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HomeMy WebLinkAbout5A Public CommentFrom Ginny Foat Dated: 09/09/2021 We at the PS Animal Shelter are counting on your no vote for legalizing fireworks in PS. Even allowing it for Veterans Day or 4th of july hurts so many for so little except for those that think it is patriotic to see bombs bursting in air! Please direct staff to find alternatives and join other progressive cities in voting NO. Thank you. See you Saturday g1112-a2-t UEM NO. ✓ P Anthony Mejia From: May Agresor <mayagresor@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:52 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A INOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. To whom it may concern, My name is May Agresor, I have lived in Palm Springs for 29 years and have never missed a firework show until 2020. 1 understand the frustration of those in the community that are against the firework show every 4th of July because it scares their pets and some veterans with ptsd. However, I own two dogs and I have always made plans to keep them safe during the show. This is what a pet owner does, we make accommodations for our dogs so others can enjoy the show. Another factor was the concern of veterans with ptsd. On the contrary, I have noticed that there were some veterans who really enjoyed the firework shows. For example, we had fireworks in our veterans' parades and other special events. Maybe for those who are veterans, who have ptsd, can wear noise cancelling earbuds or make other plans. In addition, we have made sacrifices as a community when it comes to accommodating tourists and other special events (Coachella, Splash House, White Party, and etc.). Which are 3 day events in multiple weeks. The firework show lasts for a few minutes for one day. I have heard from people in my neighborhood who were really upset about not having a firework show last July, most of those people were children. We have to remember we still have children in this community, who look forward to fireworks. It's disheartening to know that we would rather take something exciting from a child, rather than making accommodations for the two factors. I have also noticed that last July 4th we had people set off multiple fireworks at the time of when the show would happen. The city can try to regulate this but they didn't. But if we had a set show, at least the show can be controlled. Having people set off fireworks in the neighborhood last July actually made my dogs scared even more, since I thought we were not going to have a show, I was not able to bring them into their room right away. This pandemic has brought our spirits down in the Valley, but having fireworks at least during the 4th of July can certainly uplift us up, even if it's for a few minutes. Thank you, Mayrose Agresor Mayrose Agresor, MSN, RN, PHN Neonatal Nurse Desert Regional Medical Center (760) 851-7840 ITEM NO. 5 C1Iq)'Uzi Anthony Mejia From: george ramos <grinpsca@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:53 PM To: City Clerk Subject: 2022 fireworks NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Please DO NOt bring back fireworks for the safety of our pets and others. g1allvzt C,oYhm�v�- ITEM NO. Monique Lomeli From: Patricia Fox <iaprz4u@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, September 10, 2021 2:55 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Addressing Item 5a NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. I am writing to ask that you please protect pets and wildlife by keeping the City of Palm Springs Firework Free. Thank you, Patricia Fox 949-500-7599 °1h�20Z1 LAA9 c. C 0 MMC44 ITEM NO. ✓ r' Monique Lomeli From: george ramos <grinpsca@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:53 PM To: City Clerk Subject: 2022 fireworks NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Please DO NOt bring back fireworks for the safety of our pets and others. 4114 1 u2, VV,Aqki Cornwq,* ITEM NO. 9 A Monique Lomeli From: May Agresor <mayagresor@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:52 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. To whom it may concern, My name is May Agresor, I have lived in Palm Springs for 29 years and have never missed a firework show until 2020. 1 understand the frustration of those in the community that are against the firework show every 4th of July because it scares their pets and some veterans with ptsd. However, I own two dogs and I have always made plans to keep them safe during the show. This is what a pet owner does, we make accommodations for our dogs so others can enjoy the show. Another factor was the concern of veterans with ptsd. On the contrary, I have noticed that there were some veterans who really enjoyed the firework shows. For example, we had fireworks in our veterans' parades and other special events. Maybe for those who are veterans, who have ptsd, can wear noise cancelling earbuds or make other plans. In addition, we have made sacrifices as a community when it comes to accommodating tourists and other special events (Coachella, Splash House, White Party, and etc.). Which are 3 day events in multiple weeks. The firework show lasts for a few minutes for one day. I have heard from people in my neighborhood who were really upset about not having a firework show last July, most of those people were children. We have to remember we still have children in this community, who look forward to fireworks. It's disheartening to know that we would rather take something exciting from a child, rather than making accommodations for the two factors. I have also noticed that last July 4th we had people set off multiple fireworks at the time of when the show would happen. The city can try to regulate this but they didn't. But if we had a set show, at least the show can be controlled. Having people set off fireworks in the neighborhood last July actually made my dogs scared even more, since I thought we were not going to have a show, I was not able to bring them into their room right away. This pandemic has brought our spirits down in the Valley, but having fireworks at least during the 4th of July can certainly uplift us up, even if it's for a few minutes. Thank you, Mayrose Agresor Mayrose Agresor, MSN, RN, PHN Neonatal Nurse Desert Regional Medical Center (760) 851-7840 qLglz.oZ� Y"itc, c()w\w,cr* ITEM NO. 6 P Monique Lomeli From: Nancy Hulme <nancyhulme@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:45 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Public Comment: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. would like to make a public comment on Item 5A, please. am against the use of fireworks on July 4th or any holiday/special events. Fireworks are the source of traumatic noise pollution and potential fire danger. The money could be better spent on silent light shows using drones or other, safer ways of celebrating. thank you for your consideration. Nancy Hulme Palm Springs, CA 415-747-2578 glgI-.'bz1 M11co C 0VY1MU +-- ITEM N4. P Monique Lomeli From: Nancy Hulme <nancyhulme@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:45 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Public Comment: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. would like to make a public comment on Item 5A, please. am against the use of fireworks on July 4th or any holiday/special events. Fireworks are the source of traumatic noise pollution and potential fire danger. The money could be better spent on silent light shows using drones or other, safer ways of celebrating. thank you for your consideration. Nancy Hulme Palm Springs, CA 415-747-2578 01)�I2-424 TWO1 kL CA YY\- e^ -- ITEM NO. 5 R Monique Lomeli From: Tim Watts <cardude151 @gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:28 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A Fireworks ban NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Hello, I would like to voice my support for the city's ban on fireworks. These displays, whether for public or private viewing, pose a significant threat to the pets of our community. Additionally, anyone (particularly those that have served in our armed forces) find them to be triggering if they suffer from PTSD. There is an environmental impact as well that damages our fragile desert ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabit it. I applauded the city's decision to replace the traditional 4th of July fireworks show with a laser show, which still allows residents to celebrate our independence in a healthier manner. I implore the city council to consider keeping the fireworks ban in place for the health and welfare of our residents, their pets, and the environment. Respectfully, Tim Watts Palm Springs resident �l�G Co rMM NO. HOSPITALITY ASSOC IATI ON The Hospitality Community Connection September 13, 2021 Christie Holstege — Mayor City Council Members City of Palm Springs 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Mayor Holstege & City Council of Palm Springs, The Board of Directors of the Palm Springs Hospitality Association would like to take this opportunity to offer our full support in keeping permitted and professionally operated firework displays legal within the City of Palm Springs. A total ban of this type of firework display could potentially damage tourism, the property rental market and tax revenue for the city. Annual celebrations such as the 4th of July and Veterans Day are accented by the enjoyment of fireworks and help create a sense of community spirit. Another example is the grand firework display at the conclusion of White Party Palm Springs. This has become a highly anticipated component of their annual program, which attracts thousands of attendees. The new downtown revitalization project and the successful return of the Forever Marilyn statue, fuel our continued growth and is providing a vibrant downtown for years to come. A firework display for the new park grand opening ceremony can assist in offering renewed excitement for city accomplishments. On September 9th, 2021, during our monthly PSHA Board of Directors meeting, this issue was discussed at length and a vote was taken. The result from the Board was a unanimous "yes" in favor of keeping permitted and professionally operated firework displays within the City of Palm Springs. We hope you agree with our position and approve permitted and professionally operated firework displays. We greatly appreciate you considering our request. Aftab Dada President of The Palm Springs Hospitality Association Palm Springs Hospitality Association Board of Directors 111 ZOZ L j G CD mwV,rr{— UEM NO. Anthony Mejia From: Nancy Hulme <nancyhulme@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:45 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Public Comment: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. I would like to make a public comment on Item 5A, please. I am against the use of fireworks on July 4th or any holiday/special events. Fireworks are the source of traumatic noise pollution and potential fire danger. The money could be better spent on silent light shows using drones or other, safer ways of celebrating. thank you for your consideration. Nancy Hulme Palm Springs, CA 415-747-2578 919 1 Uzi 7u/b l t c' Gv WIY►n.e'-A,— rrEM NO. SA Anthony Mejia From: Bonnie Ruttan <bonnieruttan@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:32 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. To City Council I'm writing to request that the city implement the use of laser light shows in lieu of fireworks As a volunteer at the animal shelter I've witnessed the influx of terrified dogs who ran away trying to escape the explosions. Less fortunate pets never get brought to the shelter or end up dead from being hit by a car Laser displays are very forward thinking and more environmentally sound Palm Springs has always been an innovative leader and this would be another example of progress Thank you for your consideration Cordially Bonnie Ruttan 1111 Abrigo Rd PS Sent from my iPad qJC,IZD2,� �,lrllpii � CO ITEMNO. 5 Anthony Mejia From: Kathy Hart < kathy.di rector@ bonesnscones.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 2:19 PM To: City Clerk Subject: item SA NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Good Afternoon, I am writing to express my opinion in regard to the reinstatement of fireworks displays in our city. We can make a better choice other than placing our pets, wildlife and our environment at risk. I personally have spent many evenings of celebration comforting my frightened, quivering dog(s) and have heard the anguished cries from friends & others who had pets escape due to the noise. Please vote to do the right thing and do not reinstate the use of fireworks in Palm Springs. Thank you, Kathy Hart Cto.pit"es-n-sco airperson & CEO �+ rI��J Bones-N-Scones, Inc. (760)864-1133 01-1I ?'I ,V, �' (I Comme,n�- ITEM NO. 5R Anthony Mejia From: Tim Watts <cardude151 @gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:28 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A Fireworks ban NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Hello, I would like to voice my support for the city's ban on fireworks. These displays, whether for public or private viewing, pose a significant threat to the pets of our community. Additionally, anyone (particularly those that have served in our armed forces) find them to be triggering if they suffer from PTSD. There is an environmental impact as well that damages our fragile desert ecosystem and the wildlife that inhabit it. I applauded the city's decision to replace the traditional 4th of July fireworks show with a laser show, which still allows residents to celebrate our independence in a healthier manner. I implore the city council to consider keeping the fireworks ban in place for the health and welfare of our residents, their pets, and the environment. Respectfully, Tim Watts Palm Springs resident oUIti lnu w/bli c, Gam�nP�v4- M No. Anthony Mejia From: Patty Lasky <pa120012@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 3:59 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Public Comment - Item 5 A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. I am writing to express my thoughts on Item 5A. I support other options to traditional fireworks. I am counting on our City Council to provide the visionary leadership on this issue, taking the lead to protect the environment, our citizens who experience negative impact such as veterans and children on the autism spectrum, and our pets who can be traumatized. As stated in the staff report, air quality is impacted which affects all of us, but even more significantly for those with chronic respiratory or cardiac conditions. I am counting on our City Council to direct staff to cease permitting of fireworks and look at other options for celebrations. Thank you in advance for moving in a positive direction on this issue. Patty Lasky 520 E Murray Canyon Dr, #113 Palm Springs, Ca 92264 Year round Palm Springs Resident q 1cl i zo?, I y1&'9"U fr MYN41 {- rrEM NO. Anthonv Meiia From: Fire <rsmsfire@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 4:03 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Public Comment - Please create alternate celebratory methods to replace all fireworks as they are too dangerous and cause an immense plethora of tragedies and problems no not right now he said I could hello there why yeah so I think probably had it too... NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Hello, I am Ruth Sinfuego and was born in Palm Springa and have lived here since. While fireworks have been entertaining for many years it has been at an extreme cost to the public that most people are still unaware. Fireworks are absolutely not healthy for pets, wildlife, humans or the planet. Far too often causing death of innocent pets by drowning in pools or escaping the yard in panic only to be run over and r cause auto accidents in their attempt to avoid a dog. Even at times even causing human deaths in the auto accidents. Ironically if the public knew how much suffering fireworks cause animals and others they would be up in arms. Most are unaware. Like all important matters of governing educating the public is key. Ultimately the decision is in the hands of our elected leaders upon whom we rely to act responsibly on behalf of the citizens. As a parent must decline a trip to the amusement park in the best interest of the child for their safety in these trying time so does the population rely upon you now to act to eliminate fireworks for the betterment and safety of those whom you have been ejected by in order to serve their best safest interest. Firework Facts Fireworks can emit sounds of up to 190 decibels (110 to 115 decibels above the range of 75- 80 decibels where damage to the human ear begins) and are louder than gunshots and some jet planes). 0 The hearing of many species, including dogs and cats, is much more sensitive than the hearing of humans. Iq 1?'Ov VvOtu Cpmivvz�- ITEM N0. 0 Dogs are able to hear up to 60,OOOhz, compared to a 20,OOOhz maximum for humans. They hear more than twice as many frequencies as humans, and they can also hear sounds more than four times further away. 0 Common dog reactions to fireworks are freezing or paralysis, uncontrolled attempts to escape and hide, and tremors. Other more intense signs may also be present, such as salivation, tachycardia, intense vocalizations, urination or defecation, increased activity, hyper -alertness and gastrointestinal disorders. All these signs are indicative of great discomfort. 0 Cats may not show their fear of fireworks as demonstratively as dogs, but their responses are similar to those of dogs, such as trying to hide or escape. Outdoor cats in particular become extremely frightened and they have a high risk of being poisoned by fireworks debris. 0 Experts estimate that loud sounds, mainly fireworks and thunderstorms, make up one fifth of all companion animal disappearances, which is evidenced by the high number of lost and stray pet intakes our public shelters experience every July 4,�. 0 Horses are sensitive creatures and nearly 80% will show signs of stress and fear during fireworks displays and will often try to flee. o Wildlife species are just as frightened of fireworks as cats and dogs are. Fireworks explosions in the vicinity of wildlife can cause them to panic, running or flying frantically, sensing a mortal threat. o Colonial bird species are particularly at risk during fireworks displays. o A New Year's Eve 2010 fireworks display in Arkansas resulted in a massive bird slaughter. Some 5,000 red -winged blackbirds, European starlings, common grackles and brown -headed cowbirds suffered blunt -force trauma after colliding with cars, trees and buildings after being frightened by the large display. o Many birds who flee do not know how to return to their nests due to their erratic flight path, leaving their helpless young to die. o The harmful effect of fireworks on the well-being of wild animals can clearly be seen in the behavior of captive animals in zoos, causing frantic running, pacing and a variety of other nervous behaviors. o Animals aren't the only beings adversely affected by fireworks. Victims of gun violence and others suffering from PTSD, including some combat veterans, can be traumatized. o Fireworks are poisonous, releasing harmful particles such as fine dust (PM10) that is toxic to living creatures, including humans. These toxins can cause illness and worsen existingconditions, including high blood pressure, asthma, irregular heartbeat and heart attacks. 0 The National Fire Protection Association estimates nearly 19,000 fires are started by fireworks annually in the United States alone. These fires cause massive destruction to property, wildlands, and tragically, human lives, including brave firefighters. Record heat and extreme drought in our region make fireworks displays even more dangerous. Palm Springs municipal code 5614.1 prohibits the sale, storage, use, or discharging of fireworks for private use in Palm Springs. Yet, every year for decades throughout the city, fireworks are illegally released in the streets, parks and backyards of residents, rarely with any consequence or penalty. can Palm Springs has always been a pioneer in many directions as well as a champion for human rights especially for alternative lifestyles. We can be a model for our residents and for other communities, retiring the harmful tradition of fireworks displays and adopting a humane, safe and environmentally sound way to proudly celebrate our nation's independence, and pay tribute to our brave military men and women. Sincerely Ruth Sinfuego 760-534-4581 Anthony Mejia From: Hedges, Tamara <thedges@psanimalshelter.org> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 3:43 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Dear Mayor Holstege and Councilmembers, I want to thank you for your decision to cancel the fireworks display this past July 41" and providing our community with safe, environmentally responsible and humane alternatives that everyone could enjoy. I recognize the decision was not an easy one. Ending time-honored traditions is difficult both operationally and emotionally. But fireworks are a tradition that does much more harm than good and should not be continued for the sake of nostalgia. There are excellent alternatives, including quality laser light shows set to music, that allow us to celebrate our national holidays with pride and pay tribute to our brave soldiers. Many of us with pets know firsthand how traumatic and terrifying fireworks are for pets. Powerful public fireworks can emit sounds of up to 190 decibels (110 to 115 decibels above the range of 75-80 decibels where damage to the human ear begins) and are louder than gunshots and some jet planes. Many pet owners go to great measures to calm and protect our pets. Even so, each time there are public fireworks displays, pets across Palm Springs bolt from their homes, terrified and disoriented, particularly dogs. Some of them are quickly reunited. Some are not so fortunate and remain lost, or worse, injured or killed. Dogs are able to hear up to 60,OOOhz, compared to a 20,OOOhz maximum for humans. They hear more than twice as many frequencies as humans, and they can also hear sounds more than four times further away. Experts estimate that loud sounds, mainly fireworks and thunderstorms, make up one fifth of all companion animal disappearances, which is evidenced by the high number of lost and stray pet intakes our public shelters experience every July 4t". We cannot control the weather, but we can control fireworks. Wildlife species are also traumatized by fireworks. Birds can become so frightened and disoriented that they leave their roost and fly into trees, poles, cars, and other objects, becoming severely injured or even dying. Many birds who flee do not know how to return to their nests due to their erratic flight path, leaving their helpless young to die. Bighorn sheep, rabbits, coyotes and other wildlife who call Palm Springs home are traumatized every time there is a fireworks display in our community. We have a responsibility to protect these native species. As you are aware, the negative impact of fireworks on air quality is well documented, as are the wildfire risks. Fireworks can also trigger PTSD in individuals who are victims of gun violence or our brave soldiers who have served in combat. This is also well documented. Palm Springs municipal code prohibits the sale, storage, use, or discharging of fireworks for private use in Palm Springs. Yet, every year for decades throughout the city, fireworks are illegally ignited in the streets, parks and backyards of residents, rarely with any consequence or penalty. This too needs to change. I I V1 I Zo 2 t i ��itu WfhwQxtA- MM i. Whether in backyards or public stadiums, it is time to move away from toxic, dangerous and traumatizing entertainment to healthier, safer and more humane celebrations. Palm Springs can lead the way. Thank you for your time and your consideration. Tamara Hedges President, Board of Directors s nimalsheiter.or Anthony Mejia From: Hilary Harrington <jhilary72@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 1:21 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Fireworks NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. To Whom It May Concern, Please, KEEP THE FIREWORKS. -Not laser. Real old fashion fireworks. -No fires in the past 51 years I've been here. -Residents can play music to drown out sound, or, make prior arrangements for pets. -The stadium counts on the revenue from the 5,000 people who attend on the 4th Of July. It's a family affair. — Hilary ITEM NO. 5 n �- Bighorn Institute + rrrr7lr'r'r,ril September 9, 2021 1.,14 rr7urrr (hLrrninainu I IONORARY (•I IAIRNIAN' 01 H tiURAISIN(i In MC111orialn Ocnlld R. ford Mayor Christy Holstege ;.;rl, r4t:.rrrr,;l,rf rir. (,lr7ial.,N71r. City of Palm Springs PRI*SID 'N'I I:Nl1_RI 11. 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way 1.:1;,rence cone. NI.n. Palm Springs, CA 92262 I'1'11Cst W. I111h11 Boll Ihmard Via Electronic Mail (. h: rlo W. ellner. DY.N1. RM1:1111 C. IMCCIII111-- Alralndra.l. Sheldon Dear Mayor Holstege and City Council: RUAI D 01: DIRLO—ORS We are writing in regards to item 5A on this evening's council meeting 'like Rkkin agenda: fireworks within Palm Springs. We are urging you to seriously Dal e St,+ekl" n" consider alternative options to traditional fireworks. We feel traditional fireworks are an outdated display of patriotism and have negative effects on I(nllinc113ur1/:11,1 . I).�.�I.' I,:•; r>..i<r,,» animals, people (particularly veterans) and the environment. While our pets Kenn A. 1(lti,el-W can endure significant stress from fireworks, wildlife can suffer as well. As heaoln , Rand; 13.11dCC- I'm sure you're aware, a herd of endangered Peninsular bighorn sheep reside in the mountains adjacent to Palm Springs. They can flee frightening loud Shall Barioll. M.D. noises such as fireworks emit, but we must consider the stress and forced I):uticlle C:,nr displacement they may be undergoing for short-lived entertainment. N;clx,l:l�.I.lidleCalle S; Il i:l M. F.Inkr Fireworks have been shown to cause stress to people with PTSD, particularly Robert N. Gehharl. M-1) veterans, and this is certainly not the thanks they deserve for serving our .1"di'h 1. S:111'11 country. The environmental impacts of fireworks are also of concern. The ;. excessive noise, elevated particulate matter and potential to cause wildfires DMINIS I RAI If)\ are reasons alone to pursue other, more environmentally sensitive options to bille's K. Del "''=` show our patriotism and celebrate other community events. !L•:r urr it lf;rr4r,,! 11ei ' 1'"" `I n;rr Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments. L.r,.:u 7. r rtrr.rr.�r.l ADVISORS Respectfully, Math k c. Off,], w A Ire_,:-li..re�u llr,crr Guar l'w r. -� Raul Valdes, 1110 lr :r llrrrru .Ur Rr (nh'.rvn � / J. 0-1iu Willi:nns. I.>.I. Legal cm,11 r Aimee J. Byard Associate Director Biologist N,b1 i G to rnrnky"_ UEMNO., IN). li:r\ :'(,'_ I'Am I)c m. (':llilimnia 9226I-0202 1el (760) 346-7=34 1 mail I;I'a lit hnrnln�tilutr.ur� t;+++;.lii�ln+rnlmlilul�.ur_ Anthony Mejia From: Patty Shenker <pattyshenker@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 11:12 AM To: City Clerk Subject: FIREWORKS NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Dear City Clerk- I would so appreciate it if you would make sure all the Councilmembers get our letter. Thank you. ps Dear Mayor Holstege & Councilmembers- We are writing today to voice our opinion on fireworks. We wrote before July 4th to urge you to not have fireworks so it is nice to see that you are revisiting this important & dangerous issue. We know you are well aware of how traumatic, dangerous & deadly fireworks can be to our pets- dogs, cats & horses but they are also that for wildlife. Birds often fly erratically and cannot find their way back to their nests, leaving babies to die. In Arkansas on New Year's Eve, 2010, their fireworks resulted in a massive bird slaughter. We have our own story about our little dog, Molly Brown, who jumped out of a second story apartment out of fear twice, on July 3rd & then on the fourth. It was the neighborhood fireworks that frightened her on the third and both those & the city's display on July 4th that made her jump again. We nailed the window down on July 4th to ensure that she wouldn't jump again but, out of her tremendous fear & adrenaline, she was able to pry it open and jump again. Luckily, she did survive this ordeal. We never leave our pets on holidays with planned fireworks; it just isn't worth it. We urge you to also think about these individual neighborhood fireworks which probably cause as much suffering as the big ones. We have learned that PS prohibits the sale & discharging of fireworks for private use but it is definitely not being enforced. We urge your enforcement here because laws are really only as good as their enforcements. Fireworks can also be traumatic for many people- those with PTSD, including veterans, victims of gun violence and young children. Lastly, California is burning up due to record heat, extreme drought and the consequential uncontrollable fires. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that nearly 19,000 fires are started by fireworks in our country. To ensure the safety of all your Palm Springs residents, human & animal, we think it is imperative to move forward to a total ban on fireworks. There are safer, fun ways to celebrate holidays; let's have Palm Springs lead the way to safer holidays for all. Thank you for your time & attention. Patty Shenker & Doug & Julia Stoll 825 S. Riverside Dr. 92264 &I1CAI?,0Z\ Fw�b 1 � L C omm.p�r►.-� rMM NO. �/ Anthony Mejia To: City of Palm Springs Subject: RE: *NEW SUBMISSION* Submit Public Comment to the City of Palm Springs From: City of Palm Springs <palmspringsca@enotify.visioninternet.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 11:00 AM To: City Clerk <CityClerk@palmspringsca.gov>; Anthony Mejia <Anthony.Mejia@palmspringsca.gov> Subject: *NEW SUBMISSION* Submit Public Comment to the City of Palm Springs NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Full Name/Nombre Steve Fraire City of Residence/Ciudad de residencia Indio., Phone (optional) /Telefono (opcional) 6197338615 Email (optional/opcional) sfraire2C@aol.com Your Comments/Sus comentarios Item (5) A. New Business, Discussion of the Use of Fireworks. I am a semi retired public school administrator with over 40 years of experience throughout the state . This including serving as a site administrator, a Marin County Juvenile Justice Commissioner, and Administrator of Child Welfare, Attendance and School Safety with the San Diego County Office of Education. Over the past six years after relocating to the desert, I have worked as the Director of Guest Services with the Palm Springs Power. I have been involved with the annual Fourth of July event and from my background with families, children, and the community at large I have found it to be outstanding. It is very special and unique. It provides a safe and well managed celebration for the City of Palm, residents, and visitors to come together to experience one of our countries most positive traditions. I encourage the city to continue the activity and put into place an evaluation process for review in the future. Thank you, City of Palm Springs This is an automated message generated by Granicus. Please do not reply directly to this email. q I °� I 2u2i p uMl ► c, U��mr ITEM NO. Anthony Mejia From: Nancy <nancy@forstella.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 12:23 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A - Public Comment NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Dear City Council Members; Please do NOT allow fireworks in city celebrations. am very concerned about the fire danger, but more importantly I think we should have evolved by now from noisy, dangerous public displays. Our pets and veterans with PTSD deserve more consideration from our community. Thank you, Nancy Parsons 831 Mira Grande Palm Springs c 1 2,02I comr 1 TTEM NO. Anthony Mejia From: Chuck Swenson <chuckswenson8040@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 12:52 PM To: City Clerk Subject: Item 5A NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. I am writing to express my deep belief that fireworks should be eliminated from all events going forward. It is a common fact that they cause a great deal of suffering to anyone with post -traumatic distress syndrome, as well as many other mental health issues. Finally, these people are being addressed throughout the world. Palm Springs needs to be part of that movement. Additionally, fireworks cause a great deal of anxiety to many dogs, cats, and other animals. Hundreds of them panic and become stray or hit by cars every year, including in Palm Springs. Fireworks are simply in humane, and this is realized by a growing number of people. Fireworks can also be very environmentally hazardous, emitting toxic chemicals as well as causing wildfires. Making fireworks unlawful is the socially responsible thing to do, and the trend to do so is growing - let's please be part of that intelligent, caring kind of thinking. Tub1► G G0Mryvin+ ITEM NO. Anthony Mejia From: PS Wildlife <pswildlifeadvocates@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, September 9, 2021 8:13 AM To: City Clerk Subject: Laser light show instead of fireworks NOTICE: This message originated outside of The City of Palm Springs -- DO NOT CLICK on links or open attachments unless you are sure the content is safe. Dear Councilmembers and Mayor, Thank you for taking the time to discuss fireworks and their alternatives. I understand that fireworks are a tradition but traditions often need to be replaced as we progress. In this particular case I am writing to you in concern of wildlife and how fireworks affect them. It's incredibly disruptive to them, frightening them, traumatizing them and in some cases killing them. There have been cases where fireworks have caused large flocks of birds to have fatal accidents because they were so startled by fireworks. Coyotes too are very sensitive to sound and with the extreme temperature and drought that we are facing, wildlife are under extreme pressure. Let's not add to it by creating what amounts to a war zone to them. Yes this past year's laser show was a disappointment but with proper planning I imagine there can be a very grand laser show that will be much more interesting and festive than fireworks. We have such a peaceful city, let's please keep it that way and say no to fireworks again next year and in the years following. Thank you for your time and consideration. Bettina Rosmarino Palm Springs Wildlife Advocates 760.833.5003 httPs:Hm.facebook.com/PSWildlife/ aI q lusir PUgcl� Caw�r+�ur ITEM NO. ��