As a resident of Circleville, I have been directly affected by the disturbance and inconvenience caused by late-night and prolonged use of fireworks by private citizens enjoying the rights conferred upon them by Ohio House Bill 172. While the bill allows the ignition of fireworks from 4 to 11pm on designated holidays and the weekends before and after the holidays, the damaging effects spill over into the daily lives of other citizens like myself, and our pets.  These continuous sounds can also become triggers to our veterans suffering from PTSD.

This petition is asking that limitations on day and times be amended to the current House Bill for the city of Circleville. Many cities across Central Ohio have banned residential fireworks completely.  We are asking for revisions, not a total ban.  Cities that have banned these include Bexley, Delaware, Dublin, Gahanna, Groveport, Grove City, Hilliard, Marysville, Pickerington, Upper Arlington, Westerville and Worthington. Reynoldsburg allows for the discharging of fireworks between 8pm and 10pm on July 4th. This is an example of communities that have had similar issues with the bill. 

From July 2nd to July 6th, the tranquillity of our neighborhood was overshadowed by non-stop fireworks from 6pm till after midnight. I, like many others, have work commitments and need to rise early in the morning. The incessant noise disrupts our sleep and consequently, our work performance. More so, our pets are traumatized continuously, as their acute hearing amplifies the noise many times over.

The Environmental Protection Agency states that noise pollution not only affects sleep patterns but can also lead to increased levels of stress and other serious health issues. Additionally, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, fireworks can cause anxiety, fear, and panic in pets, leading to damaged property or pets getting lost or running away.

While the right to celebrate is important, the peace and quiet of a neighborhood and the health and well-being of its residents and pets should not be compromised. Therefore, we propose an amendment to House Bill 172 restricting the hours for fireworks usage to avoid late-night disturbances and provide ample quiet hours to allow residents and pets to rest.

In conclusion, I realize this topic is one that frustrates many of your citizens, no matter what side of the topic they stand on.  I would like to see our city help us come to a mutual agreement regarding residential fireworks.