San Benito High School trustees authorized the district superintendent to sign a contract for a homecoming fireworks display following a brief discussion about the hazards of holding such an event during a drought year.
“I love fireworks and I like fire and stuff,” said Superintendent John Perales, as the audience laughed. “I probably shouldn’t say that. But should we have fireworks given the condition that we’re under?”
The board authorized Perales to sign an agreement with Fireworks & Stage FX America, Inc./ LLC for a $1,800 show funded by the student body. As part of the contract, the district agrees to pay for any required “standby” firemen along with any applicable permit costs or fees.
The principal and superintendent talked about the devastation of current and former fires in California and told trustees it was fine if they didn’t want to approve the contract this year.
“This is not a deal breaker, I think, for homecoming,” said Principal Todd Dearden. “It is a nice thing to do.”
Trustee Evelyn Muro had asked if they could substitute in balloons this year, with a laugh.
Trustee Bill Tiffany asked how many years the fireworks had been a part of homecoming, and Trustee Juan Robledo estimated about 10 years.
“It’s been a long time,” Robledo said.
