By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post

Under a resolution passed by the Ellis County Commission on Monday, the rural fire chief was given the authority to enact and lift the county-wide burn ban as he sees fit, based on the weather conditions.

Ellis County Rural Fire Director Darin Myers said it is has been about five weeks since the county originally lifted the ban. He said there have been 178 controlled burns since, and there have been just two violations.

Myers said with the hotter temperatures on the way, people who need to burn should do it soon.

“It’s probably not going to be too much longer before it’s a good idea to put the burn ban back in place,” Myers said.

People who do conduct a controlled burn still must contact dispatch before doing so.

The commission also approved a resolution clarifying the resolution banning fireworks in the county.

Earlier this year, the commission approved the lighting off of fireworks from July 2 to 4.

Both resolutions also clarify the penalty for violating the ban.

Ellis County Attorney Tom Drees had expressed concern with the previous versions and said that it could be difficult to prosecute violators.

If convicted of either violation, offenders can be charged with a misdemeanor and could face a fine of up to $500.