Dispute over fireworks sales tent winds down

Neighborly tension surrounding the a fireworks tent on Airport Avenue seemed to simmer down this week, after a series of disputes involving police.

Tent owner David Robbs said the dispute started five days before setting up shop, when a neighbor accused Robbs of placing the tent too close to the residence next door. Robbs said the state had already approved his lease of the location, but the neighbor called police who confirmed Robbs’ paperwork.

In the following days, the same neighbor accused Robbs of selling fireworks without a license, violating nuisance ordinances and placing a grand opening sign too close to the right of way.

Robbs said all cases were addressed and dismissed by police at the time, but he agreed to move the sign a few feet farther from the road.

“I am approved to sell this year, I’ve passed all of the inspections and everything,” Robbs said. “I’ve not had any other complaints outside of this person.”

Amid the police calls, Robbs said the neighbor placed a “closed” sign in front of his grand opening sign, verbally harassed him. Robbs retaliated by posting a new sign that said “my neighbor is a Karen,” but said he took it down shortly after in an effort to de-escalate.

The move apparently worked. Robbs said he hadn’t dealt with any more police incidents since bringing his concerns to the City Council last week.

“I think he just gets upset when people use his driveway,” Robbs said. “We don’t talk.”