Westborough committee opts for 15-minute fireworks, seeks donations to extend show

At a meeting of the Town of Westborough committee planning the 250th American Revolution celebration, members reviewed vendor quotes and departmental cost estimates and agreed to pursue a 15-minute fireworks display that fits the committees current budget while continuing targeted fundraising to extend the show.

The committee heard a breakdown of expected additional public-safety and operations costs from Amanda, who said the towns detail and department estimates total about $11,850 (fire $1,698.72; police $4,500; public works $1,980). Amanda also reported a high-end estimate for 25 portable toilets at $3,675 (the transcript contained a numeric typo that was clarified during the meeting).

Why it matters: fireworks and safety details are the single largest variable for the celebrations budget. Vendor pricing and fixed staffing costs together determine whether the committee can afford a longer display or must limit the event to a shorter program.

Committee members reviewed two vendor proposals gathered by Christie: American Thunder offered $26,000 for a 20-to-25-minute display and $19,000 for a 15-minute show; a second vendor quoted $30,000. Members noted procurement rules for purchases under $50,000 require soliciting multiple quotes; the committee received two written quotes and considered the lowest responsive bid.

Several members said the current estimates leave the committee short roughly $6,000 to $7,000 for the longer show if no additional donations arrive. "With the money that we have today we are excited to commit to a 15minute show with additional generous donations we anticipate being able to do a longer show," one member said, summarizing the groups preferred approach.

The committee discussed whether vendors require deposits and the deadline for signing contracts to hold a date. Amanda and Kim said American Thunders written proposal indicated a 50 percent deposit requirement; the group agreed to confirm the vendors flexibility on upgrading a contracted 15-minute show later if extra funds are raised.

Members also asked that the fundraising letter specify which line items donations would support (police, fire, DPW, fireworks) so prospective donors know how their contributions will be used. The committee discussed recognition tiers and mechanisms for sponsors, including social-media shout-outs, a press release, on-site banners and a limited number of complimentary tables at the block party (the recreation departments Jen Kirkland described the departments existing sponsor thresholds and typical recognition practices).

Next steps: Amanda and Kim will confirm vendor contract terms and deposit/deadline requirements and return the information to the committee at its next meeting on Monday. In the interim, the group will finalize a fundraising letter that itemizes costs and sponsorship recognition plans.

The meeting concluded after approving the prior meeting minutes by voice vote and adjourning early.