Fireworks

July 3rd has returned
Fireworks

The City Council of Waldport on May 20th took note of the recent cancellation of fireworks for July 3rd. We thank the groups that tried to make it work. 

Recognizing the importance of this event to so many residents and businesses it was decided, after years of watching continued attempts to fund and manage this process, that this was something the City could and should assist with. So, in partnership with the Waldport Chamber of Commerce, the SHOW WILL GO ON! JULY 3rd, Fireworks in Waldport!

But not just this year. Stability is one of the most important things that can be provided to the area in terms of economic development, so the City will be providing financial and logistical/contracting assistance to manage the Fireworks going forward. 

How can I help?

In the past, the show relied heavily on donations - that will still be the case. Donations can be made to the Waldport Chamber's fireworks fund, or can be dropped off at the City's drive through at City Hall - just tell the staff it's for fireworks! Or mailed to: City of Waldport, PO Box 1120, Waldport, OR 97394. We'll be posting updates on how fundraising goes throughout the year, and what level of show we can afford. The better the donations, the more in future years we can explore some alternatives or additions to the standard show. Historically, donations were always a struggle - the City hopes to provide stability in knowing that if you donate, the show will go on (pending pouring rain of course). 

What does that mean going forward?

It means that in future years:

  • An honest conversation can be had about how to reduce the impact on wildlife, pets and others...
  • Stability can be provided for planning around the event, and criteria can be posted in regard to weather...
  • The process will be open and transparent with costs and fundraising results readily available

What about the fire danger?

This is a real concern - not primarily as much with the large show, but with the thousands who gather and light off their own fireworks. We are seeing signs that this year will represent the largest drought in the west in over a decade. In June, the Council will discuss with the Chief of the Fire District some best practices around private fireworks in the city limits - including the possibility of a ban on private displays if fire season has closed. This will not be an easy discussion, but if we are closed to burning due to the fire danger, we must accept that a celebration of freedom should not potentially involve burning down the town or portions thereof. 

It's a waste of money! And NOT the city's job!

That is a fair argument. However, Oregon law requires that a percentage of funds acquired from transient rental tax are spent on tourism promotion. So we do have the funds set aside for this purpose. While the costs vs benefits were weighed, especially after a year of COVID closures for many businesses, the Council felt that overall the benefits outweighed the cost concerns, especially given the interest of community members to further donate to ensure the show goes on. 

We need transparency and partnerships!

Finally, Waldport is committed to be open and transparent about this entire process. The budget and the contract will be posted publicly on our website so that people can judge and speak to their Council about the cost of the show, or how they may feel this commitment benefits their business, their summer, and their community, as well as concerns they may have.

We'll also be reaching out to some of our community partners to explore how other events can be coordinated to create a memorable celebration around this holiday time period.