Could we consider an auction fundraiser for the city/fire department/schools where winners are chosen to decorate fire hydrants, based on the highest donations, in the brightest most colorful ways possible. Could be done every few years for sustainable income. Other cities have done it. Milaca, MN would be an example. 
Ticket Comment
Josh Elliott, LMFD, responded to the email as follows:
Thank you for your inquiry regarding Fire Hydrants here within the City of Lathrop. Unfortunately, the California Fire Code requires our Fire Hydrants to be painted their color based on what the available gallons per minute in the event of a fire. Approved color coordination is industry standard in the Fire Service.