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Commission approves one-time $50,000 contribution for Bismarcks 250th July 4 celebration

Board of City Commissioners · January 13, 2026

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Summary

City administrators and event organizers asked the commission for a one-time $50,000 increase (in addition to the citys usual $15,000 fireworks support) to expand traffic control, entertainment and family programming for the 250th anniversary event at the MDU Resources Community Bowl; the commission approved the request by roll call.

City Administrator Jason Timonic and event lead John Bollinger asked the Board of City Commissioners on Jan. 13 for a one-time additional city contribution of $50,000 to expand the July 4, 2026, 250th-anniversary celebration at the MDU Resources Community Bowl.

Jason said the city historically contributes $15,000 for fireworks and that this one-time $50,000 would be additional to that amount. John Bollinger, who identified himself as owner of FedEx Events and representing the Fanatics group engaged to help produce the celebration, said last year's move to the bowl drew "well over 8,000 people" and described plans for added traffic control, crowd management and family programming.

Commissioners expressed general support for the event and moved to approve the one-time additional $50,000. The motion passed by roll call; commissioners clarified the add-on is not a recurring commitment.

The event organizers said they will continue fundraising and sponsorship efforts to cover programming and vendor commitments and will return to the commission if budget changes are needed.