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Falls City burn ban proposal moves forward

By John Nixon

06/19/2018

(KLZA)-- The Falls City Council advanced a proposed amendment to the municipal code Monday night that would prohibit most fires within the city limits.

If passed, the amendment would ban the burning of all trash, leaves and wood within the city limits.

Burning of fire wood in a metal fire pit or outdoor fireplace would be allowed, but would need to be tended to at all times.

Trash burning proposals have been proposed several times previously. In November, 2012, Falls City voters, voted down a proposal to ban any open burning except when the Fire Chief issued a permit.

Fourth Ward City Councilman Derek Leyden introduced the proposal this time. Leyden said more than just trash and paper are being burned in barrels now, which keeps people from opening their windows in the spring and fall due to the stench. He said “with two trash services in town, that aren't expensive, and with a free tree dump that burns brush and leaves, it's time to change the way we do things.”

Leyden said he does not feel the current ordinance which states trash is to be burned at least 25-feet from a building is being followed. He said the amendment would put some teeth in the ordinance, helping the Police Department be able to enforce the law.

Second Ward Councilman Charlie Bentley cast the only vote against the proposal. Bentley said he believes people ought to be able to do what they want to do on their own property.

City Attorney Mike Dunn said since the public voted down a referendum to ban open burning, it would take at least 75 percent of the Council voting in favor of the amendment to move forward.

The Council approved the amendment 7-1. The proposal must be passed by the Council two more times before going into effect.

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