Staff recommends discontinuing Moonlight Half Marathon after low resident participation; council supportive of reallocating funds

Logan, parks and recreation staff, presented participation and financial data for the Moonlight Half Marathon and outlined three possible courses: continue efforts to increase participation, modify the event’s format or timing, or discontinue the race and reallocate funds to other programs. Logan said the five‑year average resident participation rate is about 31 percent and that staff projects roughly $36,000 in revenue at current (50%) participation, with sold‑out revenue nearer $65,000.

Logan cited public‑safety and logistical challenges — the event crosses three jurisdictions, requiring coordination of permits and public‑safety resources — and said staffing costs have risen with increased participation. He said the event originally served as a fundraiser for the parkway trail and that the trail has largely been completed, reducing the race’s original fundraising purpose.

Several council members said they enjoyed the event but agreed its community reach is limited. Councilor Jones said she supported discontinuing the event and reallocating funds to programs that serve a higher proportion of residents. Logan said staff’s recommendation is to discontinue the event and to return with alternative ideas or refined events that better serve local participants and costs.

No formal motion was taken to discontinue the race at this meeting; staff will report back with proposals for reallocating funds or modifying the event.