Fourth of July celebrations in Longmont have brought mixed discussions for many years. The main topic of conversation is the use of illegal fireworks. The city proposed addressing this issue by creating a party for Longmont residents to attend, hoping to curb some illegal use of fireworks. The issue was part of the Longmont City Council agenda on Tuesday but was tabled as city staff explore the possibility of the fireworks show taking place at the Vance Brand Municipal Airport.
The debate on the topic is where to host the fireworks show. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the show was held at the Boulder County Fairgrounds. During the pandemic, the fairgrounds decided not to permit large gatherings which forced the Longmont Kiwanis Club to move the celebration to the Fox Hill Club.
The relocation of the show caused other problems in the neighborhoods surrounding the club. The city has begun exploring other locations for the show which include the Fire Training Center and the Vance Brand Municipal Airport.
According to City Manager Harold Dominguez, there are a number of nuances the city staff still need to understand before they can know if the airport is an option.
If the show were to move to the Fire Training Center, the event could be coupled with events held in Downtown Longmont. Councilmember Sean McCoy supported the idea that the event bring more business to the downtown area referencing the many other successful events that have been hosted in the area.
Councilmember Diane Crist suggested moving any celebration to another part of town to spread the economic support to other businesses.
Mayor Joan Peck moved to table the issue as she and other council members wanted to hear more from the airport and the FAA before making a decision.
A date is not set yet when the issue will come before council again. Dominguez said he had a meeting scheduled with the FAA this week and should have more information soon.
