Vendor offers replacement show after Rangeley July 3 fireworks malfunction; board authorizes staff to negotiate contract

Town volunteers and staff told the Select Board that the July 3 fireworks display experienced a firing malfunction caused when electronic firing wires were pulled and some shells did not fire. A volunteer and organizer told the board the vendor, Central Maine Pyrotechnics, acknowledged the failure, traced the cause to manufacturer fusing problems on three shells, and offered a replacement show.

According to a presentation by Chris (community organizer), the vendor agreed to perform a full repeat show next year (July 3), retain the town’s $20,000 deposit toward the replacement and deliver the remainder of the previously-agreed program when the repeat performance is completed. "He has agreed to a new contract for July 3rd next year ... keep retaining still the 20,000 that we have sent, and then we will then pay the 53,000 upon the completion of it," Chris said.

Why it matters: Residents and businesses praised emergency responders and organizers for ensuring public safety. The vendor’s offer means the town and sponsors are unlikely to incur additional net costs, pending final contract language and completion verification.

Key details and board action: Staff said the vendor will set up barges and ‘‘manually fire’’ shells next year and that the vendor’s owner will be on-site for the repeat show. The board moved, seconded and unanimously approved a motion to authorize the town manager to work with the Sargent Family (community fund) and organizers to draft a public statement and negotiate the replacement contract.

Next steps: Town staff will draft a public communication explaining the vendor’s proposed remedy and will bring a replacement contract back to the board for final approval.