Town discusses Fall Foliage Marathon permit after residents raise safety and for-profit-use concerns

The Town Board discussed an application from the Fall Foliage Marathon organizer to use town roads for the for-profit race at the Jan. 27 meeting. Several residents who live along Mill Road and South Mill Road raised safety concerns, saying parts of the route are narrow, have blind curves and have recently seen changes such as a collapsed section that increased traffic on alternate roads. Residents urged additional safety measures and more notice to affected homeowners.

The organizer (identified in the meeting as Matt) said the race brings local runners and visitors, that it has historically paid for police coverage, and that race proceeds are donated to charities including the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the Northern Dutchess Hospital Foundation. The organizer said donation amounts vary by year and depend on online registration; he estimated donations in past years have ranged (depending on the year) from the mid five-figures to roughly $40,000 in high years.

Several residents asked whether the use of town roads by a for-profit event is appropriate and urged the town to prioritize safety for drivers, runners and farm equipment users. The board acknowledged both support for the event and resident concerns. Town officials proposed several follow-up steps: reach out to Dutchess County Emergency Services (Bill Beal), contact the county DPW to confirm road status (Bob Ballkind or equivalent), consider a fee schedule to offset town costs, and explore additional safety measures such as signage and coordination with emergency services.

Organizers and residents said they were open to adjustments to the route or timing to reduce conflicts; the board said it would work with the organizer to develop a safety plan and bring a follow-up to a future agenda. No formal permit decision or denial was made at the Jan. 27 meeting.