Glendale to plan breakfast, parade and support for Alton's 250th Independence Day events

The Glendale board discussed options for July 4 observances, including partnering with Alton’s large 250th‑anniversary fireworks and running a local morning parade and breakfast to keep the town engaged. Chair said Alton has an extensive schedule and big fireworks display, and suggested Glendale stage a parade and breakfast and then allow residents to attend Alton’s evening fireworks.

Board members debated timing (move the town event to the Saturday closest to July 4 for better turnout), committee leadership, and a fundraising approach to offset costs for food, bounce houses and possibly a local fireworks display. One council member said the last few years had been “nothing” and supported partnering with Alton for evening fireworks while the town focuses on a morning parade and community breakfast. The Chair said he will start forming a planning committee and noted a Parks & Transportation grants meeting on June 17 where the town could request funds to support the event.

Next steps: Chair will recruit volunteers for an events committee, staff will check grant opportunities in the June 17 meeting and the board will coordinate timing with nearby towns to avoid competing parades. The town aims to hold a local parade and breakfast the morning of the Saturday closest to July 4 and encourage residents to attend Alton’s evening fireworks if they wish.