Alton, Mo. – The Alton City Council met for its monthly meeting on Monday, July 13, 2026. Although many people came to speak about and hear about the proposed plans for the ‘pocket park’, that was not all that was discussed.
After reciting the pledge and adjusting the minutes from the last meeting, the discussion of the small pocket park began. Several townspeople had registered beforehand to share their opinions. There were approximately 30 people present.
Park
Six residents had requested talking time. They spoke well. Then it was open for discussion, with the council often rebuking the citizens. The discussion went back and forth about what can be affordable and usable. In conclusion, both the chamber of commerce and the city will execute contracts under which the chamber will lease the pocket park for $1 per year. The chamber would handle all renovations and maintenance, as it had already received input from residents.
In these discussions, it was noted that the previous park board had a grant that was awarded but not used for all its intended purposes.
Other News
The council approved the culture club’s use of the square again on August 8 for junk-in-a-trunk. Mr. Combs was there asking for input on the fireworks show. Everyone did enjoy the show, although the bathrooms are an issue.
A well went down in the city and needs new parts. They are hoping the parts on it are still under warranty. The police vehicles need replacing. They plan on blacktopping the square and part of Market Street. It could take a while because so much traffic happens on the square that it cannot be shut down. The city also needs its own website to collect payments. They are looking into it.
