SR 05:144 - Laserfiche WebLink

Prior to July 1999, the Alameda County Fairgrounds scheduled a fireworks display on July 4th each year in conjunction with its annual County Fair. The Alameda County Fair Board sponsored the display, with the County's Sheriff and Fire departments having public safety responsibilities for the event. On July 4, 1998, a shooting incident occurred in the Fairgrounds midway. Since that time, a July 4th fireworks display has not been held on the property (although a fireworks display does now occur on the opening night of the Fair). The Fair Board also decided to annually close the Fair at 6 p.m. on July 4th, several hours earlier than on other Fair days. At its September 9, 2004 meeting, the Parks and Recreation Commission inquired about the feasibility of resuming a fireworks display at the Fairgrounds, and the Commission requested that staff research the issue and present its findings. On January 13, 2005, staff presented information regarding issues related to resuming a fireworks show at the Fairgrounds (see Attachment 1). The report included an analysis from the Livermore/Pleasanton Fire Department (LPFD), indicating reservations about a launch site othe? than the Fairgrounds, and the potential cost (minimum $70,000) to provide the show. After discussion, the Commission recommended that the City Council pursue the concept of a co- sponsored fireworks event with the Alameda County Fair Board on future July 4th holidays. Minutes from the Commission meeting are included as Attachment 2. City staff contacted Fair General Manager Rick Pickering to solicit his input about reinitiating July 4th fire~vorks. Mr. Pickering indicated that the Fair's insurance company would not provide coverage for such an activity unless it had the support of the County Sheriff. As a result of the 1998 incident, the Sheriff has declined to support resumption of the event, as his Department could not assure an acceptable level of public safety for fairgoers and the surrounding Pleasanton community. Given the Sheriff's position, the Fairgrounds has continued to rule out a fireworks show on July 4th. Parks and Recreation Commissioner Kurt Kummer subsequently suggested another site - the Dublin San Ramon Services District (DSRSD) property bordered by Johnson and Stoneridge drives, near the 1-580/680 freeway interchange. Staff conducted further research regarding that site, which is discussed below. DISCUSSION Proposed Site: The proposed alternate site is located near the Johnson Drive/Stoneridge Drive intersection (Attachment 3). Stoneridge Drive borders the south end of the property; Johnson Drive the west and north sides; and commercial businesses along the eastern border. The property is owned by DSRSD, and is used for further decomposition of treated sewer sludge. The fenced site is composed of four (4) facultative sludge lagoons (holding ponds) and an open field. Commissioner Kummer has proposed that the field serve as the fireworks launch area. SR 05:144 Page 2