Local News

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Friday evening at the Fire Station at #2 South Main. After the call to order and the roll call, the consent agenda was approved including previous meeting minutes review and approval, review of the financial report with an ending balance of $365,887.97, review and approval of the bills, and review and approval of the budget. The monthly reimbursement report showed a total of 16 calls for the month and 143 calls for the year. In old business the Board accepted the revised By-Laws, including changes made at the May 2025 meeting. In new business Mary Martin from American Midwestern Insurance was on hand to discuss insurance from VFIS and ESIP for the department and answer questions from the Board. Povident Insurance information from Town and Country Insurance was presented. The Board asked to see some changes in the policy and different options from American Midwestern. Chief Floyd reported that there was an increase of $5,000 on skid units due to a new tariff charge and he will have them re-bid. In his report on tanker trucks Floyd said that after looking at three truck manufacturers, it appears Banner Truck fits our needs better than the Fouts or Sentinel trucks. The Board decided that a special meeting would be required to move forward with brush trucks, so a tentative date was set for June 25th or 26th. Before adjournment July 8th was set for the next regular Board meeting at 6:00.

The Dent County Fire Protection District has launched its brand-new, official website at dentcountyfire.org. The modern, user-friendly site offers the latest news and updates on department activities, board meetings and minutes. You can track the progress of Proposition Fire with a live Google Sheet, listen live to firefighters in action, and quickly access critical resources like weather alerts and fire-safety guidance. Visit dentcountyfire.org today, explore the features, and share your feedback. 

A special waste collection for residential electronics, appliances and tires will be held from 8:00 to noon Saturday at Brewer Science, 2401 Brewer Drive in Rolla. Brewer Science, the City of Rolla and Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), with funding through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) and Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD), are partnering on the collection. The collection is for residential items only – no materials from businesses will be accepted and is open to residents from Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties. Stoves, washers, dryers, hot water heaters, and other appliances will be collected free of charge. Free electronics also include computer components, laptop computers, or anything that runs on a cord or battery. Oil and fuel must be emptied from tanks of any items such as push mowers. All items must be free of debris. Tires on rims will not be accepted. Please note the following items will NOT be accepted: transformers, capacitors or ballasts not clearly marked “No PCBs”; smoke detectors; thermostats; medical waste; gas containers such as propane, oxygen, nitrous oxide; anything leaking oil or acid; broken ink or toner cartridges; alkaline batteries; light bulbs and fluorescent tubes; broken CRTs, TVs or monitors. Fees on certain items will be collected including $25 for CRT TVs over 27 inches, projection screens and wood console TVs, $20 for CRT TVs under 26 inches, $15 for flat screen TVs, $10 for all computer monitors and refrigerated appliances with Freon and $5 for printers, scanners or copiers. Fees for tires are $2 each for passenger tires, $7.50 each for semi-truck tires and $35 each for tractor tires. Electronics and appliances are recycled by Midwest Recycling Center and tires are recycled through Champlin Tires. For more information on items accepted or the fee structure, please contact Jill Hollowell at MRPC at 573-265-2993 Ext. 109 or at jhollowell@meramecregion.org. To keep up with the latest MRPC news and events, visit the MRPC website at www.meramecregion.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/meramecregion/.

The Salem Park and Recreation Board will be holding a meeting today at 5:00 in the afternoon at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. At the meeting, the board will hear from Parks and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois before discussing a by-law amendment. The board will then review and discuss the 2025-26 budget before they appoint new officers for the upcoming year. The Salem Park and Recreation Board meeting is open to the public.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will hold a budget workshop and special meeting today at 5:30 at the Salem R-80 Administrative Offices. At the workshop, a number of CSIP goals will be addressed, while as part of the special meeting, the board will approve soliciting bids for parking lot work and also soliciting bids for the High School track repair. The board will move into executive session where personnel will be discussed before the meeting is adjourned. The Salem R-80 Board of Education Workshop and Special Meeting are open to the public.

The Salem Board of Aldermen was scheduled to meet Tuesday evening at the City Hall Auditorium to discuss five resolutions covering a number of topics, but due to a lack of a quorum, the meeting was cancelled. The next Salem Board of Aldermen meeting is scheduled for June 24th at 6:00 at the City Hall Auditorium.

On Tuesday, June 10th, Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley reported that Jeremy Jackson from Bowling Green, Missouri, was sentenced to serve five years in the Missouri Department of Corrections consecutive to all previously imposed sentences for a total of 20 years in the department of corrections. On May 21st, Jackson had pled guilty in front of Judge Michael Randazzo. Jackson was currently serving a 15-year sentence for a multitude of past crimes involving stealing, burglary and passing bad checks, was charged with the possession of fentanyl as a persistent felony offender.

Bull elk and black bear hunting remain very popular in Missouri, based on the number of people applying for permits. According to Missouri Net the latest numbers from the Missouri Department of Conservation show 5,249 bear applications and 8,409 bull elk applications were received last month for this year’s respective hunting seasons. Last year, the department received 9,300 bull elk applications and 5,969 black bear applications. Two years ago, 5,374 people applied for bear permits and over 8,562 for elk permits. Conservation staff said the numbers of applicants fluctuates from year-to-year and that this year’s drop is not concerning. The application process is a money maker for the conservation department – it charges applicants $10 each for both black bear and bull elk. Those awarded permits have to pay extra fees – $25 extra for bear hunters and $50 extra for elk hunters. Last year, the state agency collected $162,940 in fees from bull elk and black bear applications. The department will select 600 applicants for black bears permits this year, which is a significant increase. In April, the Missouri Conservation Commission approved increasing the number of applications from 400 to 600. No more than 40 bears can be shot down during the season. Only five permits for bull elk will be issued. One of the five permits has to go to someone who owns land in either Shannon, Reynolds, or Carter counties, which is where Missouri’s elk range is located. Black bear season runs from October 18-31. The state has two bull elk seasons – archery season runs from October 18-26, and firearm season is scheduled from December 13-21. Last year, hunters killed 15 black bears and five bull elk. In 2023, 12 black bears and three bull elk were killed by hunters in Missouri.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the Courthouse. In the road report District One Commissioner Keith Green said he had a man going to Springfield for oil for chip and seal. His crew is going to work on Dent County Road 5080, commonly called the Frankie Schartz Road, as they prepare it to be re-chipped and sealed. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams said his district had lots or rain, particularly in the northern portion with 5 plus inches Thursday and more Sunday night. He said his crew worked on the worst spots after the rain Thursday and were returning to work there today, plus hopefully do some grading tomorrow. Williams noted that MoDot is going to close TT for work on the low water crossing so the detour road will be graded as soon as its dry enough. He reported on several breakdowns including repairs Monday to flat tires on Truck #124 and Grader #40. Williams also said that Truck #122 has a major coolant leak that the guys are working to locate and repair if possible. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson had nothing to report. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reminded businesses that the Liquor License renewal deadline is June 30th. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in to report on sales tax receipts. Road and Bridge Fund received $51,490.82, which is up $3,383.73 from June of 2024 and year-to-date it’s up $17,890.08 or about 7%. The Jail Operating and Jail Trust Funds each received $103,403.97, an increase of $6,768.06. Year-to-date these funds are up $35,858.22 and that’s another increase of about 7%. General Revenue received $108,825.11, which reflects an increase of $5,616.63 and year-to-date it’s up $4,577.32 or about .9%. At last Thursday’s meeting Dent County Collector Shannon Vankirk was in to remind everyone age 62 and over of the June 30th deadline for SB190 applications. She also reminded those with delinquent real estate taxes for 2022 that payment is due by June 30th for the one year and after July 1st all three years will be declared due. Vankirk noted she has 67 delinquents left to collect. Her May monthly turnover was $98,692.35. The Commissioners agreed 3-0 to seek proposals for hiring an engineering firm to provide services for 3 FEMA disaster relief projects on Dent County Roads 3210, 4210, and 5150. Firms are to submit a letter of interest to the Dent County Commission, 400 North Main, Salem, MO, 65560. The sealed proposals are to be marked Sealed Engineering Bid and are due July 7th at 10:00 am. Questions should be directed to EMD, Derrick Marfitt at dentcountyemd@gmail.com or contact Gary Larson at 573-368-9099. The next meeting of the Commission will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the Dent County Courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, announces the results of the Driver and Vehicle Safety Division’s 2025 annual school bus inspection program. Missouri’s 2025 school bus inspection results indicate that 10,144 School buses rated as “approved” upon initial inspection, 799 were rated defective, and 312 were rated as “out-of-service” upon initial inspection. Buses with identified defective components require repair within 10 days. Buses placed out-of-service require the correction of the component(s), re-inspection, and a return to service by Patrol personnel prior to further usage in transporting passengers. Colonel Turner said that Missouri State Highway Patrol personnel, with the cooperation of pupil transportation professionals, completed the successful inspection of 11,255 school buses in accordance with Missouri revised state statutes. These efforts help the Patrol, Missouri schools, and private pupil transportation companies ensure schoolchildren are safe while they travel on school buses. Missouri school bus inspection results are a matter of public record. Individual school district results for 2025 are available on the State Highway Patrol Website. Online results show that Dent-Phelps R-III had 4 buses approved, 4 defective, and 2 out-of-service. Green Forest R-2 bus inspection resulted in 2 approved, and 5 found to be defective. Northwood R-IV’s inspection results were 5 approved, 1 defective, and 1 out-of-service. Oak Hill R-1 inspection showed 2 approved, 2 defective, and 1 ruled out-of-service. Salem R-80 buses were 10 approved and 1 defective. For more news, follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperGHQ.
 

A Bunker resident was killed in an accident in Reynolds County Sunday afternoon at 3:05 on Highway 21 two miles north of Ellington. According to the Highway Patrol report a northbound 2006 Honda VTX, operated by a 52-year-old Bunker man, attempted to pass multiple vehicles in a no passing zone. The Honda was struck head on by a southbound 2012 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 21-year-old man from Ellington. The Bunker man was pronounced deceased at the scene by Reynolds County Coroner Jeffrey McSpadden at 4:45. The deceased was not wearing any safety equipment. The report stated that the operator of the Chevrolet was not wearing a safety restraint. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by Aissie’s Towing at Officer’s Request.

A Dent County resident was involved in an accident Sunday afternoon at 3:20 on Highway 8 one and one-half miles east of St. James. According to the Highway Patrol report an eastbound 2010 Chevrolet Cobalt, driven by a 22-year-old Salem woman, traveled off the right side of the roadway, where she overcorrected, then traveled off the left side of the roadway, and overturned before coming to rest upright facing westbound. The woman suffered serious injuries and was flown by Phelps Air Ambulance to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. The report stated that the woman was not wearing a safety restraint. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing.

Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District (ORSWMD) announced that eight Oak Hill Elementary students in Dent County were honored with first and second place awards and honorable mention awards in the 34th Annual Earth Day Poster, Trash and Graphic Art contest. This year’s contest theme was “Put Waste in Its Place.” Winners from Oak Hill Elementary were Corbin Light, 1st Grade Division, First Place Poster, Ashton Poor, 3rd Grade Division, First Place Poster, Jacob Mosher, 1st Grade Division, Second Place Poster, Raelynn England, 1st Grade Division, Honorable Mention Poster, Ava England, 4th Grade Division, Honorable Mention Poster, Ada Greener, 5th Grade Division, Honorable Mention Poster, Xalissa Mosher, 3rd Grade Division, Honorable Mention Poster, and Nora Wright, 2nd Grade Division, Honorable Mention Poster. Oak Hill Elementary students were under the direction of Rachel Privett. Kathryn Hawes, environmental specialist, said that the The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District Earth Day Art Contest is in its 34th year and we were thrilled to see so many entries in all categories including new schools and home school students participating. The contest required participants to re-purpose trash into three-dimensional pieces of art or create posters (hand drawn or graphically designed), based on the year’s theme. There were 779 entries from 15 schools in the district and four home-school groups. The contest was open to kindergarten through 12th grade, home-school, college and university students who reside or attend school in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties.  Tammy Snodgrass, MRPC’s environmental program manager, said that the Earth Day contest is one of my favorite programs. The projects the kids come up with are so creative. You don’t often think of trash as a medium for artistic expression, but it’s a great  way to provide environmental education to our children and increase awareness of solid waste issues. A gallery of awarded students art by grade level may be found on the MRPC website at https://ozarkrivers.org/. The 2025 Earth Day Contest was funded through a ORSWMD grant, made possible through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), along with donations from the following area sponsors: 63 Auto & Truck Parts, Infuze Credit Union, The Maries County Bank – Vienna, Bank of Crocker, DML, LLC, Phelps County Bank – Rolla, Legends Bank – Belle, Belgrade State Bank, Bank of Salem, Security Bank of Pulaski County, First State Community Bank – Rolla and Richland and Town & Country Bank. Gary Larson, Dent County Presiding Commissioner, chairs the ORSWMD. The district’s strategy for solid waste reduction, which has been individually adopted by all member governments and approved by Missouri Department of Natural Resources, involves education and increased recycling and waste reduction efforts in member counties and cities. MRPC provides administration of the district and assists with a variety of implementation projects. For more information about ORSWMD or waste reduction and recycling opportunities in the Ozark Rivers area, contact Tammy Snodgrass, MRPC environmental programs manager, at 573-265-2993 or by email at tsnodgrass@meramecregion.org. Also, find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ORSWMD and on the web at www.ozarkrivers.org. MRPC provides the day-to-day administration for Ozark Rivers.

The City of Salem’s Downtown Project is nearing completion as Maggi Construction crews finish sidewalk and drainage work on the corner in front of The Bank of Salem. New light poles are being installed throughout the downtown area, which will provide historic replica lighting and allow for seasonal decorations, flags, and banners. The next phase includes installation of the historic replica lights atop the new poles and selection of downtown furnishings including trash receptacles. The Dent County Health Center has provided bicycle racks that will be installed throughout downtown and in select locations. Following completion, attention will shift to the historic Dent County Courthouse Square, where Dent County will begin the next phase of revitalization to enhance the beauty and functionality of the public space. The city expressed appreciation to businesses and building owners for their patience during the construction process.

Construction is underway on a new municipal well and a 400,000-gallon water tower as part of Salem’s infrastructure improvements. The project is funded through an ARPA grant of approximately $4,600,000 with a 10% local funding match of $47,000. At the Wastewater Treatment Plant, Phase 2A of planned upgrades is progressing through the preconstruction phase. The $5 million project is entirely funded through an ARPA grant and includes specification and ordering of parts and equipment. Phase 2B, which includes approximately $3,500,000 in grant funding and $2,500,000 in bond-funded financing approved by voters in April 2023, is expected to go out for bid later this summer. The city completed its first full year of enhanced fire hydrant maintenance, including painting hydrants and water valves. Plans are in place to continue this work in the next budget year with Fire Hydrant Services and Repair returning to complete remaining hydrants. Street repaving will occur later this month on East Coffman, West First Street, and South Oak Street, with possible additions of parts of South Louise and South Henderson if funds allow. All streets will receive a 2-inch asphalt overlay.

Recovery efforts from November flooding continue at Salem City Parks and the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Replacement of playground fall zone tiles is underway, and a contractor will soon convert areas formerly filled with rubber chips into a solid surface to improve accessibility and prevent future flood damage. Flood-related fencing repairs are in progress at ballfields in both the main City Park and at Al Brown Fields. Crews continue addressing ongoing repairs at the Wastewater Treatment Plant caused by the flooding. The Airport T-Hangar Project reached completion with construction of a new six-unit T-hangar. The project cost $749,000, with $703,000 reimbursed through grant funding. Required matching funds of approximately $41,000 plus $5,000 for underground electrical work were covered through the Airport Fund from prior years’ hangar rentals and airport fuel sales. Tree trimming of one of the city’s electrical feeder lines is underway and will continue through the end of this month. Crews are trimming trees and branches in accordance with Missouri State Statute, which requires trees be trimmed or removed within 10 feet on each side of electrical lines. 

The Salem Police Department announced that Lieutenant Counts recently graduated from the Missouri Police Chiefs’ Command College, a program that provides high-level training for law enforcement supervisors and offers the opportunity to earn a master’s degree.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at 9:00 in the Courthouse. During public comments Robert Malone, resident in District One, complained to Commissioner Keith Green about the conditions of Dent County Road 6020. Malone said he talked to Green May 15th and that he said the road would be graded and repaired. Green pointed out that the weather has not cooperated and that his grader that works in the Highway 119 area will be making its way down towards 6020. Green again noted that the rainy conditions have really slowed up grading progress and asked for residents’ patience. Representatives from the Salem Chamber Singers were in requesting permission to sell snow cones on the Courthouse Square during the 4th of July Parade. The Commissioners approved the request and thanked them for asking. Commissioner Green said that he had two guys out and part of his crew was gone to Lebanon to get hot mix to do some specific repair to chip and seal areas. He noted that the rest of his crew is addressing the worst spots on roadways with spot application of gravel and grading. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams said he had two guys out and part of his crew was dealing with a low water crossing in the area of Barnitz Farms. He also said that rock would be added, and grading done on Dent County Road 4050. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson announced that the Annual MRPC Awards Banquet would be returning to the Salem Community Center @ The Armory October 23rd. Larson complimented Executive Director Sherry Lea on her work preparing the bid for the banquet. Larson noted that the Commission will need to put out for bids for an engineering firm to work with FEMA for repairing the flood damaged bridges. He also reported that Susan Clancy had contacted him about paying an invoice from Alexander Construction for repair of hail damage to the roof and vent on the Courthouse. Dent County Clerk Angie Curly reported that she balanced with the Collector and Assessor on monthly collections, abatements and add-ons for the month of May. She noted that bills were being approved by the Commissioners for payment and that Ray Schwartz from Senator Justin Brown’s office would be in to visit with the Commission. The next meeting of the Commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the Dent County Courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

Want some free fun that gets family and friends outside in nature? Get hooked on fishing with the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Free Fishing Days June 7th and 8th. During Free Fishing Days, anyone may fish in the Show-Me State without having to buy a fishing permit, trout permit, or trout park daily tag. Free Fishing Days is an annual Department of Conservation event that takes place statewide during the Saturday and Sunday following the first Monday in June. Aside from not needing permits, other fishing regulations remain in effect, such as limits on size and number of fish an angler may keep. Special permits may still be required at some county, city, or private fishing areas. Trespass laws remain in effect on private property. Conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish, and Free Fishing Days encourages people to sample Missouri’s abundant fishing opportunities. Missouri has more than a million acres of surface water, and most of it provides great fishing. More than 200 different fish species are found in Missouri, with more than 20 of them being game fish for the state’s more than 1.1 million anglers. For information on Missouri fishing regulations, fish identification, and more, get a copy of Missouri Department of Conservation’s 2025 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, available where permits are sold, or online at mdc.mo.gov.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol would like to remind the public that driver examination stations throughout the state will be closed on Thursday, June 19, 2025, for the observance of Juneteenth. Normal operations will resume on, June 20, 2025. For more, follow the Missouri State Highway Patrol on X @MSHPTrooperGHQ

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will be meeting tomorrow evening, at 6:00 at the Fire Station at #2 South Main in Salem. After the call to order and roll call the Board will approve the consent agenda which will include review of the minutes, financial report, bills and budget. The monthly reimbursement report will be reviewed followed by old business, which will include approval of Bylaws Revisions. New business will consist of review of insurance for the district. Chief Floyd will then report, and the date will be set for the next meeting. The Board may vote to go into closed session, which will be followed by adjournment. The regular meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors in open to the public.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has released the following reports for May 23rd through 30th. On Friday the 23rd Deputies took a report of tires being dumped on County Road 6150. Suspect information was obtained, and the investigation is ongoing. Then on Saturday the 24th, Deputies took a report of a trailer that was stolen from the 2800 block of County Road 4050. The investigation is pending. On Memorial Day, the 26th, Deputies took a report of a shed burglary in the 1000 block of County Road 6160. The investigation is pending. Deputies took a report on Tuesday the 27th of a stolen Harley-Davidson motorcycle that occurred in the 200 block of County Road 4155. The investigation is pending. Then on Thursday the 29th Deputies took a report for a domestic assault that occurred in the 400 block of Private Lane 117. Suspect information was obtained, and the investigation is ongoing. That same day Deputies took a report for stolen property that occurred in the 18000 block of Highway C. The investigation is pending. The next day, Friday the 30th, Deputies conducted a traffic stop at Highway 72 and Highway H. During the stop, a 32-year-old Salem man was arrested on an outstanding warrant. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 573-729-3241 if you have any information about an ongoing investigation.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) urges drivers to be cautious and give turtles a break! These reptiles are often hit by cars during warmer months but are at special risk this time of year because they are more active. Common turtles spotted on roads include three-toed box turtles, ornate box turtles, red-eared sliders, painted turtles, Mississippi mud turtles, and even snapping turtles. Turtles emerge from their winter burrows and begin to hunt for food and mates during warm and wet conditions, which can lead them to cross roadways, oftentimes resulting in their death. Thousands of box turtles are killed each year by vehicles. Young males make up most of the travelers. They sometimes wander as many as six miles searching for territories and mates. Females are also crossing the roads in search of nesting areas. Turtles are ectothermic, or cold-blooded, and depend on external sources of heat to determine their body temperatures. This is why they are seen on warm asphalt during cool, spring days. Vehicles are one of the leading threats box turtles face in Missouri, and MDC encourages motorists to be cautious and slow down if they see a turtle in the road. If helping a turtle make it safely across, check for traffic and always move the turtle in the direction it is traveling. MDC also urges the public to leave turtles in the wild. Taking a wild animal, whether a turtle of other species, and keeping it as a pet normally ends in a slow death. Turtles have an extremely low survival rate if taken from their original habitat. Leave turtles in the wild, follow the speed limit, and keep your eyes on the road. For more information on Missouri’s turtles, visit the MDC online Field Guide at .mdc.mo.gov.

Join the Graham Cave State Park team for a journey through time as they celebrate World Atlatl Day Saturday, June 7th. From 9:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon, the Missouri Chapter of the World Atlatl Association will be on site to share this ancient throwing tool’s history and use. Predating the bow and arrow, humans first used the atlatl in the Upper Paleolithic Period, and archaeological evidence suggests that it was used around the world. If you have never heard of or used an atlatl, come learn how it’s done! Participants don’t need any prior experience, and there is no fee or registration requirement. Participants should bring a sun hat and wear closed-toe shoes, sunscreen and insect repellent. The event will take place at the Lower Day-Use Area Shelter in Graham Cave State Park. The park is located off I-70, between Kingdom City and St. Louis, on Highway TT two miles west of Highway 161 at exit 170 in Danville. For more information about the event, call Graham Cave State Park at 573-564-3476. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that an accident occurred in Dent County Sunday afternoon at 12:55 on Highway 32 five miles west of Salem. According to the Highway Patrol report a 2001 Chevrolet S10, driven by a 33-year-old Salem woman, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck several trees, and a fence. The woman suffered minor injuries and was transported to Salem Memorial Hospital. The report stated that the woman was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by a private party.

The National Child Passenger Safety Certification Training program is coming to Rolla at the Rolla Fire Department at 1490 East 10th Street on June 10th for those interested in becoming certified. Safe Kids Worldwide is the certifying body and responsible for managing all aspects of the program. They work closely with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Child Passenger Safety Board, and are sponsored by State Farm. Child Passenger Safety technicians and instructors use their considerable knowledge and expertise at a variety of community-based activities, such as child safety seat checks, where parents and caregivers receive education and hands-on assistance. CPS technicians and instructors also keep up-to-date on the latest technical information about child passenger safety through seminars and other continuing education opportunities. All CPS technicians must take and pass the CPS Certification Course and pay a course fee of $95. To learn more about the course and/or about becoming a tech, visit cert.safekids.org. If you are interested in attending the course in Rolla, you must be at least 18 years old at the time the course starts. The standardized child passenger safety technician (CPST) certification course is usually 3-4 days long and combines classroom instruction, hands-on work with car seats and vehicles, and a community safety seat checkup. Attendance is required for the entire course and the ID number to use on your application is MO20250127151.
Echo Bluff State Park will host a festival all about our feathered friends and the native plants that can keep them happy and healthy. The event will begin at the amphitheater with a live bird program presented by the World Bird Sanctuary. On Saturday, June 7th from 11:00 in the mroning until 2:00 in the afternoon, visitors of all ages can participate in a variety of activities related to birds and blossoms. Activities will include arts and crafts, games, bird-watching opportunities, and more. This event is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Pets will not be allowed at the live bird program. Echo Bluff State Park is located at 35244 Echo Bluff Drive, just off Highway 19 south of Salem. You can call 573-751-1224 for more information.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) has proposed increases to hunting, fishing, and trapping permit prices for 2026, receiving initial approval from the Missouri Conservation Commission at its May 16 meeting in Jefferson City. The changes aim to help MDC maintain infrastructure and services while addressing rising costs. The proposal includes significant increases to nonresident deer and turkey hunting permits to align more closely with surrounding states’ pricing. MDC also plans to create new nonresident permits, including a $60 migratory bird permit and a $40 trout permit. MDC Director Jason Sumners noted that resident hunters generally support adjusting nonresident permit prices to be comparable with neighboring states. Missouri currently hosts approximately 43,000 nonresident deer hunters, 10,000 nonresident spring turkey hunters, and 165,000 nonresident anglers annually. Notable proposed increases include resident hunting and fishing combination permits rising from $20.50 to $22.50; nonresident firearm deer permits increasing from $288 to $360; and nonresident spring turkey permits going from $243.50 to $304.50. Most resident permits will see modest increases of $1-2. The price adjustments are based on the Consumer Price Index related to cost-of-living increases from 2008 to 2024. MDC recommends a gradual 50% CPI-based increase over ten years for resident permits, while accelerating increases for nonresident deer and turkey permits. The public comment period for the proposed changes runs from July 2 to July 31, 2025. Comments can be submitted at mdc.mo.gov/contact-engage/public-commenting-opportunities. The Commission will consider final approval at its September 12 meeting, with changes taking effect January 1, 2026, if approved. Permit sales represent approximately 17% of MDC’s annual revenue, with the Conservation Sales Tax providing about 62% and federal reimbursements accounting for 15%. MDC receives no funding from tickets, citations, or the state’s general revenue budget. The average Missourian pays about $24 annually for conservation efforts through the Conservation Sales Tax. For complete details on all proposed permit changes and MDC’s fiscal information, residents can read the MDC Annual Review for Fiscal Year 2024 in the January 2025 issue of the Missouri Conservationist, available online at mdc.mo.gov/magazines/missouri-conservationist/2025-01.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports that a 63-year-old Salem woman drowned Sunday, June 1st, while kayaking on the Current River. According to the report a strong current pushed the woman into a downed tree, causing the kayak to overturn. Other floaters pulled the woman from the water. The patrol stated that the woman was not wearing a life jacket.

An accident occurred Sunday afternoon at 3:00 in Iron County on Highway 21 two miles west of Glover. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2017 Ford Escape, driven by a 70-year-old Salem woman, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, and overturned. The woman suffered moderate injuries and was transported by EMS to Iron County Medical Center. The report stated that the woman was wearing a safety restraint. The Ford was totaled and removed from the scene by Adam’s Custom Auto.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting on Thursday evening in the Old City Hall Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington. After calling the meeting to order, the Board went into executive session to discuss litigation pertaining to the request for utilities by Terry Perkins. During the regular session, the Board announced that water service would be extended to the Perkins property contingent upon voluntary annexation into the City limits. Previous cases in which water service had been provided without annexation following the adoption of this policy, were brought to the Board’s attention, and due to lack of consensus, no resolution was reached and the Board voted to table the matter until the end of June. The Board then discussed nine bills from Bill #3663 to Bill #3671 that establishes a user charge system for the City of Salem’s wastewater system to provide funds needed to pay for all expenses associated with the wastewater system. Customers within City limits will have a base rate of $12.00, and $11.04 per 1,000 gallons. Customers outside of City limits can expect a base rate of $24.00, and $13.84 per 1,000 gallons. The monthly sewer rate for customers without a water meter will be $103.05 for the first unit and each additional unit will be $68.76 thereafter. The next Aldermen meeting is scheduled for June 10th, and is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse.  In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said men will be installing crossover pipes in the Phillips Subdivision and also doing drainage work. Green said grading was going to be done in the Turtle area and on county road 5390. He also said pipes would be installed on county road 6100 and rock would be hauled where needed. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said rock would be added and grading would be done on Dent County Road 4060 as well as on county roads 5333 and 5340 in Boss. Williams indicated grading was going to be done on Dent County Road 2303 and brush cut on county road 6150. Dent County Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson had nothing to report. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reiterate her request for any business that has a liquor license in the county, will need to have the license request submitted to the county clerk’s office by June 30th. If anyone has questions, please call the clerk’s office at 573-729-4144. Van Kitchens and Tyler Rensch from Attentive Management Company were in attendance to reveal to the commissioners what they had calculated the savings the county could have by going with their plan to utilize the Section 125 savings that provides benefits to county employers and provides FICA tax savings to the commissioners. They said each employee would have an average of about $150 per month to use for benefits that many of the employees already pay out of their checks which would come to about $13,569 per month. The Section 125 of the ACA Act allows employers to deduct those costs to provide additional benefits to employees before taxes, which would lower the FICA Tax liability for the county and keep the take home pay for the employee about the same or it could increase slightly. The total savings would be about $48,000 net to the county after their fee, and that would be divided among the different funds that have payroll. There was some concern about the reduction in Social Security benefits with this program, but Kitchens said that over time, the difference is minimal. It would also not affect the employees tax return much as their withholding can be what the employee wishes per paycheck. Commissioner Green wanted to talk with the other counties and businesses that have used this program before going any further, and Kitchens and Rensch said they would get them a list of references to contact. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams brought in the CART Tax money received in May and said the county took in $87,096.19 which is $5,502.42 over last May, and year-to-date, the CART tax receipts are up $30,767.01. The commission then opened bids to sell the gazebo in the front yard of the courthouse. They received two bids: on from Eli Trower and one from Healthy Dent County, but they rejected both bids. They will get bids to repair the gazebo and keep it on the courthouse lawn. Mike Smith from Hope Construction was in to report on the leak in the annex building. He said there is hail damage to the brick wall next door to the annex which is causing much of the problem and until that is corrected, he is limited in what he feels he can do without wasting the county’s money. They did ask him to do a temporary dry seal until he can contact the insurance company and find out what they will do about the problem. The next meeting of the commissioners will be Thursday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and is open to the public.

Agingbest wants to see every person live the best life possible. To help our community do this they are asking for volunteers. There are many volunteer opportunities here are a few; meal delivery to homebound clients, lawn care, technology education assistance, and pet care assistance. Call 800-369-5211 to volunteer in one of the 19 counties in Central Missouri.

An accident occurred Saturday morning around 10:50 in Crawford County on Old Route 66 East of Grotemac Road. According to the highway patrol report a 2009 Yamaha XV1900 driven by a 47-year-old male from Rolla was travelling eastbound and was struck by a deer. The driver lost control, ejecting the driver and passenger a 15-year-old male juvenile from Rolla. The juvenile suffered serious injuries and was transported by North Crawford Ambulance to Children’s Hospital St. Louis. The adult male also suffered serious injuries and was transported to Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan by Missouri Baptist Ambulance. He was later transferred to Mercy Hospital Washington. Both were wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Yamaha sustained moderate damage and was secured roadside for private tow.

You’re invited to attend the next Salem and Dent County meeting of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” this afternoon, June 2nd, starting at 5:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory in the Rotary Room! The Dent County Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace is a 501c3 non-profit that provides a new, free bed to children in need in our community who do not have a bed between the ages of 3 and 17. Mark your calendars and please join them, and new volunteers are welcome!! If you are not able to help physically, donations of new bedding are always welcome to help provide a good night’s sleep to the area children. Monetary donations are also accepted. Please make checks payable to Sleep in Heavenly Peace and designate the MO-DENT County Chapter. If you have questions, please contact Patti McKeown at 703-964-6495 or e-mail her at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a public hearing for public comments regarding sewer rates and changes. The meeting was held Tuesday evening at 6:00, at the Old City Hall Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington St. Several citizens approached the podium referencing an email that was sent to members of the Board, prior to the meeting with questions from members of the community. The Board of Aldermen clarified that the public hearing was to listen to comments or concerns from citizens, and that they will not be answering any questions. Though, Alderman Letchworth did state that someone will take the time to reply to the email that was sent, at a later time. With no other comments from the public, the meeting adjourned to executive session before reconvening for their regular meeting.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen convened their regular meeting Tuesday evening following a public hearing and executive session. After approving the consent agenda, the Board approved a bid from Pierce Asphalt LLC in the amount of $113,664.00 for hot mix asphalt to be used to pave and repair East Coffman, West 1st Street, and South Oak Street, including a 2-inch overlay. This project will be paid for out of the Special Street Fund. The Board also approved a bid from Key Equipment in St. Louis for $9,433.77 to repair the City’s 11-year-old street sweeper, which has been non-operational for several weeks. During new business, the Board voted to approve Ordinance No. 3654 amending the water rates; Alderwoman Cathy Dent dissented. The base rate for customers within city limits will increase from $6.00 to $8.00, with the rate per 1,000 gallons rising from $5.39 to $7.50. Customers outside of city limits will see the base rate increase from $12.00 to $16.00, with the volume rate per 1,000 gallons rising from $6.78 to $9.49. Commercial manufacturers averaging over 350,000 gallons will have a base rate of $8.00 and a volume rate of $4.86 per 1,000 gallons.The request for utilities by Terry Perkins was tabled until a meeting can be had with the City’s attorney, James Weber. The Firework Committee’s request to close the City park to drive-through traffic on the Fourth of July, allowing access only to pedestrians and vendors, was approved unanimously.The Board approved Bills 3654 – 3657 all regarding amending sections of the utility policy to remain in line with the current policy, and correct clerical errors and typos. Before the reports by city official’s the Board heard the first readings of Bills 3662 – 3671 regarding Sewer Rate Codes 710.290-710.430 , and the repeal of section 700.230. During the reports of city officials, Public Works Director Steve Paine stated that the Wastewater Treatment Plant continues to prepare for construction. The department is also working on replacing street lights, completing submitted work orders, and conducting street painting projects as weather permits. City Administrator Sally Burbridge encouraged citizens to sign up for the City’s text blast services but noted that message delivery is based on the phone number’s originating area code. As a result, phone numbers originating in different time zones will receive messages at different times than those originating in Central Standard Time. The next regular meeting of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be held on June 10th and is open to the public.