Quincy approves event fireworks funding

QUINCY - Several city councilmembers voiced concerns about the Farmer Consumer Awareness Day fireworks display's location.

The concerns arose after the committee requested $5,000 in tourism funds to pay for the Sept. 10 event. The fireworks are planned for Twin Firs Turf, located on Road L.5 Northwest, about seven miles from the center of the city.

Committee member Sonia Pedron said the money pays for the fireworks display.

"If you haven't seen them, I encourage you to come out and check it out. It's really cool," she said. "Quincy has even had a couple of pyrotechs go through training, so it kind of brings it close to home."

Councilmember Jose Saldana asked why the committee doesn't hold the event closer to the city, suggesting Lauzier Park. He pointed out everyone would be able to see it if they brought it closer.

"Everyone is invited," Pedron responded. "The Twin Firs sod farm, as we all know, is a huge open (area of) green grass. There are no overhead power lines. We don't have to worry about any kids or being in a residential area."

Kent Bacon, the farm's owner and a committee member, offered the location to them, Pedron said, adding it is free to the public.

"I don't like (the event) to be that far from town," Saldana said.

Councilmember Scott Lybbert said he struggled with having the location be so far outside of the city, but he didn't see any alternative.

"Lauzier (Park) is maybe too small of a location, compared to the large irrigated area that is out there," he said. "I guess we have to have some advice from our fire department, and I don't think this is the proper time."

City Administrator Tim Snead pointed out the fireworks are tied into the hot air balloon festival being held at the same location, which draws people to the area.

Saldana said the balloon festival is not a draw for everyone.

"The first year (the fireworks) were done, it was done at Lauzier Park," he said. "I mean you are drawing a certain kind of people, but not everybody ... You want to spend money from the city, I would like it to be for the citizens also."

Councilmember Travis Wittman suggested using the city's bus to take people to the event.

"I was there this last year. It was an excellent event. I'm in full support of it this year," he said.

 Councilmember Jeremy McCreary approved of spending money on the event and supported using the city's bus.

"I think it's money well spent," he said. "The bus would be a temporary solution. Trying to relocate the fireworks to town may be a better idea, if the city is going to spend money, but I think it's money well spent out there. I've seen it. It's pretty cool."