By Leslie Rumfelt
I would encourage the voters of the City of Lakeport to not be bamboozled by the blizzard of stretched truths and slick brochures received in your mailboxes ? paid for by the TNT Fireworks Company, who, of course, would like to continue profiting from the sale of fireworks in Lakeport.
I feel the real issue of Measure C is not funding for youth groups, but rather having a safe Fourth of July. Lakeport continued to allow the sale of fireworks many years beyond the time the rest of Lake County stopped this practice. The safe and responsible thing, which has been the recommendation of the fire districts throughout Lake County, would be to vote no on Measure C.
As a Lakeport resident I do not enjoy being the county seat for selling fireworks to the entire county, having it set off within our city limits, leaving the smoke, noise, litter, and frightened pets in its wake. The surrounding communities also do not appreciate fireworks being sold in Lakeport and taken back to their communities, creating fire danger throughout the county. It would be irresponsible for the City of Lakeport to continue to allow the sale of fireworks.
There are a number of ways to be patriotic and celebrate the Fourth of July without personally lighting the match, such as continuing to support professional fireworks displays provided by the various entities around the lake, proudly display the American flag, etc.
Lakeport city officials are not against youth groups and have supported their creative alternative fundraisers. My husband and I contribute to these fundraisers, whereas we never buy fireworks. I think a lot of Lakeport residents who never buy fireworks are willing to financially support youth activities, which was clearly indicated by the great turnout for the breakfast fundraiser held at the firehouse.
I”m sure the majority of the money brought in through the sale of fireworks does not come from Lakeport residents. Vote no on Measure C and give the residents of Lakeport an alternative opportunity to show their generosity and support for our youth.
Please respect the educated opinions of our fire chiefs, other law enforcement personnel, and local veterinarians and defeat Measure C. This is not a youth funding issue, but rather a public safety issue.
Please let your conscience be your guide as you cast your private vote against Measure C.
Leslie Rumfelt
Lakeport
