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Woonsocket council discusses drone/laser alternatives to fireworks and approves three resolutions
Summary
Councilors discussed replacing fireworks with drone or laser light shows, noting high costs, and unanimously approved three resolutions including a contract for electrical work at John R. Dionne track and an amendment to a RIDOT subrecipient agreement for Main Street improvements.
A council member raised the possibility of replacing fireworks with a drone or laser light show during the Woonsocket City Council meeting, and members voted unanimously to approve three separate resolutions later in the session.
The council discussed cost and procurement timing for an alternative light show. "Light show with either drones or lasers. Was that part of the submission? And were there any respondents? Was there any, information gathered on getting away from fireworks and going to a more, the, silent type of show?" a council member asked.
Liz Kerrigan, superintendent of parks, said she researched alternatives and gave councilors a price estimate. "The superintendent of parks, Liz Kerrigan, did some research on it, and, it was, you know, it was in, like, in the $40,000 range or whatever. I mean, it's double what you're gonna, you know, you know, in this fiscal climate, I mean, this is really direction you can't go," she told the council.
The council member added they would like the option included in future procurement documents. "If we can, Director, if you and I are still here next year, I'd like it to be part of the bid just so that we can start to get a handle on if there's some type of alternative that we can get into. I think it's time we look to possibly get away from the fireworks and move into, and I bet you by next year, the cost will come down, as the technology increases. So, I know it's too late for this year, but if we could keep it in the back, for next year," the council member said.
Votes at a glance
- 25 R 42 — (motion text not specified in transcript). Approved, 7-0. - 25 R 43 — Resolution authorizing the Public Works director to enter into a contract with Island Light and Empower Systems Inc. for the installation of electrical equipment in the John R. Dionne track and field parking lot. Approved, 7-0. - 25 R 44 — Resolution authorizing the City of Woonsocket to enter into Amendment 2 of the subrecipient agreement with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation for the Main Street Improvements Project. Motion made by Councilwoman Fox, seconded by Councilwoman Sierra. Approved, 7-0.
Council business concluded with a motion to adjourn; the meeting ended at 10:05 p.m., according to the transcript.
