Greenfield approves one‑year Fourth of July budget and fireworks contract amid cost concerns

At the May 27 meeting, the Greenfield City Council approved a fiscal‑year allocation to fund the city’s annual Fourth of July celebration and authorized a one‑year contract for fireworks with Pyro Spectacular Inc.

Jesus Perez, Greenfield recreation manager, told the council staff recommended shifting from a two‑year to a one‑year fireworks contract in order to maintain flexibility and explore other production options in future years. Perez said the proposed budget request for the event this year was $3,042,000 and the one‑year fireworks contract with Pyro Spectacular Inc. was for $25,500 for fiscal year 2025‑26.

A community member and former event organizer, John McLemore, provided historical context and requested the council memorialize 1998 as the year the city‑sponsored Fourth of July event began. “I fully support the contract with Pyro Spectacular,” McLemore said, and urged continuation of the tradition.

Councilmembers expressed broad support for keeping the event but several urged caution about costs and safety. One councilmember noted that spending tens of thousands on a one‑day fireworks show is a tough choice while the city faces large infrastructure needs. Another councilmember asked staff to plan for post‑show traffic and safety, and one suggested considering drone light shows as a lower‑risk alternative. Recreation staff said they are coordinating with police and public works on crowd and traffic management and plan to begin promotion soon.

After public comment, the council voted to approve the budget allocation and authorize the one‑year contract with Pyro Spectacular Inc.; the motion carried on a council voice vote with no recorded opposition.

The council did not adopt a multi‑year contract, leaving open discussion of alternatives and broader community involvement in future years.