The California Coastal Commission has rejected a final appeal to continue a decades-long Fourth of July fireworks tradition in Long Beach, citing environmental concerns. The event, organized by John Morris, has raised over $2 million for local children's programs over the past 14 years. The commission's decision, upheld unanimously last week, follows a January rejection by staff and comes despite support from local, state, and federal officials.
Morris, a Long Beach resident and business owner, had planned a scaled-up display to mark America’s 250th Independence Day. He argued that the community fully funds the event, including $20,000 for city fees for police and fire services, and that the event has undergone 10 years of environmental studies. The commission has pushed organizers to switch to drone shows, which they consider more environmentally friendly.
The decision contrasts with other approvals by the commission, such as a permit granted to SeaWorld for up to 40 nights of fireworks in Mission Bay. Morris questioned the inconsistency, stating, 'They get 40 nights in Mission Bay. All I’m asking for is 20 minutes — it doesn’t make any sense.'