La Verne : Fireworks Referendum

A referendum petition seeking to repeal La Verne’s ban on fireworks has been qualified for the ballot, according to the county registrar-recorder.

At least 1,531 signatures, or 10% of the city’s registered voters, were confirmed on the 2,728-signature petition.

The petition was filed by nonprofit service organizations which say they will lose thousands of dollars in fund-raising revenue if the ban is not repealed.

The City Council must now either repeal the ordinance or put the issue on the ballot.

If an election is called, it must be held within 103 days of such a decision. A special election could cost between $35,000 and $40,000, according to City Clerk Kathy Hamm.

The council will consider its options at its meeting on Monday at 7 p.m.