To: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
From: ELIZABETH HAUSE, COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR
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DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING THE CITY'S 2025 FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS DISPLAY
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As part of the Midyear Budget review process, the City Council considered options for a Fourth of July fireworks display. The Council voted to tentatively proceed with a display, pending further research into landside location options and final costs.
Following the February 18 Council discussion, staff met with the fireworks vendor to evaluate potential alternative launch sites. Unfortunately, due to buffer zone and fire safety requirements, and high school scheduling conflicts, no viable landside launch options are currently available for the 2025 fireworks display.
As such, a barge-launched fireworks display remains the only option, as it ensures there are no buildings or active businesses within the fallout zone and allows the Seaside Lagoon to remain open for residents and visitors to safely enjoy the show. However, as has been noted, barge-related costs have increased significantly, and the original barge estimate for this year's show is cost prohibitive. To offset the increased barge cost, staff engaged waterfront businesses and hotel operators, who benefit from the show, and requested donations for the 2025 event. Staff is happy to report that several organizations expressed a willingness to contribute to this year's show and that preliminarily the City has received pledges totaling approximately $50,000.
The original cost estimate for the 2025 fireworks display-including fireworks, barge rental, moorings, and NPDES permitting-was $200,000. With pledged contributions from the business community, the City's share of the cost would be $150,000. It should be noted, that staff continue to pursue alternative barge providers and are hoping to secure a barge for the 2025 show at a reduced cost. Initial discussions with one vendor, in particu...
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