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STAFF REPORT <br />DATE: August 6, 2025 <br />REGULAR <br /> <br /> <br />TO: Mayor and Councilmembers <br />FROM: Nicole Miller, City Administrator and Dustin Kalis, Fire Chief <br />ITEM: 100th Year Anniversary Fireworks / Drone Display <br /> <br /> <br />CORE STRATEGIES: <br /> ☒ Vibrant, inclusive, connected community ☐ Efficient, reliable, innovative services ☐ Responsive, transparent, adaptive governance ☐ Balanced Finances now and future ☐ Managed Growth <br /> <br />BACKGROUND: <br />City staff was asked review options for a fireworks display as part of the 100th year anniversary <br />celebration. Staff has also included information on a drone show an alternative to fireworks. Staff <br />contacted vendors that are used by neighboring cities for firework display (Woodbury, Stillwater, <br />Oakdale, Hudson) and drone show (Cottage Grove) proposals. <br /> <br />The City Attorney has confirmed that city can expend funds on a fireworks or drone show. <br /> <br />ISSUE BEFORE COUNCIL: <br />What is the preferred display preference of Council? <br /> <br />PROPOSAL DETAILS/ANALYSIS: <br />Fire Department staff have evaluated both types of displays: <br /> <br />Firework Display <br />The Minnesota State Fire Code will dictate the majority of what can and cannot be done regarding <br />fireworks. <br />• Launch site and required spectator distances is based on the size of fireworks being used <br />(70 feet/inch/shell <br />• Sectator distances from the launch site may need to be adjusted day of based on wind <br />speed. <br />• Licensed contractors for the display, including city issued permits. <br />• A standby fire crew is required for the event. <br />• Several required site inspections before and after the show. <br />• Road closures and crowd managers (in case of a launch malfunction or fallout). <br />• If winds exceed 15 mph, the show would be postponed. <br />