Temecula's July 4 Fireworks Show Will Go On, Despite Coronavirus

TEMECULA, CA — In a 3-2 vote Wednesday, Temecula City Council decided to push on with a July 4 fireworks show amid coronavirus challenges — provided the county and/or state do not ban the display.

Council members Matt Rahn and Zak Schwank cast the dissenting votes.

Council members debated options put forth by staff that included canceling the traditional event and instead putting on a virtual summer shindig. Online festivities like music and fireworks, along with virtual participation by residents — selfies, recipes, contests, etc. — would replace in-person celebration.

Council member Mike Naggar mocked the idea, saying he couldn't imagine people gathering around a screen on July 4.

"It's thoroughly ridiculous," he said.

Invoking "The Star-Spangled Banner," Naggar said it is symbolic that Temecula proceed with the annual patriotic event amid COVID-19 obstacles.

Mayor Pro Tem Maryann Edwards agreed. "Watching fireworks on TV is like watching bowling," she said. Pressing on with the fireworks display "sends a message of hope."

Council member Matt Rahn questioned the wisdom of shelling out funds on a fireworks show amid fiscal uncertainty and other unknowns caused by COVID-19.

The cost of the fireworks is $40,000, which doesn't include ancillary expenses such as security, a radio station broadcast to coincide with the fireworks display and other costs, according to Dawn Adamiak, Temecula Community Services Department. She estimated the show's total tally would reach somewhere around $80,000.

"The cost of hope cannot be counted," Naggar countered. "We're not cancelling the Fourth of July. The fireworks have to go on."

The city plans to make Ronald Reagan Sports Park available for July 4 revelers, unless the county or state issues orders restricting the opening.

Naggar maintained that Temecula residents can social distance, if that is still called for by July 4.

According to council members, Temecula is the only Southwest Riverside County city to move forward on a July 4 display.

In its motion to OK the fireworks display, council members instructed staff to ensure contracts with vendors allow flexibility in case the state and/or county prohibits the event. If the county and/or state objects because of social gathering, council members instructed that Ronald Reagan Sports Park could be cordoned off, if necessary.

Unlike years' past, the city will not hold a July 4 parade.