10/06/2026
An Open Letter to the Residents of Attleboro
Dear residents of Attleboro,
On behalf of the Attleboro Fireworks Committee, we want to speak directly to our community regarding the future of the July 4th celebration. Recently, When the mayor addressed the City Council, she explained that, because of recent staff cuts, the current structure of the Fireworks Committee—which includes one current city employee and one former city employee—cannot continue in its present form. The Mayor has always been a supportive proponent of this annual celebration, and she wants this tradition to continue; however, with reduced staffing, the city simply does not have the capacity to lead the Fireworks Committee any longer while also maintaining essential daily responsibilities.
Over the last two-plus years, Christy Clausen, Director of Recreation, has led the committee while also managing the Recreation Department, which includes overseeing the city’s recreation fields, planning and executing resident activities, supporting after-school programs, managing the city pools, coordinating summer camps, and delivering many other resident-focused programs. Asking Christy to continue leading the Fireworks Committee on top of those duties is simply not sustainable. The resident volunteers on the committee understand this, and we want to thank Christy for her leadership over the last several years.
We have been actively working on a solution that will allow us to continue this cherished event without relying on city resources where possible.
The Attleboro fireworks celebration has always been about bringing families, neighbors, local businesses, and friends together. It reflects the pride we share in our city and the value we place on community traditions. It also supports our local economy by bringing visitors to Attleboro, encouraging them to spend money at local businesses, and helping showcase the best our city has to offer.
The committee is made up of volunteers who give their time because they care deeply about Attleboro and want to see this celebration continue for future generations.
We want to be clear: the committee intends to move forward with fundraising efforts to support the 2027 fireworks event. To get things started for our 2027 fundraising effort, we are launching a contest for the 2027 Fireworks T-shirt design. Check out our page for all the details.
It is important to note that no city funds will be used for future fireworks events. The money currently in the fireworks fund was raised through generous community and business donations over the past 12 months.
Thanks to that support, we have already reached approximately 70% of our 2027 fundraising goal. That progress is a strong reflection of the generosity, civic pride, and commitment of Attleboro residents and local businesses. We are grateful to everyone who has contributed, sponsored, volunteered, or helped spread the word.
At the same time, there is still important work ahead. To reach our goal and host an event for 2027, we are looking for additional community fundraising volunteers. Whether you can help make calls, reach out to businesses, organize a small fundraiser, assist with sponsorship outreach, or share information with neighbors, your involvement can make a meaningful difference.
The fireworks celebration belongs to the community, and its future depends on community support. We invite residents, businesses, civic groups, and anyone who values this tradition to join us as we continue working toward future 4th of July celebrations.
If you would like to join the committee as a fundraising volunteer, please reach out to us at [email protected].
We appreciate the opportunity to clarify the facts, and we remain focused on moving forward in a positive, transparent, and collaborative way. Thank you for your continued support of the Attleboro fireworks celebration and for believing in the strength of our community.
Sincerely,
Kevin Turner, Co-Chair
Donna Lavoie, Co-Chair
