Working to Avoid an Explosive Fourth : Independence Day Has Been Marred for Two Years Running in Huntington Beach

The Fourth of July should be devoted to sun, speeches and parades, a welcome holiday to mark the nation’s birthday. Unfortunately for Huntington Beach, the past two Independence Days also have meant unruly behavior. Two years ago the situation got so bad police said it nearly became a riot.

Police have promised to be ready for any disturbances this year. The holiday parade, which traditionally draws throngs of spectators, will be manned by California Highway Patrol officers, letting the city’s police patrol other parts of Huntington Beach. Police will put the tactical team on the streets, plus officers on motorcycle and horseback, plus a helicopter at the ready and the entire force on call. Orange County Sheriff’s Department deputies will also assist.

It is unfortunate that the massive display of police power is necessary, but it is understandable. Parade-goers and families out for a relaxing day of sun and surf deserve a hassle-free time. Police also need to walk the fine line between heading off trouble and overreacting, a charge some residents lodged last year.

Police said this year they will have at least five mobile video teams filming illegal activity. That tactic should have the added benefit of documenting whether police use excessive force.

It is not just the police who must perform a balancing act in an effort to see as many people as possible have a good time while troublemakers are weeded out. Merchants have also been forced to decide between staying open as long as possible, taking advantage of large crowds in a free-spending holiday mood, and shutting early to remove another possible attraction for the rowdy. Nearly all the downtown merchants have promised to close by 7 p.m. The time is important because last year the disturbances occurred after dark.

Police have also been presenting a show of force in Huntington Beach since Memorial Day. They said they wanted people to become accustomed to seeing the blue uniforms, writing tickets and enforcing laws. New laws went into effect this month to stop motorists from cruising and to increase the possible fines on parents of youngsters who violate the 10 p.m. curfew.

Those tools should be enough to keep the city quiet on July 4. If so, the planning by police and city officials that was promised after last year’s problem-filled holiday will have been worthwhile. If not, even after all the planning, the city might unfortunately have to cancel future “official” July 4 observations.