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Cody Fireworks Committee asks Park County for $7,500–$10,000 as commissioners weigh budget strain
Summary
Quinton Blair asked Park County commissioners for $7,500 (ideally $10,000) toward the 2026 Cody Fourth of July fireworks; commissioners praised the event’s community value but flagged budget limits and the risk of opening the door to other funding requests, and deferred a final decision pending budget review.
Quinton Blair, appearing for the Cody Fireworks Committee, asked Park County commissioners to consider a direct contribution to the 2026 fireworks display, seeking $7,500 and saying $10,000 would be “over the moon.” Blair told the board the professional show is estimated to cost between $50,000 and $60,000 and described the event as a longstanding, free community celebration that also draws visitors and supports local businesses.
The request prompted detailed questions from multiple commissioners about fairness and budget tradeoffs. Commissioner Mangled said she was sympathetic but voiced concern about taxpayer dollars being used for a short, 20‑minute program while county budget pressures exist, including employee pay and other service needs. “I’m certainly not in favor of using taxpayer dollars to blow up the sky when we have issues,” she said, citing recent budget conversations.
Other commissioners emphasized the unique scale of the Cody show — which coincides with the Cody Stampede and draws larger crowds than neighboring towns’ displays — and said the county’s support could prompt other requests from towns and nonprofit groups. Commissioner Thiel and Commissioner Simone both said they want to avoid establishing a recurring county subsidy without clear funding sources. Blair told the board he has sought grants and partner contributions from the Park County Travel Council, the Cody Chamber, Shoshoni Recreation District and the Park County Parks and Recreation Board, and that the committee is expanding sponsorship and grassroots fundraising.
Rather than vote immediately, commissioners asked staff to look at potential budget lines and grants and to revisit the request after additional budget review. The board did not approve an appropriation at the meeting; commissioners said they are open to supporting the 250th‑anniversary celebration in a way that minimizes county general‑fund impacts.
What’s next: Commissioners asked Blair to continue fundraising and to provide any updated budget or partner commitments. The request will be revisited as part of upcoming budget discussions.
Quotes “I'm respectfully asking your support for the 2026 Park County Fourth of July fireworks display,” Quinton Blair said, noting the committee’s plan to expand sponsorships and community fundraising. “I’m certainly not in favor of using taxpayer dollars to blow up the sky when we have issues,” Commissioner Mangled said during debate.
Context and limits: Commissioners emphasized that any county contribution must be weighed against other priorities and that staff should identify specific budget sources before a final decision is made. The board did not commit county funds at the meeting.
