Smiths Falls residents will get another chance to enjoy Canada Day fireworks after an unexpected launch created confusion on July 1.
The Town of Smiths Falls says it has resolved the issue with the fireworks provider after the planned Canada Day display went ahead despite being cancelled because of severe weather.
The town says the original decision to cancel the fireworks was made out of concern for public safety. Officials say severe weather created a risk for residents, visitors, staff, volunteers and emergency response personnel.
However, after the cancellation was announced, the fireworks display proceeded unexpectedly. The town says that caused confusion and disappointment for many people who had either left the area or believed the show would not happen.
Since then, the town has been reviewing the incident with the fireworks provider to determine what happened and what the next steps should be.
The town says those discussions have now concluded, and the matter has been resolved.
The fireworks provider has expressed sincere regret for the confusion and inconvenience caused to residents. The provider has also offered to put on a replacement fireworks display at no additional cost to the town.
Mayor Shawn Pankow says the original cancellation was made with public safety as the top concern. He says the events that followed were not what anyone expected, but the town is pleased to have reached a positive resolution.
Pankow says the provider has shown a commitment to making things right for the community.
The town is now working to choose a new date for the replacement fireworks display. More details will be released once plans are finalized.
The town is thanking residents for their patience, understanding and continued support.
