MARYSVILLE — The year after a fireworks ban took effect here, city leaders are starting to plan a Fourth of July celebration.
It could include a fireworks show, but that would be the priciest of the options.
There’s also talk of a live concert, a picnic or barbecue, or a patriotic ceremony and military presentation.
A survey is online now for people to share their thoughts on Fourth of July festivities. It will remain open for several weeks. The results are to be shared with a Fourth of July Event Committee in March. The committee is tasked with submitting a recommendation to the City Council this spring, according to a news release.
The survey asks people about different types of events and whether they would support paying for them with tax dollars.
A professional fireworks show would cost at least $25,000, according to the city. The bill for fireworks alone can add up to tens of thousands of dollars, and there are additional costs in staff time, security, insurance and equipment.
An evening concert without fireworks would cost between $10,000 and $20,000, based on the city’s estimates. A picnic or a patriotic ceremony would be expected to cost $10,000 or less.
The survey asks whether people would support an event July 3 or the nearest weekend to the holiday. It also has a question about what people did last year, the first year fireworks were illegal in Marysville.
The City Council passed the fireworks ban in 2016, and it took effect in 2017. This year, there is a fine of up to $257 for setting off consumer-grade fireworks. That’s higher than the first-year fine of $103, and it’s set to increase to $513 next year. Setting off commercial or dangerous fireworks is a misdemeanor.
In a 2015 advisory vote, with more than 10,000 ballots cast, nearly 60 percent of Marysville voters supported banning fireworks.
Several nearby cities host annual Fourth festivities, including parades, picnics and ice cream socials. Everett and Arlington, on either end of Marysville, plan fireworks displays.
Kari Bray: 425-339-3439; kbray@heraldnet.com.
What do you want for July 4?
Take Marysville’s survey online: www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZY7QJFT
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