GOSHEN —
An Elkhart County burn ban set to expire Friday has been extended through next Monday.
Initially signed last Friday by Elkhart County Board of Commissioners president Terry Rodino, the burn ban was set to run through this Friday. But on Monday commissioners voted to extend the ban for an additional two days following reports that weather in the county is expected to remain dry and in the high 80s and 90s throughout the week and into the weekend.
The decision to extend the burn ban through the coming weekend was made following a request by County Attorney Craig Buche that the burn ban signed by Rodino be formally ratified by the entire board.
Buche said that since Rodino was forced to sign the burn ban individually as an emergency measure, it was his opinion that the other two commissioners and Rodino should unanimously ratify that decision during their Monday meeting in order to allow the burn ban to be extended in the future should it be deemed necessary.
As it stands now, the county burn ban prohibits county residents from using campfires or other recreational fires unless they are enclosed. Burning will be allowed in burn barrels, however, but only those covered with a 1/4 inch mesh top and only from dusk to dawn. The ban also prohibits open burning of any kind using conventional fuel, including wood or other combustible matter, with the exception of grills fueled by charcoal briquettes or propane.
As an extended safety measure, Rodino said county attorneys have also been asked to look into the possibility of banning use of fireworks while the burn ban is in effect. As it is, the burn ban only strongly encourages resident to refrain from using fireworks.
“We’re researching to see what we could or could not do if we wanted to ban fireworks if the burn ban continues close to the Fourth of July,” Rodino said. “You’ve got the state law and you’ve got the county law, so right now we’re seeing who trumps who as far as what our options our for initiating a ban.”
With the current burn ban extended until next Monday, Rodino said it is his hope that the county legal staff will have a recommendation on the possibilities of a temporary fireworks ban at the board’s upcoming Monday meeting.
Local News
Related Photos
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The Elkhart County Council will consider a ban on fireworks because of the drought and burn ban. SAM HOUSEHOLDER | THE GOSHEN NEWS
Elkhart County burn ban extended from Friday to Monday
Commissioners discuss banning fireworks as well
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