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Tazewell council approves contracted fireworks show for July 3 after insurance and cost discussion
Summary
After a staff presentation on insurance, liability and cost, the council approved moving forward with a contracted fireworks show likely on July 3, with vendor quotes discussed in the $12,000–$14,000 range and counsel and staff noting volunteer firers would lack personal liability coverage under VRSA guidance.
Tazewell — The Town of Tazewell will contract for a fireworks show around Independence Day after council voted to proceed with a vendor quote, following a staff presentation on risks, insurance and cost.
Andrew Reed briefed the council on the town’s options and VRSA (Virginia Risk Sharing Association) guidance. Reed said the town could train volunteer firefighters but VRSA advised the town that volunteers who performed pyrotechnic work would have no personal liability coverage for injuries or damage and that the town should not accept money to perform shows. "Fireworks claims are not inexpensive claims," Reed said. "If a firefighter gets hurt, they are not covered. If they cause an accident or damage, they are not covered." He recommended using a contracted company.
Reed provided rough vendor cost guidance, noting a comparable show had previously been around $12,000 but international supply issues pushed estimates to $14,000 for the same quality. Council discussed holding the show on July 3 so crews could have July 4 off and noted operational and liability considerations.
Councilmember (speaker 3) moved to proceed with the vendor quote and set the fireworks for July 3; the motion was seconded and passed by voice vote.
Next steps: staff will finalize a contract with a vendor, confirm the date and coordinate safety, traffic and emergency‑services planning in advance of the show.
