Could Rolling Meadows fireworks be cut in 2010?

Fireworks will go off as usual as part of Rolling Meadows' Fourth of July festivities, but this might be the last year they are paid for by the city.

The fireworks will be at Salk Park, east of Owl Drive and north of Central Road at dusk, about 9:15 p.m. July 4.

The 30-minute, $20,000 display represents the third year of the city's three-year contract for pyrotechnics, said Don Wenzel, facilities superintendent.

"We'll look for corporate sponsorship in coming years with economic conditions the way they are," he said.

However, Mayor Ken Nelson said it is too early to make such decisions.

"We're very proud of our fireworks, but everything's got to be on the table given the financial times," he said.

He expects staff members to start making budget presentations for the 2010 calendar year to the City Council in the late summer or early fall. He did say, however, that the staff has been directed to suggest budget cuts of 5 percent for the remainder of this year.

Rolling Meadows pays for the fireworks out of the general fund, said Wenzel.

The Rolling Meadows Chamber of Commerce is organizing the city's Fourth of July parade, which will start at 11:30 a.m. at Barker Lane and Central Road. A 3.2K "Family Walk/Bike in the Park will take place from 1-4 p.m. in Salk Park, sponsored by the city's Cancer Awareness Committee.