News &Notes: July 26

City won't pay for damage caused by fireworks

Oak Creek - The city has denied Mark Verhalen's claim for a $1,160 reimbursement for damage caused to his property when a firework from the city's Fourth of July display started his field on fire.

The Small Claims Committee made the decision yesterday, advising Verhalen to file his complaint with Spielbauer Fireworks, the company that set off the fireworks.

Verhalen's field started on fire about 9:30 p.m. July 4. A neighbor reported the blaze to the Fire Department, and residents living near Verhalen's home, located at 1200 E. Ryan Road, were evacuated. The fire was extinguished in 15 minutes by the Oak Creek Fire Department.

Oak Creek officials asked Verhalen to keep them apprised of the matter and said they hoped this would be a speedy recovery for Verhalen.

There is no word yet on where Verhalen stands in filing a complaint with Spielbauer Fireworks.