LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - Lexington moved a step closer to grounding big fireworks. The Urban County Council passed the first reading of a proposed aerial fireworks ban. The proposal came after police and fire departments took more than 2,000 complaints around the 4th of July.

There was no discussion, no fanfare when council had their first reading on the fireworks ban Thursday night. Mayor Gray thinks that's a good sign the fireworks ban will soon pass.

"No fireworks tonight, but I think the council is looking very carefully and very thoughtfully, and I'm glad they are," explained Mayor Gray.

Council members didn't have trouble passing the first reading of the fireworks ban Thursday night. The ordinance would prohibit people from buying, and shooting off, aerial fireworks. Police tell us they responded to more than 2,000 complaints around the 4th of July holiday weekend. Lexington fire crews responded to several grass fires and structure fires within the same time period. They're hoping the ban cuts down on the calls.

"When we have issues like the fireworks issues we had to respond to, certainly it taxed our resources," explained Lexington Police Chief Ronnie Bastin.

Mayor Gray supports the ban. Council members will cast their vote for or against, September 13th.

The new ban would not affect the city's annual 4th of July fireworks show.