Board issues fireworks permit for Park District centennial with on-site safety plan

The Lehi Bluff Village Board on Aug. 25 approved a resolution issuing a fireworks permit to the Lakebrough Park District for a centennial celebration to be held at Blair Park and the Electoral Golf Course on Sept. 13, 2025.

Village staff told the board a permit is required because Section 5‑7‑6‑2 of the village municipal code prohibits the sale, possession or discharge of fireworks except by permit for public exhibitions. The Park District submitted an on‑site safety plan; the village’s fire and police departments reviewed that plan and staff reported it was detailed and appropriate.

A trustee voiced concern about wildlife and pets, saying, "we are a bird village and birds and dogs and all of the creatures in Lake Bluff are negatively impacted by, fireworks celebrations." The village acknowledged those concerns but said the permit will allow a single public exhibition with a safety plan and departmental oversight.

The board approved the resolution by roll call; the clerk recorded aye votes from trustees including Trustee Ryder, Trustee Ellis, Trustee Fisher and President Scharlo. Staff said the permitted event will replace the Park District’s recent birthday-bash format and emphasized that the permit is for a supervised public exhibition under the municipal-code exemption.

Discussion vs. decision: the board’s roll-call vote formally authorized the fireworks exhibition under the municipal code exemption for public displays.

What’s next: the Park District will stage the event under the approved safety plan and the village will monitor compliance with the permit conditions.