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County approves 600-drone light show for 250th celebration at $157,500
Summary
Do—na Ana County awarded RFP 26-0028 to Sky Elements for a three-night drone light show (June 30'July 2) with a recommended 600-drone package to increase image resolution; cost approved at $157,500 (excl. gross receipts tax).
Do—na Ana County commissioners approved the award of RFP 26-0028 to Sky Elements on March 24 for a three-night drone light show planned for the county's 250th celebration (June 30'July 2). The agreed contract amount is $157,500, excluding applicable gross receipts tax.
Assistant County Manager Steven Lopez told the commission the procurement team asked for a minimum of 400 drones in proposals, and Sky Elements proposed a 400-drone package with an option to scale to 600 drones. The selection team recommended the 600-drone option for improved image detail and public impact. "As you increase the light dots in the sky, the detail in images is just so much better," Lopez explained while showing example renderings comparing different drone counts.
The RFP was publicly posted and produced three proposals; the selection committee evaluated responsiveness, the ability to meet three requested performances, and technical quality. Commissioners discussed the procurement process and asked clarifying questions about minimum drone numbers and proposed show elements. The award passed on a recorded roll call vote with commissioners present approving the item.
The event will be staged at the fairgrounds, and staff said they would coordinate logistics, safety planning and any required airspace or local approvals with the vendor and public-safety partners ahead of the late-June performances.
