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Council leans toward hybrid drone‑and‑fireworks show in Old Town; budget shortfall remains
Summary
After a workshop discussion, councilmembers signaled consensus for a hybrid event in Old Town — drones with a short low‑level fireworks finale — but staff said current budget covers only part of the cost and outlined three site options and costs.
During a workshop session, Lewisville officials signaled consensus to hold this year’s Red, White & Lewisville celebration in Old Town with a hybrid drone show followed by a short low‑level fireworks finale, subject to securing roughly $28,000 in additional funds for the fuller hybrid package.
Darren Watkins, special events manager, presented three locations — Old Town, Railroad Park and the Vista (formerly Music City Mall) — and the pros and cons of each, including viewing capacity, infrastructure needs and safety zones.
“Old Town brings customers into the businesses down there,” Watkins said. He described Old Town’s usual audience at 4,000–6,000 people and noted the logistical advantages of the existing operational plan. The city’s current event budget is $31,000; staff estimated a hybrid show in Old Town would cost about $59,000, leaving a $28,000 shortfall. A drones‑only show would cost less and reduce cleanup and fire risk.
Councilmembers discussed safety concerns, debris and wind tolerance. Watkins noted drones generally tolerate winds up to about 20 mph, versus 10–12 mph recommended for low‑level fireworks; in recent years the city almost canceled shows because of wind. Councilmember comments favored the hybrid in Old Town as a compromise that maintains entertainment value while mitigating some safety and cleanup issues.
Councilmember discussion produced a stated consensus for a hybrid Old Town event, with options to scale down (drones only, or fewer fireworks) to fit the budget. Council did not take a formal vote allocating the additional funds during the workshop; staff said they will return with budget options and staffing plans.
What’s next: Staff will prepare a financing plan to close the identified funding gap, provide logistics and public‑safety plans, and return to the council for any required budget action. No formal appropriation was made during the session.
