The City of Belleview is taking early steps toward bringing a full Fourth of July fireworks celebration to the community in 2026. During the most recent city commission meeting, Community Engagement Liaison Robert Vass presented updated information on what the event would require in terms of cost, staffing, and logistics.
The idea is part of a larger collaboration with Marion County for America250, the nationwide commemoration of the country’s 250th anniversary. Vass said staff have continued to meet with the Belleview Police Department and the Public Works Department to outline needs for a show scheduled for July 4, 2026. Early estimates place the city’s portion of expenses somewhere between twenty eight thousand and fifty thousand dollars, depending on final sponsorships and equipment needs.
The list of projected costs includes event tents, tables, face painting stations, a DJ, golf cart rentals, food and water supplies, staffing, and waste management. Tents are estimated at roughly three thousand dollars combined, while two face painting setups could cost as much as two thousand dollars. Golf carts for staff use are projected at two thousand to twenty five hundred dollars, and a DJ would add about five hundred dollars. Food, water, and other supplies are projected at roughly five thousand dollars.
Staffing needs for the day are expected to total about twenty thousand dollars.
Waste management plans are also under review, with staff requesting three dumpsters, collapsible cans with liners, and twelve portable bathroom stations that include traditional, ADA, and handwashing units. Fire and rescue costs are still pending. Discussions are ongoing with providers to determine final pricing and availability.
Vass told commissioners that he has already started conversations with local businesses for both sponsorships and in kind donations. The Belleview CEP has also been contacted to assist in exploring funding opportunities. City Administrator Mike Moody noted that Marion County is seeking countywide sponsorships to cover fireworks displays at multiple locations for the America250 celebration.
Venue coordination is another part of planning. The city is working with Armstrong to secure use of their land, and Vass reported that tentative approval has been received. Marion County has already secured the Sports Complex for its portion of the event. Parking plans will be finalized after the city meets with the fireworks vendor to determine staging and launch requirements.
Belleview City Commissioners agreed that more information is needed before making any decisions.
