The fireworks display, proposed to occur at Oroal Park, has garnered substantial community interest. In past events, fireworks were launched over the lake from a site near the riverbed, with barriers like snow fencing used to maintain a safe perimeter. The display duration is expected to be 20 to 30 minutes, contingent on funding. The committee considered waiving the $50 to $100 gathering permit fee to enhance community turnout, emphasizing the event as a community initiative rather than a commercial venture. Discussions touched on the noise ordinance, traditionally enforcing restrictions beginning at 10 p.m., with suggestions for temporary amendments due to the event’s nature.

Kelly Parker, the technician for the fireworks, is expected to provide the necessary insurance policy. The committee plans to secure all required permits before financial commitments. The committee’s focus on community engagement extends beyond the fireworks event, with ongoing collaborations with the Age-Friendly Oronoco group for park audits. These audits aim to assess parks for age-friendliness, focusing on inclusivity across age groups, particularly for older adults. Grant funds will cover audit-related costs, but not capital improvements or equipment upgrades.

The committee is working with a $900 per audit budget and seeks to manage public expectations regarding immediate implementations. Discussions with the city’s Parks Department and the Age-Friendly group are ongoing, with plans to prioritize parks for evaluation. The committee emphasized the importance of community input in shaping park features, fostering multigenerational spaces that meet diverse needs. Oronoco Park was identified as a strong candidate for audit consideration due to its accessibility.

In addition to the July 4th event and park audits, the committee addressed other topics. The Drifter Car Club sought permission to use Oronoco Park for its annual driving show on October 5, benefiting local nonprofits. The committee agreed to waive the $50 shelter fee, retaining a refundable $100 damage deposit. Another discussion focused on controlled burns near public parks, raising concerns about proximity to residential areas. The committee considered alternative locations and sought input from local fire authorities to ensure safety.

The meeting also covered updates on the Zumbro River Regional Water Trail, with $165,000 allocated for research. Discussions continued on the need for additional committee members and community engagement initiatives, such as volunteer workdays for park maintenance. The committee aims to streamline efforts by prioritizing projects for upcoming budget cycles, addressing maintenance issues, and collaborating with organizations like the Lions Club for potential projects, such as transforming a park into a Veterans Memorial Park.