Alton Select Board cancels 2026 5K, cites staffing and volunteer shortages

The Alton Select Board voted on April 28 to cancel the town’s annual 5K road race for 2026, citing insufficient staff and volunteer support.

Kenneth Roberts, chairman of the Parks and Recreation Commission, told the board the recreation program had lost a dedicated assistant and that volunteers who traditionally staffed the race are no longer available; he said running the event this year would impose overtime costs (he cited roughly $2,000) on the police department and risk public safety. “She’s asking to cancel the race,” Roberts said, urging the board to support that request.

Board members agreed the town is short‑staffed — the recreation assistant’s last day was reported as the previous day — and moved to cancel the event for 2026. The motion was made and seconded and passed by voice vote.

Selectmen said they hope to return to hosting the race next year once staffing is restored and encouraged volunteers and Parks and Rec leadership to plan for a 2027 event. No further directive on replacement dates or alternate arrangements was recorded.