LYNWOOD — The City Council Tuesday night approved this year’s Fourth of July celebration, with the condition that costs be reduced by $17,000 — funds that were earmarked for entertainment.

The annual event not only commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, but also celebrates the city’s July 4, 1921 incorporation. The city turns 89 this year.

The city’s celebration typically involves such components as a carnival, entertainment, and food booths showcasing the many cultures in the community, concluding with a fireworks display.

Mayor Maria Santillan, and council members Ramon Rodriguez and Jim Morton gave direction on Tuesday night that the city host the program with the 10 percent budget reduction.

Councilman Alfredo Flores cast the dissenting vote and Mayor Pro Tem Aide Castro was absent.

Council members questioned some of the costs of the event, but were told that things such as security personnel, the presence of sheriff’s deputies and things such as stage set-up and light towers were necessary for the event.

According to Perry Brents, director of recreation and community services, this year’s entertainment will be provided by local dance groups and drill teams. Aside from those dance exhibitions and entertainment provided by a local DJ, the day’s activities will be dedicated to recreational contests, family fun and prize giveaways. Total costs for this year’s event add up to $43,000. Funds will be allocated from the adopted fiscal year 2009-10 budget.

Though the event will cost the city $17,000 less, Brents said those in attendance might not notice the difference.

“The only difference is in the costs,” he said. “But it’s still going to be a big, spectacular event.”

In cutting the city’s budget over the last two years, the council has cut back on hosting between 30 and 36 events a year from a few years ago. The city now hosts four different events, including Easter and Christmas.

“The city wants its residents to enjoy their city,” Brents said. “We want our residents to buy into their city. We know the economy is bad, but the city still knows that it needs to give back to its citizens.”

The event draws about 10,000 people every year, said Brents. But because this year’s event falls on a Sunday, the city is expecting more than 12,000 attendees.

The fact that it falls on a Sunday also allows the city to save some money, since manpower is the event’s biggest cost.

As far as he remembers, Brents said the Fourth of July event has always been a peaceful one.

“That’s the beauty of this event,” he said. “We’ve had 10,000 people in the park, and have never had any issues … because it’s a family event, and people are with their families, and they’re enjoying themselves, and at the same time, it gives people the chance to see each other in a different light and meet their neighbors.”

The only fireworks permitted in the city are the so-called safe ’n sane fireworks. However, they will not be allowed at the park during the celebration.
The event’s fireworks provider will be based in an informal bid process between two companies: Zamboni and Pyro Spectaculars.

The contract will go to the lowest bidder, Brents said.

Either way attendees will be treated to the usual 25 to 30 minute show.

Councilman Rodriguez said he sees the Fourth of July event as a big family picnic.

“You don’t see a lot of cities doing this for their residents,” said Rodriguez. “So you get a lot of families coming in from other cities. … And in my opinion, it’s nice to see people from all walks of life, and from our neighboring cities, coming together for one big happy family reunion.”