Elk Grove library trustee eyes coalition to support H.S. fireworks

Elk Grove Village Public Library Trustee Timothy Burns recently questioned Elk Grove Village Mayor Craig Johnson's support of the high school homecoming fireworks display each year through his campaign funds.

At a recent Elk Grove Village board meeting, Burns said the fireworks display should be free from political influence, and that he wants to create a foundation to pay for it.

“I would like to be able to have a true community coalition to fund the fireworks display,” Burns said.

Johnson said he has used a portion of his campaign donations to fund Elk Grove High School's fireworks display since 2002, and that it's perfectly legal to do so according to election code. He started out paying $750 for the fireworks display, which today costs $1,500 and is put on by Johnny Rockets, the village's fireworks vendor.

“The reason it's not considered campaigning is you (have to) ask for some action; ‘vote for me,' ‘re-elect me',” Johnson said.

Johnson said his name is mentioned during the fireworks display only to acknowledge that he is the one sponsoring it.

“It's considered a donation,” he added. “It's very strict. We follow the rules very carefully.”

Johnson said it's not unusual for candidates to donate what is left over in their campaign coffers to charities. He personally contributes the American Cancer Society Relay For Life at the high school, the Rotary Club, Lions Club and Artist Association of Elk Grove.

Johnson has deep ties to the Elk Grove High School.

“My kids have all gone to school there. My wife and I both graduated from the high school in 1978,” he said.

However, the main reason for sponsoring the display was so that students didn't have to pay for it through their student council fund, Johnson said.

Johnson encouraged Burns to create the foundation and raise the money for the fireworks display.

“If you can do it, I'd be more than happy to have you do it,” Johnson said. “I can find other things to give that money to in the community. I just don't want the kids to have to pay for it. Let them raise money for their programs.”