By Kellen Olshefski
Editor
The Elkhorn Finance and Judicial Committee sided in favor of J&M Displays, Inc., Monday night when the topic of this year’s fireworks display once again came to the table.
The committee had previously been in conversations with Bartolotta Fireworks, Inc., in attempt to figure out where last year’s fireworks went wrong and while it seemed the city was making progress with the company, the choice became a whole lot easier Monday night.
After the committee had directed city staff previously to request an itemized list from Bartolotta Fireworks, similar to what was offered by J&M Displays, Chairman Scott McClory said Bartolotta Fireworks failed to respond to the city’s request.
“I agree with Sam’s conclusion that since they completely blew us off and didn’t even give us a courtesy thanks, no thanks or we’ll be in touch, they are clearly not interested in securing our business for 2016,” he said.
Additionally, McClory noted J&M Displays had agreed to revise their agreement with the city, offering them a one-year trial in 2016 rather than a multi-year contract. While City Administrator Sam Tapson said all discounting wouldn’t be available with this agreement, it would give the city the opportunity to review the company’s performance after this year’s display before committing to a multi-year deal.
The committee voted unanimously in favor of going with J&M Displays for a one-year contract and the topic will come before the City of Elkhorn Common Council at an upcoming meeting.
