UPDATE: Council to Reconsider Fireworks Cancellation, Library Cuts

Milpitas city leaders will reconsider their decisions to cancel the July 4 fireworks show and cut library hours after a Patch story last week discussed whether the city broke state laws by not properly notifying the public of the controversial decisions.

The city is still investigating the situation and Milpitas city attorney Mike Ogaz said he believes city council properly followed California law. However, council members have agreed to discuss the issues again to give all residents who may have missed the first meeting a chance to voice their concerns. 

“In light of the controversy caused by your article, and the City's desire to operate in the most transparent manner possible, the City Manager has decided to put this matter on the next meeting agenda to allow all interested persons an additional opportunity to weigh and consider the item,” Ogaz wrote in an e-mail to Milpitas Patch.

The recommendation to eliminate fireworks and library hours remains the same. The city continues to face an ongoing financial crisis after the state cut millions from its budget when it eliminated redevelopment agencies last year. Library hours would drop from 66 to 54 hours per week.

However, residents are welcome to voice their thoughts, concerns and even ideas for saving the fireworks and library hours before the council makes its final decision.

That meeting will be 7 p.m. March 6 at Milpitas City Hall.