The Washington County Board of Commissioners has approved a $107,950 contract with Firefly Drone Shows, LLC, to provide a choreographed drone light show as part of the county’s 250th anniversary celebration. The decision, made during the November 5, 2024, meeting, passed with a unanimous 4-0 vote.
This article is part of our Local and Regional Government Efficiency (LARGE) Spending tracking initiative, which aims to shed light on local and regional government spending by looking at unusual expenses.
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This article is the first in a series by Radio Free Hub City aimed at examining local government spending and highlighting unique or unusual expenditures, as part of our Local and Regional Government Efficiency (LARGE) Spending tracking initiative. While Radio Free Hub City makes no claims regarding the justification of these expenses, the series seeks to present this information in an unbiased manner, allowing residents to form their own opinions about how public funds are allocated. By shedding light on such decisions, the series hopes to foster greater transparency and engagement in local and regional governance.
The drone show, a modern alternative to traditional fireworks, will feature illuminated, synchronized aerial displays. Using state-of-the-art technology, the drones will form a variety of choreographed patterns, including formations that highlight local themes and incorporate sponsor logos. The Michigan-based Firefly Drone Shows will oversee all aspects of the performance, including creative programming, setup, and FAA-compliant drone operation.
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The county’s purchasing department advertised the contract widely, issuing a request for proposals on July 18, 2024, through state and local channels. Despite interest from 21 registered bidders, only one formal proposal was submitted. The winning proposal from Firefly Drone Shows was deemed responsive and responsible.
To mitigate the financial impact of the $107,950 expenditure, the county plans to offset costs through sponsorships. The Public Relations and Marketing team will spearhead efforts to attract local and regional sponsors, offering promotional opportunities in exchange for funding support. Proceeds from the county’s Hotel/Motel Tax account will cover any remaining expenses.
The drone show is expected to be a central feature of the county’s semi-quincentennial celebration, drawing attention to the historical milestone while offering an innovative and visually striking experience for attendees. The county hopes that this investment will not only enhance the event but also generate significant community interest and participation.
The request for proposal award, PUR-1697, is available in our Public Information Archive.
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