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Council debates shifting fireworks responsibility to Fund Days committee; asks staff to consult committee
Summary
Councilors discussed ending the city’s multi-year agreement with J&M Displays and instead donating a set sponsorship amount to the Fund Days committee so the committee would manage and insure fireworks; council raised questions about insurance, permits and volunteer capacity and asked staff to consult Fund Days before making a decision.
Councilors on Aug. 12 discussed whether the city should terminate its multi-year contract with J&M Displays for Fund Days fireworks and instead donate a sponsor payment to the Fund Days committee so the committee would procure and manage the display.
One councilor said it would reduce staff workload: "it is in the city's best interest to become a sponsor of Fund Days and to just cut a check to Fund Days and let the Fund Days committee run everything," and argued that city staff currently spend considerable time coordinating fireworks logistics.
Speakers raised procedural and safety concerns: even if the city donates money, the committee would likely still need to secure permit exceptions for fireworks under the city ordinance and confirm insurance coverage. Councilors noted the committee already struggles to recruit volunteers for other events and worried shifting full responsibility could jeopardize the display if the committee lacks capacity.
Councilors also praised J&M Displays as a contractor and acknowledged the contract expires next year, giving the city time to consult Fund Days and consider bids. The council directed staff to invite representatives of the Fund Days committee to discuss options and the insurance implications before taking final action.
