Officials Seek Community Help in Bringing Back Fireworks Display

For the first time in 28 years, Livermore residents couldn't head to for a festive fireworks display on the Fourth of July.

The fireworks show for 2011 was canceled last year by the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District after the city said it couldn't find the money to fund its $50,000 contribution toward the event.

"It was too expensive to keep it going in the midst of laying people off and cutting other essential programs," John Lawrence, LARPD assistant general manager, said.

The city's financial responsibility is associated primarily with labor fees for police officers and firefighters plus preparation for the event by public works staff, he said.

Lawrence said LARPD pays for the fireworks, which cost about $20,000. The costs of securing live performances and other entertainment before the fireworks show, staffing and use of the park for such a large celebration are partly made up for by parking fees and sales of items to attendees.

The holiday tradition now costs the two organizations $75,000 to $80,000 each year.

The decision to do without fireworks angered many residents, who said keeping the display should have been a priority. Lawrence said LARPD has received several heated emails in the past few weeks.

A fireworks show for next summer is not in the budget, but Lawrence said he hopes the district can contract with the city on a joint fundraising effort that would need to be organized sooner rather than later.

"It's been a really special activity for the community," he said, and one that historically has attracted 10,000 people to the park for the Fourth of July.

Lawrence said LARPD has gotten some interest from folks and community groups that wish to help, but more people need to get involved. Those who wish to help or want more information should contact the parks district at 925-373-5700 or info@larpd.dst.ca.us.