LOS ANGELES (July 2, 2022) — Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez held the second annual fireworks buyback in her district collecting 31% more illegal fireworks than in 2021. The 2021 buyback event collected 514 pounds and this year’s was even more successful collecting 673 pounds of illegal fireworks.
All fireworks are illegal in the City of Los Angeles and endanger public safety. In high fire severity zone communities like the Northeast San Fernando Valley, the danger of sparking a wildfire is a very real possibility that could lead to evacuations and devastating damage.
In response to community concerns, Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez piloted in her district the City’s first fireworks buyback program in 2021 and held the second event this year with support of LAPD and LAFD.
“I truly appreciate the community members who voluntarily participated in this buyback effort to remove dangerous fireworks from our communities,” said Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez. “The 31% increase in fireworks collected shows promise for a larger city-wide effort that can enhance public safety for residents during the Fourth of July holiday. I look forward to expanding next year to return peace to neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles.”
Participants received items such as Dodger tickets, gas cards and gift cards to Starbucks and Target. The event was held on Saturday, July 2, 2022 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Brand Park in Mission Hills with a steady stream of cars throughout the day. In total, 75 people participated in the buyback event.
# # #
Los Angeles City Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez serves as the City’s Chair of Public Safety and represents the 7th Council District in the Northeast San Fernando Valley which include the neighborhoods of Sylmar, Mission Hills, Pacoima, Lake View Terrace, Sunland, Tujunga, North Hills, Shadow Hills, and La Tuna Canyon.