The city says efforts to save the show had been complicated by insurance and contractual issues.
AUBURN, Calif. — Auburn’s Fourth of July fireworks show is officially back on after the Auburn City Council voted 4-1 to keep the event alive this year. The decision comes after the Auburn Chamber of Commerce, which has traditionally organized the event, stepped away due to staffing challenges.
The City Council stepped in to sponsor and manage the annual fireworks display, which will take place at the Gold Country Fairgrounds. Although the Chamber of Commerce will continue to host the town’s annual parade and downtown activities, the fireworks show faced uncertainty until local business owners and the Downtown Business Association took action.
The city says efforts to save the show had been complicated by insurance and contractual issues, threatening the event’s future. Despite these obstacles, some City Councilmembers were determined to preserve the beloved tradition, however others raised concerns about potential economic risks.
Councilmember Rachel Radell-Harris emphasized the cultural significance of the fireworks show, recalling its importance for the community.
“This is one of those events that people think of when they think of Auburn. I remember going to it when I was a small child. It is an important part of the culture of our community,” she said.
Mayor Sandra Amara also expressed her personal desire to see the event continue but acknowledged the city’s financial constraints.
“From a personal perspective, I would love to have the fireworks. We have a budget crisis, and this has come on us very quickly,” she said.
The fireworks show, which will cost around $21,000, not including staff time, had been at risk due to insurance issues and fundraising challenges. The city says its risk pool has flagged potential insurance risks, but the Council’s decision allows the event to proceed with the city’s financial backing.
The city has already pledged $9,000 toward the cost of the fireworks, but further support may be needed if fundraising falls short.
