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Henry County park leaders scramble to secure funding, logistics for Fourth of July fireworks
Summary
Park board members and staff discussed a shortfall in fundraising and multiple logistical issues — including vendor payments, donations, parking, traffic control and event programming — as they prepare for the July 4 fireworks show.
Henry County Parks Board members and staff discussed a shortfall in fundraising and multiple logistical issues for the July 4 fireworks show during a work session, and laid out steps to solicit donations, confirm vendors and firm up traffic and safety plans.
Board members said they have collected some donations but remain short of the typical $30,000-plus cost. Park staff said Citizens State Bank and other donors have committed or been asked; Henry County Hospital’s Foundation will consider a request at its June 17 meeting. Park staff also reported an ACH/check from Citizens Bank was in process and that the county treasurer’s office was verifying the submission.
The discussion centered on whether the park should commit to a $30,000 show without secured funds, how quickly Webb’s (the fireworks vendor) needs a deposit to place orders, and a fundraising strategy focused on both major donors (banks, hospital) and smaller, local businesses. Park volunteers said they are tracking outreach to potential sponsors and will share a consolidated contact list so solicitations are not duplicated.
On operations and logistics, staff and board members discussed site layout for vendors and food trucks, staging and timing for musical performances, generator and electrical needs, parking and traffic-flow control, volunteer/traffic-worker assignments, and emergency services coverage. Carl with Sound Investments (audio contractor) said he would prefer an earlier music window (for example, mid-afternoon) rather than 6–8 p.m., citing late arrivals and setup needs. Staff agreed to coordinate with the House of Prayer and other performers on timing.
Board members and staff reviewed options for parking revenue versus voluntary donations at gates. Some said charging for parking previously raised two to three thousand dollars, but others warned charging could push attendees to park offsite. The board asked staff to continue using voluntary donations at gates while studying the pros and cons of paid parking for future events.
Staff said they will reach back to Webb’s to confirm the vendor’s deposit requirements and timing, continue solicitations (including following up with McGowan, New Castle Stainless and other prior sponsors), and post sponsorship commitments publicly to encourage others to join. They also plan to produce advertising and recognition materials for sponsors and to publish sponsor lists on the park’s Facebook page once commitments are received.
Less-critical logistics — vendor placement, food-truck layout (food court vs. single line), golf-cart parking, and coordination with the saddle club and other weekend events — will be refined at a June work session. Staff said they will also consult county emergency management and the sheriff’s office about traffic control and on-site EMS coverage.
Board members emphasized they would prefer to avoid overspending and suggested a contingency for a smaller show this year if fundraising falls short; any such scale-back would preserve funds for a larger centennial celebration next year.
Park staff will return to the board with an updated budget status, a list of committed sponsors and a draft event layout ahead of the next regular meeting.
