A fireworks convention with an estimated $2 million-to-$3 million dollar economic impact is probably backing out of a return to Newton. Newton hosted the Pyrotechnic Guild International Fireworks Convention last year, and was scheduled to host the 2025 convention August 9-16. But Newton City Councilman Randy Ervin, chair of the PGI Newton Committee, says at this time it looks like PGI may be taking their convention to another city in Iowa. Ervin, in a written statement to Newton City Council members, says the city was unable to secure the convention due to the indecisive response from the landowner where the nightly fireworks were to be discharged. The city councilman added there is still a small chance the convention could come to Newton, but it’s not likely. Ervin thanked City staff for all the work put into preparing for the convention. Many residents in northwest Newton were upset with how close the fireworks were going to be to their homes and apartments, and a recent city council decision to allow city parks on the northwest side of Newton to be used for parking and camping. The convention’s economic impact was based on 1,700 visitors using 800 hotel rooms and 350 campsites, eating and shopping at local restaurants and stores. The PGI Convention Board was in Newton this past weekend to look at the proposed sites.