McCall council weighs three models for July 4 celebration, asks staff to refine costs

McCall City Council and staff used a special meeting to revisit planning for the July 4 celebration, focusing on three possible approaches to crowd control, parking and the show itself. Erin, the staff presenter, told the council this was ‘‘your 2nd touch about the July 4’’ and listed five decisions for the body: the celebration model, parking/transportation access, the show format (fireworks or drone), security funding and business sponsorships.

The three models presented were described as tiers. The "enhanced" approach adds modest controls to last year’s setup (more gated security and bag checks); the "managed" option expands park-and-ride and introduces paid event parking to offset security costs; and the most restrictive "hometown" model would close many large lots and push shuttles and walking to concentrate activity downtown. Staff encouraged a hybrid approach, saying councils could ‘‘take some pieces out of each 1 that you like and we can create that for you.’’

Council members expressed competing priorities: reducing vehicle congestion and protecting a local feel while improving safety. One member asked about neighborhood spillover if lots are closed; staff said temporary signage, HOA outreach and coordination with private lot owners (Albertsons, Natural Grocers) would be part of mitigation. The council did not adopt a final model at the meeting and directed staff to return with detailed cost breakdowns, security funding scenarios and sponsorship proposals.