Santa Clara Keeps July 4 Celebration at Mission College

City Council votes to continue event at college despite public preference for Central Park

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Despite overwhelming public support to have Santa Clara's July 4 celebration return to Central Park, the city's Council voted to keep the event at Mission College for the third straight year. Council members cited logistical concerns like parking and traffic, as well as the event's proximity to a FIFA World Cup game, as reasons for the decision. The difference in cost between the two options is roughly $100,000, with a city fireworks event in Central Park costing $254,100 and the event at Mission College costing $154,000.

Why it matters

The decision to keep the July 4 celebration at Mission College rather than the preferred Central Park location highlights the ongoing tension between the city government and its residents over community events and public spaces. It raises questions about how much the city should prioritize public input versus logistical concerns when planning major events.

The details

Several council members expressed worries about logistics such as parking, traffic, and the event's proximity to a FIFA World Cup game on July 1. The city's recreation manager presented three options: an evening event with fireworks at Central Park, a daytime city picnic, or continuing the event at Mission College. A community survey of over 400 residents showed overwhelming support for the night event at Central Park. However, the council voted 5-2 to keep the event at Mission College, with Council Member Kelly Cox and Mayor Lisa Gillmor dissenting.

  • The Santa Clara City Council voted on the July 4 celebration location at its most recent meeting on February 10, 2026.
  • The July 4 celebration has been held at Mission College for the past two years.

The players

Santa Clara City Council

The governing body of the city of Santa Clara, California that voted on the location of the July 4 celebration.

Kevin Park

A Santa Clara City Council member who expressed concerns about logistics like parking and traffic if the event was held at Central Park.

Kelly Cox

A Santa Clara City Council member who opposed holding the July 4 celebration at Mission College, saying it lacked the "heart" and "family feel" of a community event at Central Park.

Lisa Gillmor

The Mayor of Santa Clara who opposed holding the July 4 celebration at Mission College, saying it went against clear public sentiment.

Patty Wong

The city librarian of Santa Clara who presented the library's strategic and master plans to the City Council.

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What they’re saying

“I know that the neighborhoods have always been jammed with people parking on the streets, parking in people's driveways, blocking our driveways, blocking the streets. If we don't have the parking, if we don't have the other essential elements resolved, if we don't have those, this could be a worse experience for everyone. I think there is more to consider than just where it is.”

— Kevin Park, Santa Clara City Council Member (svvoice.com)

“This is kind of a slap in the face, saying 'you've said what you wanted. We are going to do something different'.”

— Lisa Gillmor, Mayor of Santa Clara (svvoice.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.