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Civic Celebration Commission report prompts debate over drone show, fireworks and parade safety
Summary
The Civic Celebration Commission presented its annual report, drawing debate from council members and volunteers over a recent drone show, whether to restore fireworks for 2026’s semiquincentennial, parade safety concerns (candy toss and children near vehicles) and budget transparency for the drone event.
Robert Brunow, chair of the Civic Celebration Commission, presented the commission’s annual report to the Wauwatosa Transportation Affairs Committee and answered questions about recent events, fundraising and public feedback.
Brunow said the commission followed the mayor and administrator’s recommendation in holding a drone show this year and acknowledged “countless emails” expressing displeasure about the 14-minute drone program. Several council members and commissioners urged a return to fireworks for July 4, 2026 — the nation’s 250th anniversary — saying the community expects traditional fireworks and that fireworks support local tradition and attendance. Brunow said the commission is short on time to decide, is meeting this Thursday, and must raise funds and secure contracts quickly if fireworks are to be scheduled.
Committee members also raised safety concerns about the parade. Multiple members and volunteers reported children leaving sidewalks to collect thrown candy and coming close to parade vehicles. Commissioners said they have asked candy distributors to hand out candy closer to the curb and discussed possible measures ranging from volunteer enforcement to limiting candy distribution; no formal policy change was decided at the committee meeting. Chief McGillis commented that traffic and crowd control ultimately require parental supervision and that officers can ask parents to move children away from the street.
On budget transparency for the drone show, council members questioned whether the commission had documentation for the event’s costs. Brunow said the commission was authorized to use up to $30,000 and that the commission spent approximately $30,000; councilors asked for documented receipts and journal entries. Brunow said the commission has a treasurer and budget and that those records should exist.
The commission reported around 135 people attended its Memorial Day event and said the parade had about 89 units. Commissioners discussed focusing on the 2026 celebration and improving musical/marching band participation. The committee did not adopt any binding direction on fireworks versus drones at the meeting; the commission is scheduled to meet again imminently and will continue fundraising and discussion.
