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Altoona City Council Meeting, June 8th, 2026
Published: Jun 8, 2026
Blair Regional YMCA's Fourth of July Race Aims to Boost Downtown Altuna Economy
The Altuna City Council meeting featured a presentation from the Blair Regional YMCA regarding the annual Angie Jiosa Fourth of July race. Last year's event had 1,084 registered participants, with approximately 1,200 total including the kids' "lollipop" race. Nearly 40% of participants were Altuna residents. The race represented participants from eight states. For the 250th anniversary, the YMCA is partnering with downtown businesses like the Michel Theater, Levity Brewing, and the Railroads Museum to encourage attendees to visit downtown Altuna for packet pickup and related activities, aiming to boost local commerce and showcase downtown. Future plans include expanding the event when the race falls on a Sunday.
Altuna City Council Recognizes Firefighters, Addresses Park Safety Concerns
The Altuna City Council meeting included recognitions for firefighters, specifically Captain Cameron Sunderland and Captain Nicholas Wukovich, who received the life-saving award and valor award for their actions during a dwelling fire on April 26th, 2025, at 105 East 4th Avenue. The incident involved rescuing three children and a disabled adult, though one occupant could not be saved. Additionally, an Assistant Chief, several Captains, Engineers, and Firefighters received the unit citation award for exceptional teamwork, professionalism, courage, and dedication during the same incident. The meeting also addressed ongoing safety and quality of life concerns at Iselina Park, with residents reporting incidents of fighting, vandalism, noise, property damage, and disturbances. Police Chief Swope acknowledged the concerns, stating that the department is re-evaluating its approach and has made several arrests, with more pending. Council members expressed support for addressing the park issues.
Altuna City Council Approves Contracts for Rec Center, Traffic Signals, Street Signs, and Demolition Projects
The Altuna City Council approved several resolutions, including awarding contracts for RTUs at East Uniata Rec Center to Clark Contractors for $75,932.30, and traffic control signals at Logan Boulevard and Bill Avenue to Dixon Electric of Claysburg for $423,002.25. Contracts for street signs and materials were awarded to PA Municipal of Huntington ($7,693.00) and National Highway Products of New Jersey ($45,642.40). The council also adopted the 2026 CDBG Home Annual Action Plan and the Blair County 2026 Hazard Vulnerability Assessment and Mitigation Plan. Additionally, demolition bids for various properties were awarded to G&R Excavating and Demolition of Tyrone, totaling over $80,000. Repository bids for properties on 6th Avenue, 337th Avenue, South 8th Street, and North 6th Avenue were approved, with some motions failing to pass.
Juneteenth Proclamation and Local History Highlighted; Heritage Plaza Beautification Recognized
During public comment, Harriet Gaston acknowledged Mayor Pacificico's proclamation for Juneteenth and shared information about the local connection to the holiday, specifically the restoration of the historic Eastern Light Cemetery. She noted that six men buried there fought in the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. The speaker highlighted this local history and its connection to the end of slavery. The city council also recognized the Altuna Women's Club, The Tipsy Tulip, and Kelly Irwin for planting flowers in Heritage Plaza, enhancing its appearance.
Residents Demand Action on Iselina Park's Deteriorating Conditions; Family Requests Name Removal
During the public comment section, residents expressed significant concerns about ongoing safety and quality of life issues at Iselina Park, citing incidents of fighting, vandalism, excessive noise, and disturbances. Residents requested increased police patrols, security cameras, better lighting, limited park hours, or removal of problematic structures. A resident, Debbie Iselino, requested the removal of her family's name from the park due to its current state, highlighting her father's original vision for a safe place for children. Another resident suggested downsizing the park to a tot lot. Police Chief Swope acknowledged the validity of concerns and stated that the department is re-evaluating its strategies, has made arrests, and has pending arrests related to incidents including assault videos and organized fights among juveniles.
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