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Weslaco approves drone show extension with fireworks finale for 250th Independence anniversary
Summary
The commission extended a drone‑show contract at last year’s price and authorized adding a fireworks finale capped at $17,500 for the 250th Independence anniversary celebration, after debate over cost, safety and visibility last year; staff noted FAA and safety constraints and will pursue sponsors where possible.
The Weslaco City Commission on Nov. 4 authorized staff to extend the contract with Skywonder Pyrotechnics to provide the July 3 or 4, 2026 drone show and approved adding a fireworks finale with a staff‑recommended pyro cap of $17,500 for approximately a five‑minute finale.
Staff said the base one‑year contract extension holds the prior year’s price of $50,000. The vendor estimated pyro pricing of about $3,500 per minute during negotiations and staff proposed a five‑minute finale; commissioners discussed alternate approaches — including alternating years between drone‑only and full fireworks shows — and asked staff to pursue sponsorships to offset costs.
Commissioners and staff recalled visibility and placement issues during last year’s drone show and emphasized FAA and safety requirements, including coordination to ensure nearby buildings are unoccupied during fly zones. Public safety staff reviewed flight and pyro safety constraints and confirmed the city can secure the required clearances.
The motion to renew the drone show contract and include a fireworks finale (up to $17,500) passed by voice vote. Staff will finalize negotiations, pursue sponsorships and coordinate safety and logistics with public‑safety partners before confirming the date and format.
