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Select Board opts to forgo Old Home Week fireworks to preserve Fourth of July display
Summary
Facing operating shortfalls and rising event costs, the Select Board agreed by consensus to keep the town’s July 4 fireworks and not fund a separate Old Home Week fireworks display this year.
The Alton Select Board agreed by consensus on April 22 to preserve the town’s July 4 fireworks display and not to fund a separate Old Home Week fireworks show this year because of budgetary constraints.
A town staff member told the board that the July 4 display is already over budget and that the Old Home Week fireworks contractor would cost about $11,000 in addition to the roughly $19,000 committed for the July 4 show. "I think it's very important that we maintain our time slot and maintain the fourth of July celebration," the staff member said, adding that emergency-services overtime and staffing for a large fireworks night can add $4,000 to $5,000 in costs.
Board members expressed reluctance but agreed the town could not afford both events this year. Selectman Richard Shay said he agreed with the decision; another board member, Mr. Carter, called it a "tough choice" but supported the recommendation.
The board's direction was administrative consensus rather than a formal, recorded motion. Staff said they will proceed with planning for the July 4 fireworks and will notify organizers and stakeholders that Old Home Week will proceed without a fireworks component; other Old Home Week events such as the 5K, craft fair, parade and concert were discussed as likely to continue with adjustments to limit extra town-paid staff hours.
