Fourth of July Committee cancels parade, concert, and fireworks due to staffing shortages.
Fourth of July Committee · Meeting of May 13, 2026
RUTLAND — Fourth of July Committee cancels signature events over staff shortages. Following a failed town override vote that will reduce police and fire staffing, the committee voted 7-1 to cancel the July 3rd band concert and fireworks and the July 4th parade, citing safety concerns for the expected 12,000 attendees. Fire and police representatives Justin Bassett and Dan Collinge presented the staffing constraints.
Alternative celebrations will proceed the weekend before July 4th, including a pancake breakfast on the morning of the 4th, with a joint safety statement from the Police Chief, Fire Chief, and committee to be issued. The committee's $45,932.91 balance will be preserved for future events.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 342 words
Source: the Fourth of July Committee meeting of May 13, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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