Select Board approves $12,500 fireworks contract for 250th celebration, votes 3-1 amid cost concerns

The Hollis Select Board voted to approve a fireworks contract for the town's 250th celebration and separately authorized the celebration committee's chair to sign contracts on behalf of the event.

Select Board member (S4) moved to approve the final fireworks contract with Pyrotechnico Fireworks Incorporated; Acting Chair (S1) seconded. During discussion, Select Board member (S5) questioned the expense, saying the quoted cost of "12 and a half thousand dollars" for a roughly 20-minute display equates to about "$650 a minute." S5 said, "That's a lot of money," while acknowledging support for a community celebration.

Will (S2) and other members raised concerns for residents with dogs and pets that can be frightened by fireworks. The board discussed using the police department's alert system and electronic signage to warn residents in advance. Board members noted the committee already had paid a deposit in December and that backing out could mean losing the deposit.

The fireworks contract passed by voice vote, 3-1. The board then moved to designate Lillian Garuba as the signatory authority for the Hollis Celebrates America 250th Committee; that motion passed 4-0. Acting Chair clarified the signatory authority applies to matters that pertain to the 250th celebration and that any expenditures beyond the committee's budget will be brought back to the Select Board.

Next steps: the committee will handle event logistics and public notifications; staff suggested using the town's alert system to give advance notice to residents and pet owners.