In response to a recent letter from an interested citizen regarding this July’s Independence Day celebrations, we share the sentiment that it is wonderful that there were only a few minor fires and no reported fireworks-related injuries in our county.

Regarding the issue of restricting fireworks, as public safety professionals, we would be derelict in our duty to those we serve if we didn’t advise the community of how to reduce the risk from potential safety hazards. However, we offer just that: advice. Whether the community chooses to act upon that advice is their choice.

The County Council may choose to adopt an ordinance or it may choose not to do so. In this case, they adopted an ordinance. Now, democracy is running its course. Enough citizens expressed concern that the issue has been put directly to the people.

What better way is there to know the true opinion of the entire

county than to let the voters decide?

San Juan County Chiefs’ Association