Alton, Mo. – On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Alton City Council had its monthly meeting. Over 30 residents were present to share ideas and follow up on previous suggestions. While much of the talk dealt with the city parks, other news was discussed, too.
Food Trucks
Pamela, with The Cherry On Top, spoke on the food trucks, permitting them, and their business. While she pays for a brick-and-mortar building, they do not. She is not totally against them, but wishes there was a way to work alongside them without her having to hire help on a day when it would not be necessary. She expressed the desire to see these food trucks at our local events, like the Walnut Festival or the Fourth of July events.
However, there is no way to restrict these vendors when they make agreements with private property owners. One cannot discriminate to allow certain vendors to work certain days to accommodate full-time businesses.
Economic development is good, alongside competition, the city council remarked.
Notices
As there is an urgent need for a place for messages, notices, and paying bills, the city is strongly looking into a website.
Donation
The Alton Bank made a sizeable donation to the park department, the food pantry, and the local fire departments.
Parks
What to do with our parks?
Tucker Creek
Certain times of the year are more stressful on parks than other times. Heavy rains, like what was experienced on Friday night, cause severe erosion to the Tucker Creek Park playground. A retaining wall will not work. However, the park department will be moving most of the playground equipment to a level area by the walking trail.
Piney Creek
At the end of town is Piney Creek Park. It was just discovered that the city does Not own all of the property! The playground equipment is located on private property.
Pool
It was voted on and agreed to give each pool lifeguard a $100 bonus, as it was a hectic year. There have been 50 pool parties so far this year. The final open day for the pool is August 21.
Pocket Park
They have a contract for the Chamber to sign agreeing to lease the pocket park.
Water Department
When the power goes out, the pumps need to be reset. To get a more modern system could cost $250,000. The council agreed to keep going the way they are, resetting the pump.
Police
They are considering a new vehicle. The one to be replaced will go to city maintenance.
Roads
The square will be resurfaced this weekend, weather permitting. After that, they want to do the tennis courts and follow up on the poor roads.
With many people present, there were no angry words even when disagreements arose. The council is listening to the townspeople.
