Politics & Government

Can You Spare a Few Bucks for Some Fireworks?

With budgets strained, the city has set up a donation page on its website where residents can contribute toward Monrovia's Independence Day celebration.

Times are tough, and fireworks aren't free.

For the first time, the city is reaching out to residents to help fund its annual fireworks show. A Paypal donation button has been added to the city's website, where donors are invited to contribute any amount.

"Support your annual Fourth of July festivities and Fireworks Show with a donation of any amount," the site reads. "The Monrovia Department of Community Services appreciates your contribution to this event."

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In March, the City Council approved a $20,500 contract with Pyro Spectaculars--the same company that produces the famous Rose Bowl show--to put on Monrovia's Independence Day fireworks display, according to a council agenda report. The company has contracted with Monrovia since 2010.

Kerry Zessau, a recreation supervisor for the city, said the goal is to pay for the city's fireworks show entirely through donations. The total cost of the event is expected to be $43,000, and the city has already raised about $33,300, Zessau said.

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Instead of relying entirely on sponsorships--like a $5,000 donation from Mayor Mary Ann Lutz and her husband--the Community Services Department wanted to expand the fundraising to the general public.

"We also wanted to give the community an opportunity to sponsor in any amount," she said. "We want to bring out the masses. We do need the community's help."

If the city can't raise the remaining funds, the balance will be paid with money from the Community Services budget, Zessau said.

Monrovia first began hosting a fireworks show in 2002 on Myrtle Avenue, where it was held until 2008. Because of construction in Old Town, the city put on a concert in 2009 in lieu of the fireworks show, bringing it back again to in 2010.

4th of July Event information:

  • Concert featuring "Person to Person," 7:00 p.m. (top 40’s cover band that will play some patriotic music)
  • Fireworks Show 9:00 p.m. in Library Park


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