworks this year on Sanibel is up in the air.
In a hearty discussion among City Council members last week, many of them indicated it might be time to discontinue the 30-minute fireworks show on the Fourth. Fireworks are prohibited on the island, for good reason, with this one traditional exception.
They are detonated at the end of Bailey Road, near San Carlos Bay. Concern was raised over the heavy metals and chemicals found in fireworks polluting the water. Plus, the loud booms scare wildlife. But our environmental experts have said they support the detonation location and see it as a trade-off for 30 minutes of human enjoyment as we celebrate the freedom of our country.
Is it time to bring back the fireworks on Sanibel? Now is the time to voice your opinion. Council members will be discussing the fate of the island’s fireworks show in their May 3 meeting. Contact Sanibel City Council
Fireworks go against everything the island stands for: conservation and wildlife sanctuary. If people want to see fireworks go to Fort Myers.
I agree with the thoughts of Richard Johnson and others on City Council that the toxic part of fireworks dropping into our Sanibel waters is very bad – especially as we have committed to clean water.