Multiple Midwest Cities Approve Fireworks Changes, Tax and Transit Fee Increases

Several city councils have recently approved changes to local ordinances and fees. The McLeansboro City Council implemented a municipal grocery retailers’ occupation tax replacing a repealed state grocery tax, approved fireworks for July 4th with a budget amendment, and discussed zoning changes and city official roles. Knoxville City Council amended its fireworks ordinance to comply with state legislation requiring fireworks to be allowed on July 3rd, 4th, and December 31st, and approved facade improvement projects and salary resolutions. Sioux City City Council raised the monthly bus pass fee from $48 to $50, the first increase since 2010, to offset rising operational costs, and amended its fireworks ordinance to allow fireworks on July 3rd and 4th in accordance with new state law, while advising residents to be considerate of vulnerable populations. These changes reflect common themes of adjusting local regulations to align with state law and addressing budgetary needs.