A new councilmember was appointed and the first step to allow fireworks in the city limits during certain holidays was taken at Westover’s regular city council meeting.
Gary Webber, 75, was unanimously appointed to replace Leonard Smith as the city’s 3rd Ward councilperson. Councilman Al Yocum was absent from Monday’s meeting at did not vote.
Smith’s letter of resignation was accepted at the council’s second May meeting and Webber said he heard about the opening from his neighbor.
Webber has lived in Westover for 24 years and taught at Morgantown High School for 33. He’s spent 10 years on the city’s planning commission and said he thought he would be able to do more as a member of council. He will have to resign from the planning commission as Councilwoman Janice Goodwin already represents the council on it.
Prior to his approval, he told council if they accepted him he would work to keep Westover pretty much what it is now — a safe place for older people and young families alike. He also hopes to work on attracting more families to the city.
An ordinance that would allow fireworks already legal in West Virginia but not Westover on “patriotic holidays” passed on first reading but not without sparks as Councilwoman Edie Viola voted against it.
“I enjoy fireworks, especially on the 4th of July, but not in the city of Westover,” Viola said. “We have Mylan Park and we also have the Morgantown Riverfront. They have fireworks there every year.”
She expressed also expressed concern about damage to people or property and said it’s just a matter of time until there’s an incident. Viola also said she’s received several complaints about fireworks in Westover in previous years — when they were against ordinance.
Councilman Ralph Mullins said he requested the bill be introduced and said only two people of more than 50 were against the idea in a Facebook poll on a page made up mostly of Westover residents. He also spoke with more than 30 people in person and none found his proposal unreasonable, he said.
The ordinance only permits fireworks on the July 4th, Memorial Day and Labor Day and only from 5 p.m.-10p.m. People must be 18 or older, not under the influence of drugs or alcohol and follow all relevant firework laws.
Additionally, commercial displays or large “pyrotechnic displays” will require permits and proof of insurance or a bond.
There will be an opportunity for the public to comment at the next meeting on June 17 before the bill’s second reading and if passed, adoption.
