La Jolla Cove is the spot. Each Fourth of July tens of thousands gather to watch the annual fireworks display. The pyrotechnics are sent out over the water lighting up the night sky. But, maybe not this year.
A California judge has ruled that permits for fireworks displays require an environmental study. The Coastal Environmental Rights Foundation argued that debris falling into the water and disturbance to waterland species required that the fireworks be stopped until an environmental review be completed as part of the permit process.
Both the City of San Diego and the La Jolla Community Fireworks Foundation are seeking a stay of the judge’s order to keep the display on schedule this year. San Diego mayor Jerry Sanders reports one upside to the controversy. National publicity has spawned contributions to help the city that more than cover the costs of the fireworks.
The broad ruling by Judge Quinn may also impact all other events requiring permits for the use of public parks and facilities. City officials estimate that the ruling could impact as many as 20,000 events including parades, charity walks and runs, art fairs and even weddings. For a partial list, check out the story at SignOnSanDiego .
Contributor, aka tidbits. Retired attorney in complex litigation, death penalty defense and constitutional law. Former Nat’l Board Chair: Alzheimer’s Association. Served on multiple political campaigns, including two for U.S. Senator Mark O. Hatfield (R-OR). Contributing author to three legal books and multiple legal publications.