Local News

In the interest of not issuing messages that contradict community health experts the City of Salem and Dent County have been coordinating efforts with the Dent County Health Center in response to COVID-19. Salem Mayor Brad Nash and Dent County Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles have been meeting with Dent County Health Center Administrator Kendra Mobray and other stakeholders on a regular basis since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. As of Thursday, April 2nd at noon, there have been no reports of positive cases in Dent County. Nash, Skiles, and Mobray wanted to commend the public and local businesses for following the guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Governor Parson. While some cities and counties in Missouri are adopting stay at home orders, officials from Dent County, Salem, and Bunker do not feel issuing a stay at home order is deemed appropriate at this time. If a stay at home order is issued in the future, the public should be aware that grocery stores and other essential businesses will remain open. Questions about individual health concerns should be directed to your health care provider but questions regarding the public aspect of COVID-19 can be directed to the Dent County Health Center. Call 573-729-3106 or e-mail questions to dentcountymocovid19@gmail.com.

Friday morning at about 8:30, Dent County Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles along with Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge will be on KSMO Radio AM 1340 and online at ksmoradio.com to discuss the economic stimulus package passed by Congress last week known as the CARES Act. Burbridge will discuss many of the aspects of the act that can help local business owners including the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program and Economic Injury Disaster Grant Program, the Payroll Protection Program Loans and the Small Business Debt Relief Program. Burbridge will provide data for those who may be interested in these programs and where they need to go to get more information.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has released the following reports for March 26th and 27th. On Thursday, the 26th, a Deputy traveled to an apartment on Odom Drive to serve an arrest warrant. During the course of the incident, a 22- year-old Salem man was arrested for an active warrant through Dent County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and incarcerated. Then on Friday, the 27th, a deputy traveled to a residence in the 7000 block of Highway 68 for a report of a disturbance between a man and woman. During the course of the incident, a 34-year-old Salem man was arrested for an active warrant through Gasconade County. The man was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office where he later posted bond and was released. Also on the 27th a deputy traveled to a residence in the 200 block of Route H for the report of a domestic dispute. During the course of the incident, a 39-year-old Salem woman was arrested for an active warrant through Probation and Parole. The woman was transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office Jail and incarcerated. If you have information regarding any investigation, contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at 729-3241.

Remember, the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Conservation Commission have temporarily waived permit requirements for sport fishing and daily trout tags for Missouri residents and nonresidents whose fishing privileges are not otherwise suspended. The waiver of needing a permit or trout tag to fish will run through April 15. Seasons, methods, and limits still apply and will be enforced. The Department of Conservation continues to emphasize that it is still critical for everyone to continue to heed all recommendations for physical distancing, avoiding overcrowding, hand-washing, and other public-health measures while fishing.

An accident happened in Phelps County Thursday afternoon at 12:50 on Highway 72 at Phelps County Road 5420. According to the highway patrol report, a 2003 Ford Escape driven westbound by 21-year old Misty Sprow of Rolla, was slowing to make a left hand turn when the Ford was struck from behind by a 2007 Chevy Malibu driven westbound by 21-year old Samantha Burghardt of Rolla. The collision caused the Escape to travel off the right side of the roadway. The Chevy continued across the center line where it collided with a 2010 Dodge Ram driven eastbound by 56-year old John Russell of Salem. Burghardt suffered serious injuries and was transported by EMS to Phelps Health in Rolla. Suffering minor injuries were John Russell of Salem as well as an occupant in the Ram, 59-year old Becky Russell of Salem. They were both taken by the EMS to Phelps Health in Rolla. The Chevy Malibu and the Dodge Ram were both totaled in the accident while the Ford sustained moderate damages. The Ford and the Chevy were removed from the scene by Dishman’s Towing while Whitaker’s Towing removed the Dodge Ram. Everyone except Burkhardt was wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident.

The Salem Public Library will be closed until further notice in the best interests of patrons and staff because of the current national health emergency. Director Glenda Wofford said the decision was based on the recommendations of the White House and Missouri governor’s office with the best advice from federal, state, and local public health officials. Updates will be posted on the library’s Facebook and Instagram pages. Patrons are encouraged to access the virtual library at salempubliclibrary.net. Library staff will work throughout the closure. Please call 729-4331 with any questions you may have.

The Salem License Bureau office in the Crossroads Shopping Center will be closing the office from Monday, April 6th through Friday April 17th. At this time, they plan to re-open the office on Monday April 20th.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held a special meeting Monday evening at the District Administrative Boardroom. The board amended the agenda to include a closed session to discuss real estate and personnel. The board approved leaving the SECE Insurance Consortium that provided health insurance for the Salem R-80 School District through June 30th. The board also approved accepting a bid from United Health Care for health insurance for the 2020-2021 school year pending a bid from a local agent. In closed session the board approved purchasing the house and land located at 1407 West Rolla Road adjacent to the R-80 Administrative Central Office from Town and Country bank for $51,100. The house and land were paid using an donation from the Judson Young Foundation that came to $52,600. Also in closed session, the board approved employing Dr. Herman Blau as the next principal at William Lynch Elementary as well as the Federal Programs Coordinator. With no other business at hand, the meeting was then adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for March 22nd and 24th. On Sunday night, March 22nd, at approximately 10:30, an officer responded to the 700 block of south Orchard Street after hearing of a pursuit involving a car with license plates that checked back to this address. Contact was made with the owner of the vehicle and it was found that the vehicle had been taken from the residence. The vehicle was listed into MULES as stolen. On Monday, March 23rd, the vehicle was found abandoned in Licking and returned to the owner. The incident is still under investigation. Finally on Tuesday morning, March 24th, at approximately 11:55, an officer was dispatched to the 300 block of north Pershing for a report of a stolen UTV. It was reported that the UTV was taken from the residence at an unknown time. The UTV is described as a 2014 red and black Polaris Ranger. This incident is still under investigation. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding an investigation.

Out of an abundance for caution and in response to recent events, Missouri State Parks will modify operations at five state parks to address overcrowding and concerns regarding public safety. The modifications, including the temporary closure of four of Missouri’s state parks and partial closure of one additional park, go into effect at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 2nd, and are scheduled to continue until April 30th. Carol Comer, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, said we’re continuing to evaluate the situation and make adjustments to operations as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. As conditions and recommendations change, we will make additional closures as needed. Before heading out to a state park, we encourage our citizens to check mostateparks.com for advisory updates and the latest actions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In the KSMO listening area the operation modifications will include Elephant Rocks State Park. Missouri State Parks encourages those who visit a park to carry hand sanitizer, soap, wipes and drinking water as services may be limited. In addition, please be considerate of others and the Missouri State Parks staff who continue to serve the public. If you have any questions, please contact Missouri State Parks at moparks@dnr.mo.gov. For the latest updates on Missouri State Parks’ response to COVID-19, visit mostateparks.com/response.

While it’s important to know how to keep yourself and your family safe from physical harm during severe weather events, preparation for these weather emergencies doesn’t end there. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance wants consumers to know the importance of making sure they’re adequately covered BEFORE a severe weather event occurs. Although you may already have a homeowners or renters insurance policy, make sure you know exactly what it covers. If you don’t own a policy, arrange to purchase one as soon as possible in order to protect yourself and your family from a devastating loss. Waiting until a storm arrives may be too late to protect your home and belongings. It’s important to review your policy each year to make sure your coverage is adequate. It’s easy to forget about important purchases or additions you’ve made to your home and your current level of coverage may not be enough to replace what you own. And, not all policies and levels of coverage are equal – in fact, they vary greatly. While one policy may cover full replacement of a damaged roof, another policy may depreciate the coverage based on the age of the roof. Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners policies. If you live in an area prone to flooding, you will need to purchase a federal flood insurance policy through your agent to cover flood damage. Consumers should do this as early as possible, as there is typically a 30-day waiting period from the date of purchase before a policy goes into effect. Being prepared will make it easier for you to file a claim following a severe weather event. Complete a detailed inventory of your household furnishings and take photos of each room in your home. Make lists of other valuables and equipment that don’t appear in the photos. Keep these materials in a safe place outside your home, such as a safe deposit box. The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance provides more severe weather resources and tips for consumers on their website.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell indicated that materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 5170, 5380, 5450 and 6580. Purcell stated brush would be cut on county road 6280. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 2240, 2360 and 4437 while brush would be cut on county road 2380. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he has attended a number of COVID-19 updates and there are still no positives in Dent County. He wanted to thank folks for continuing to practice social distancing and he also wanted to remind people that many food establishments are still open providing services, be it delivery or carry out, and to support them whenever possible if you can. Remember many other local businesses are still providing their services everyday and if you are not sure they are open to please contact them by phone. Continuing to support local business during this time may be vital to their very existence in the future. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said absentee voting will continue to June 1st and that May 20th will be the last day to ask to mail out a ballot. The Road and Bridge Department took bids for 2,000 gallons of unleaded gasoline and the low bud came in from County Fuels at 98 cents per gallon. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams was in with the CART money receipts for this month. She said the county received $50,168.39 and that was down $1,690.65 from the March receipt of $51,859.04. She said year-to-date, the county is down $104.81. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday, April 6th at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Park and Recreation Department will hold a Park Board meeting tonight at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center@ The Armory. The meeting will be open to the public through live streaming on the KSMO Radio website. Social Distancing will be enforced at the meeting. After the Roll Call and approval of the agenda, the board will review the previous meeting minutes. Park and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois will then give her report before the board discusses the Spring Soccer Program and COVID-19. Following that discussion, the Park Board will discuss the Spring Baseball, T-Ball and Softball League signups and schedules that will include the Opening Day Festivities and possible late start due to the State of Emergency with the coronavirus. The board will hear from Dubois about early pool pass and pool party sales as well as pavilion rentals. Sometime during the meeting, the board will be given a tour of the new Salem Community Center@The Armory Gym shell by Healthy Dent County’s Sherry Lea. After hearing any other business, the meeting will be adjourned. The Salem Park Board meeting will be open to the public through a live stream through the KSMO Radio website at ksmoradio.com.

A two vehicle accident happened Saturday afternoon around 2:25 in Crawford County on Highway 8 about five miles west of Steelville. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2008 Toyota Corolla being driven by 23-year old Stephanie Matthes of Rolla was eastbound when the Toyota crossed the center line of the roadway and struck a 2013 Toyota Venza driven by 55-year old David Woods of Potosi. Matthes suffered serious injuries and was transported by Air Evac to Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Woods and a passenger, 52-year old Shelly Woods also of Potosi, both suffered minor injuries and declined medical treatment at the scene. Both occupants of the Woods vehicle were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident while Matthes was not. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

A one vehicle accident happened early Monday morning shortly after midnight in Phelps County on Phelps County Road 1140 about one mile east of Route B. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2004 Ford truck being driven by 23- year old Michael Christenson of St. James was traveling east when the Ford went off the left side of the roadway striking several trees and a fence before overturning. Christianson, who was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident, suffered minor injuries and was transported by a private vehicle to Phelps Health in Rolla. The Ford was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing.

With so many Missourians stuck at home, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is offering teachers, parents, students, and others its free Discover Nature Schools (DNS) nature-based curriculum for pre-kindergarten through high school online. Find Discover Nature Schools information and curriculum for all age groups online at nature.mdc.mo.gov and then put in discover nature in the search box. With the current public-health emergency caused by the coronavirus (COVID-19), MDC reminds people to continue to heed recommendations for hand washing, social distancing, and all other public-health measures during outdoor activities.

The Salem Area Arts Council announces that artwork that was displayed in Art Across the Ages needs to be picked up as soon as possible. While they don’t know if the next event is going to occur, they need to get their stuff out just in case. Access to the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center can be arranged by contacting Libby Sanders. Text or call her at 573-247-0279. Thanks to all who participated! If you need information, please contact (573) 247-0279 or e-mail saac@embarqmail.com.

The Salem Board of Aldermen met at the city hall auditorium for a special meeting Monday afternoon at 5:00. At the meeting, the board approved Resolution 6-2020 that authorized the non-renewal of the city being under contract with the Midwest Public Risk of Missouri for insurance coverage for property and liability as a member municipality with MPR Missouri. They also discussed a problem with waste water treatment plant. Jeff Medows from archer-Elgin Engineering was on a conference call to discuss the problems with the RAS WAS pump station between secondary clarifiers #2 and #3 and that it is no longer working properly. The replacement of the pump station was scheduled for the second phase of the waste water treatment facility update as the city is currently in Phases 1A and 1B. Medows said by having to replace the pump now would not alter the plan for Phase 2 except it was not scheduled to begin until 2022 into 2023. The approximate cost for this replacement would be about $480,000. The city could lease a pump for a short duration ffor about $3,500 a month but it would not provide the same flow which could cause more problems. City Administrator Ray Walden said there is money available to make the repair now as part of Phase 1 using the current contractor with a change order needed. The board will have to make a decision on this at their next meeting on Monday, March 6th. The meeting was then adjourned.

Salem Mayor Brad Nash has called for a special meeting of the Board of Alderman for tonight at 5:00 in the City Hall Auditorium the purpose of which is the introduction and reading of Resolution #6-2020, a resolution by the Board of Alderman of the city of Salem authorizing the non-renewal of Midwest Public Risk of Missouri Insurance Policy. City Administrator Ray Walden will present a change order for WWTF Phase 1B. The meeting has been moved to the Auditorium to allow for social distancing at the meeting. The meeting will also be live streamed on the KSMO Radio website at ksmoradio.com.

The City of Salem Planning & Zoning Board of Commissioners Chairman Gary Brown has called a Planning and Zoning Commission public meeting to hear a request for a waiver to allow parking in the 30-foot front setback of new development which includes lots 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 of the South Aire Annex. This subdivision of land consists of fourteen (14) lots and being part of lot two of the Southwest Quarter of Section Nineteen (19), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Five (5) West, in Dent County with the owner being Central MO Investments, LLC. The meeting at the City Hall Council Chambers at 202 North Washington begins at 6:00 PM and it is open to the public. It will also be live streamed on the KSMO Radio website at ksmoradio.com.

Salem R-80 Schools Superintendent John McCulloch has announced that starting THIS MORNING, the school will be distributing breakfasts and lunches for pickup at a number of locations. In town meals can be picked up at Salem Upper Elementary at 1601 Doss Road from 10:30 until 12:00. This location is primarily for those living south of Highway 32/72 and those that live south of the city limits. The second in town location will be the US Foods Parking lot at 502 South Carty Street from 10:30 to 10:50 for those living north of 32/72 and east of Highway 19. The final in town location will be the Southwest Baptist University at 501 South Grand from 11:00 until 11:20 for those that live north of Highway 32/72 and west of Highway 19, as well as those living west and north outside the city limits. Out of town locations will include Junction of P Highway and Dent County Road 5070 from 10:30 until 10:50. This location is primarily for those living on P Highway and the surrounding county roads. The second out of town location will be the Junction of Highway 32/72 and Dent County Road 4235, near the old candy striped store, from 11:00 until 11:20 for those living east on Highway 32/72 and the surrounding county roads that are between Route P and Route W. The final out of town location will be at the Junction of Highway 32/72 and Highway W from 11:30 until 11:50. This location is mainly for those living east on Highway 32/72 past Highway W, as well as those living on Highway W and the surrounding county roads. Superintendent McCulloch indicated this is being done on a trial and error basis and is subject to change based on feedback from the locations.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways is announcing additional modifications to operations to support federal, state, and local efforts to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). As of this past Friday, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways will offer limited services outside those that support visitor or resource protection. The following facilities are now closed: All designated campgrounds and campsites, all shower houses, picnic pavilions and visitor contact stations. The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners at Ozark National Scenic Riverways are our number one priority. With this in mind, some outdoor areas where it would be extremely difficult to maintain safe social distance will be closed. These include the spring branch trail at Alley Spring, the spring branch trail at Big Spring, and the staircase into Devils Well. In order to provide some restroom facilities for visitors in outdoor spaces and at key river access points in our immediate area, several facilities will remain open as long as they can be safely maintained in accordance with the latest health guidance. These areas include the Baptist Camp vault toilet, the Akers contact station restroom, the Akers river access vault toilet, the Devils Well vault toilet, the Pulltite contact station restroom only (no showers), the Carr’s Store restroom and the Round Spring day use area restroom. The National Park Service encourages people who choose to visit the Ozark National Scenic Riverways during this pandemic to adhere to guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state and local public health authorities to protect visitors and employees. As services are limited, visitors are urged to continue to practice the “Leave No Trace” principles, including pack-in and pack-out, to keep outdoor spaces safe and healthy. Social distancing is strongly encouraged even in outdoor spaces. For up-to-date information about operations at Ozark National Scenic Riverways, please visit the park website at www.nps.gov/ozar, or @ozarkriverways on Facebook. You can also call (573) 323-4236 ext. 0, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days per week.

The Salem Police Department has released reports for March 14th through the 20th. On Saturday afternoon the 14th at approximately 1206 an officer was dispatched to the 100 block of south Oak Street for a report of a domestic disturbance. It was reported that a physical altercation had taken place between a boyfriend and girlfriend that reside together. As a result of the investigation, a 39-year-old Salem man was arrested and issued a summons to appear in court. Then on Thursday evening, March 19th, at approximately 7:05, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a shoplifter. It was reported that a juvenile female had been observed by Wal-Mart staff stealing items from the store. Contact was made with the juvenile female of Salem. As a result of the investigation, the juvenile was detained, and this report will be forwarded to the Dent County Juvenile Office for further investigation. Finally, on Sunday afternoon, the 20th of March, at approximately 12:43, an officer was contacted at the Salem Police Department for a report of fraudulent use of a credit or debit device. It was reported that $196.39 worth of transactions were made using the victim’s credit or debit card without authorization. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigations.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital is now re-routing all Outpatient patients and patient visitors to the North front entrance at the circle drive. Those doors will be open from 7:00 in the morning until 7:00 in the evening, Monday through Friday. Only individuals that need EMERGENCY medical attention should enter through the Emergency/ER entrance. For all other hospital business, please enter through the north entrance. As a reminder, any individuals experiencing cough, shortness of breath, fever AND have had contact with a CONFIRMED case of COVID-19, should contact their health care provider or the hospital Emergency Department by PHONE. Individuals will be asked to supply information about their symptoms, when and how they had contact with a confirmed case. Individuals with COVID-19 symptoms AND that have had contact with an individual with COVID-19, should NOT arrive at a Health Care Provider or Emergency Room without contacting their provider or the emergency room ahead of time so they can receive instructions on where to go. The health care provider may either suggest testing via a commercial lab or involve public health resources. Those individuals should also practice Social Distancing to avoid the spread of any illness to family, friends and neighbors. There are NO medications specifically approved for COVID-19. Most people with mild coronavirus illness will recover on their own by drinking plenty of fluids, resting, and taking pain and fever medications. Also, the Salem Memorial District Hospital has reported that due to the current COVID-19 guidelines, SMDH Family Medicine will be adjusting their clinic hours effective Monday, March 30th. The clinic hours will be Monday through Friday from 8:00 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening. To schedule an appointment, please call 573-729-8000. They will continue to offer SAME DAY appointments and will re-evaluate the operating hours as COVID-19 guidelines change.

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks is now accepting applications for the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund Grant Program. This assistance is targeted for nonprofits serving vulnerable citizens affected by the coronavirus outbreak across the CFO’s 58-county service region of central and southern Missouri. The CFO serves communities within the state of Missouri south of the Missouri River and outside the metro areas of St. Louis, Kansas City and Jefferson City. Agencies may apply for up to $25,000 in funding. Agency partnerships working in a collective impact model of at least three collaborating organizations may apply for up to $40,000. Lead applicant agencies must be nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organizations, government entities, school districts or tax-exempt faith-based organizations. Agencies and agency partnerships able to provide a plan for generating matching dollars as a component of their application will receive preference in the grant making process. Matching dollars do not have to be raised in advance as long as a well-formed plan is established to acquire those matching funds. Agencies can begin the application process at the website cfozarks.org/applyforgrants. This grant program will remain open as long as funding is available throughout the COVID-19 recovery process. Applications will be reviewed by a committee comprised of community volunteers and CFO staff representatives. For questions regarding the application or the online system, contact Bridget Dierks, Vice President of Programs, at (417) 864-6199. For those groups that are interested in applying, contact Mary Beth Cook from the Dent County Community Foundation and she will be more than happy to help. You can e-mail her at mbcook16@gmail.com or call her at 573-453-6091.

The Missouri Department of Conservation George O. White State Forest Nursery near Licking is offering residents a variety of low-cost native tree and shrub seedlings for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, and wildlife food and cover. Orders are being accepted through April 15th. The Department of Conservation has extended the seedling shipping timeframe through the end of May. According to MDC, the shipping season typically winds down in early May after nursery staff have shipped millions of seedlings to schools, landowners, and MDC staff for planting all over the state. Since the precautionary measures in place to decrease the spread of COVID-19, the nursery has been closed to the public and has plenty of seedlings left. Order seedlings online at mdc.mo.gov/seedlings, or fax an order form to 573-674-4047. Contact the nursery at 674-3229 or email StateForestNursery@mdc.mo.gov for an order form. Virtual Tours of the nursery are available at short.mdc.mo.gov/Zey.

Effective Wednesday, the Dent County Extension Office has been closed by the University of Missouri. Soil testing forms are available on the 2nd floor of the Judicial Building outside the Extension Office. You can still submit soil tests, but you will have to send them directly to the University of Missouri Lab. You can find out how to submit soil test by going to the University of Missouri Extension Website. If you need help have questions, call 729-3196.

The Missouri Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) would like to remind producers of the program sign-up deadlines to be considered for Fiscal Year 2020 funding. The Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP) application deadline is March 30th, 2020; the Environmental Quality Incentive Program-Regional Conservation Partnership Program (EQIP-RCPP) application deadline is also March 30th, 2020; and the Conservation Stewardship Program-Classic (CSP-Classic) application deadline is June 1st, 2020. Producers may submit a signed and dated application via the mail, fax, scan, email, or submit through the agency approved Client-Gateway at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov website. You may also submit application requests to your local NRCS office through telephone, email or letter received by the sign-up cut-off date listed above. NRCS will follow-up to obtain applicant signature’s prior the application being ranked. If an application is not signed and returned to the local NRCS office prior to ranking, the application will be considered invalid. For more information contact the NRCS office in Rolla at 364-2088 or in Houston at 417-967-2028.

At the special meeting of the Salem Board of Aldermen held on Monday, City of Salem Mayor Brad Nash declared a State of Emergency in response to COVID-19. Nash stated the proclamation will help expedite our emergency response efforts and allow the city to procure needed resources more easily and adapt as necessary in our ongoing efforts to protect public health and safety. This declaration will remain in place for sixty days or until the Board of Aldermen takes other action, whichever comes first. Nash said the city appreciates the efforts of the many businesses that have already altered their operations to help in our community’s efforts to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Under the Emergency Declaration in response to COVID-19, effective immediately the City of Salem will temporarily suspend utility penalties and shut-offs for non-payment. The City of Salem offers payment plans for utility customers facing challenges. Call the Utility Office at (573) 729-4117 for more information and give us a chance to help. The city is closing all restrooms, playgrounds and pavilions at city parks. While parks will remain open, the public should adhere to the 6-foot personal space guideline between non-family members. The City has also suspended scheduled events at all City facilities with ten (10) or more expected people including the Salem Community Center @ the Armory and Old City Hall. The lobby at the city administrative offices is currently closed in response to the coronavirus. Utility customers should use the drive-through or drop box for utility payments or call (573) 729-4117 to pay by phone. To access other City services call (573) 729-4811 or visit the City’s Facebook page. They also encourage residents to call, text or e-mail your neighbors to check on their well-being. The City of Salem will continue to work in coordination with our partner agencies, as well as the state and federal government, to monitor this evolving situation and to ensure our response actions are based on the latest facts. The City will communicate updates to the Salem community as the situation changes and as we make additional decisions regarding our local response. According to the CDC, the most effective ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to practice preventative hygiene and follow social distancing recommendations of staying home when possible and maintaining six foot of personal space when you do go out. Residents should stay informed and ensure they are receiving information from reliable sources such as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). the Dent County Health Center and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. They have a 24/7 phone hotline for the public or providers to receive information or guidance related to COVID-19. The hotline number is (877) 435-8411.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will hold a special meeting Monday, March 30th at 6:00 to consider a health insurance carrier at the district administrative offices.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the Missouri Conservation Commission announce they are temporarily waiving permit requirements for sport fishing and daily trout tags for Missouri residents and nonresidents whose fishing privileges are not otherwise suspended. The waiver of needing a permit or trout tag to fish will run from Friday, March 27th through April 15th. The Missouri Department of Conservation will reassess the situation at that point. All season dates and limits will continue to apply and be enforced. Three of Missouri’s public trout parks remain open for day use and fishing during that time. Those state parks include Bennett Spring State Park in Lebanon, Montauk State Park near Salem, and Roaring River State Park near Cassville. They are operated by Missouri State Parks under the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). MDC manages the trout hatcheries at these locations. To reduce possible increased social congregation, the Department of Conservation will suspend daily trout stocking at all trout parks starting Friday and has suspended other fish stocking in waters around the state until further notice. The James Foundation announced it has closed Maramec Spring Park in St. James to the public for trout fishing and all other activities until further notice. Maramec Spring Park is owned and operated by the James Foundation. MDC manages the trout hatchery at Maramec Spring Park. For more information, visit maramecspringpark.com. Conservation makes Missouri a great place to fish and Missouri has more than a million acres of surface water with most of it providing 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. To get more information on Missouri fishing, go to huntfish.mdc.mo.gov. The Department of Conservation reminds everyone to continue to wash your hands and use other public-health measures while fishing and during other outdoor activities, including maintaining at least six feet of distance between all individuals who are not family members.

The Doe Run Company is pleased to announce the promotion of Denise Callahan to director of IT, effective April 1st. In her new role, Callahan will lead the implementation and management of the company’s information technology systems and project management office (PMO), as well as manage digital transformation initiatives. Callahan has more than 25 years of experience managing projects and leading IT organizations. During her 15-year tenure with Doe Run, she served as director of PMO, analytics and strategic planning. In this role, she was responsible for development and execution of the enterprise-wide strategy through portfolio, program and project management. In 2018, the Doe Run PMO was selected as the United States representative for the 2018 PMO Global Awards and was the runner-up for the 2010 PMO of the Year Award. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information technology from Missouri State University and a master’s degree in information technology from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. She is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP).

In an effort to help ease the financial burden and provide continued connectivity for customers impacted by coronavirus, Fidelity Communications today announced that effective immediately, it will be waiving late fees and offering payment deferrals for its customers for the next 60 days. Julie Laulis, President and CEO says they understand that their customers rely on their Internet service to stay connected to family, work, school and information, and they’re are committed to ensuring they receive the assistance they need during this time. The company plans to reassess after 30 days based on the continued impact and evolving nature of the virus. Customers with questions can call 800-392-8070 for more information.

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting Monday night at the City Hall Council Chambers. Alderwoman Rachel Hinderliter was unable to attend the meeting due to her work. The board heard Bill #3442 that created an ordinance repealing Ordinance #3438 that amends Chapter 515 Electricity, amended Chapter 705 for Water Regulations and amended Chapter 710 Sewers of the municipal code of the City of Salem pertaining to the prompt payment discount and the delayed payment penalty. The board also approved Bill #3443 that created an ordinance authorizing the Mayor of Salem to make the Declaration of Emergency for the city due to the coronavirus and authorizing temporary protocols and practices for the city during the State of Emergency. The mayor then signed the proclamation that explained the “State of Emergency” for the City of Salem. This proclamation by the city will help the citizens out as it prohibits the city from disconnecting anyone’s utilities for non-payment and it will also allow the city to waive late fees for the duration of the State of Emergency. The board also approved Bill #3444 that created an ordinance adding the new provisions relating to the Emergency Employee Sick Leave Act and the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act according to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. The board, after a few corrections, passed Resolution #5-2020, a resolution adopting a new policy to help utility customers qualify for a payment plan to replace the previous payment plan adopted by Resolution #1-2018 for the City of Salem. With no further business at hand, the meeting was adjourned.

The Salem Police Department has released a number of reports. On March 4th at about 5:11 in the afternoon, an officer responded to the 200 block of Rolla Road in an attempt to contact a female who had an active arrest warrant. As a result, contact was made, and a 27-year-oldwoman was arrested on an active City of Salem Warrant. The female was incarcerated at the Dent County Jail. The next night at 11:44, an officer conducted a traffic stop at the intersection of Route J and Dilworth Street. As a result of the traffic stop the driver, a 23-year-old Salem male was found to have an active traffic warrant for his arrest. He was able to post bond and was released. On Friday afternoon, March 6th near 2:30, an officer was dispatched to transport a 79-year-old Salem man to Sullivan for a 96-hour commitment. On Sunday, March 8th at approximately 3:54 in the afternoon, an officer responded to the 400 block of East First Street to attempt to contact a subject with an active arrest warrant. Contact was made with a 23-year-old Salem male who had an active arrest warrant from the Rolla Police Department. The man was arrested and transported to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office for incarceration awaiting extradition by Rolla PD. On Monday, March the 9th near noon, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for a report of a shoplifter. The officer was informed that a female had stolen $211.71 worth of merchandise and left walking west. A short investigation was conducted and as a result a 32-year-old homeless female was arrested and issued summons to appear in court. Then on Thursday afternoon, March 12th at about 3:00, an officer was dispatched to Wal-Mart for another report of a shoplifter. The officer was informed that a female had stolen $27.94 worth of merchandise. As a result of the investigation, a 37-year-old Salem woman was arrested and issued summons to appear in court. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Out of an abundance of caution and in reaction to the presence of COVID-19 in Missouri, Missouri State Parks will temporarily close all campgrounds and lodging, effective this Friday, March 27, through Thursday, April 30. This includes campgrounds, park-run lodging and concessionaire-run lodging. Missouri State Parks will remain open to the public, including day-use areas, boat ramps and trails. All fees associated with camping and park-run lodging reservations, including reservation, cancellation and modification fees, beginning the night of Friday, March 27, through the night of Thursday, April 30, will be refunded. Park staff will inform guests already in the campgrounds of this change and will work with them to adjust their reservations and on any needed refunds. The call center will contact campers with reservations who have yet to arrive. If you have an existing reservation at a state park or historic site campground or park-run lodging, please call the Reservation Call Center at 1-877-422-6766. The call center is open daily 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For an existing reservation with concessionaire lodging at Montauk State Park or Echo Bluff State Park, please contact them directly. The number at Montauk is 573-548-2434 and the number at Echo Bluff is 844-322-3246.

The City of Salem Planning & Zoning Board of Commissioners Chairman Gary Brown has called a Planning and Zoning Commission public meeting to hear a request for a waiver to allow parking in the 30-foot front setback of new development which includes lots 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 & 11 of the South Aire Annex. This subdivision of land consists of fourteen (14) lots and being part of lot two of the Southwest Quarter of Section Nineteen (19), Township Thirty-four (34) North, Range Five (5) West, in Dent County, Missouri, owner Central MO Investments, LLC. The meeting at the City Hall Council Chambers at 202 North Washington begins at 6:00 PM on Monday, March 30th and it is open to the public.

A two vehicle accident happened just before 2:00 Sunday afternoon in Maries County on Highway 63 about a mile north of Vienna. The report from the highway patrol states that a 2019 Chevrolet Sonic being driven by 52-year old Sheila Eaves of St. James, was stopped in the southbound lane waiting to make a left turn and was struck from behind by a 2011 Chevy Cruze being driven by 18-year old William Patterson of Vienna. A passenger in the Sonic, 46-year old Charles Eaves, also of St. James suffered minor injuries and was transported by Maries Osage ambulance to Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City. Both vehicles sustained moderate damage and were secured in a private lot.

The Dent County Commissioners on Monday decided to provide only limited access to the courthouse as the front and rear doors will be closed until further notice. The office holders are asking that you conduct your business by phone, mail or e-mail. If you want an ATV or UTV permit, that information can be done by phone or mail, or for anyone who wants to vote absentee, contact the county clerk’s office at 729-4144 and they can meet you curbsite where you can vote. For those who want to pay personal property taxes or real estate taxes, or turn in their assessment forms, you can mail them to the appropriate office at the address on your form, or you can leave them in the drop-off box at the southwest corner of the courthouse lawn and they will be retrieved. To request access to the county clerk’s office for notary renewals, or to make an appointment with the treasurer’s office, the county collector’s office or the assessor’s office, call the office holder and discuss your need. Many times your needs can be handled on the phone. Here is a list of the county office phone numbers: the Dent County Clerk is 729-4144; the Dent County Collector is 729-3911, the Dent County Assessor is 729-6010 and the Dent County Treasurer is 729-8260. The commission also decided to only hold meetings on Monday mornings from 9:00 in the morning until noon or the conclusion of business until further notice. Those meetings will be open to the public.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Health Center Administrator Kendra Mobray said that as of Sunday, 106 cases of the COVID-19 virus have been reported in Missouri. She said she gets her data from the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. She reported there are still no cases of the virus in Dent or the immediate surrounding counties. She said her office had contacted all the restaurants after the directive was sent down Saturday about all food establishments being allowed to only offer carry out or delivery. She also said the Dent County Health Center will only be accessible to patients who make an appointment except for those who need to get vital records. The number to call is 729-3106. Emergency Management Director Brad Nash brought in a proclamation to declare a “State of Emergency” for Dent County about the COVID 19 virus as he said that would make it easier for him to put the county’s emergency operational plan in effect if it was needed. The commissioner’s approved declaring the State of Emergency for Dent County. Donald Dodd from the Dent County Industrial Development Board was in to recommend Chris Holiday to fill the IDA Board position vacated by James Coffman. The commission approved his request. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Dennis Purcell said patch grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2430, 2470, 4210, 6220 and 6430 while materials would also be added to two of those county roads: 6220 and 6430. Purcell mentioned brush would be cut on county road 5530. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported that materials would be added and patch grading done on Dent County Roads 2150 and 3300 while only patch grading would be done on county road 4437. Larson went on to say brush would be cut on county road 2380. He wanted to remind everyone that the county roads are still extremely wet and with more rain in the forecast, grading right now would do much more damage to the roads than good. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he attended the COVID 19 meeting last Friday at the firehouse. He also was on a conference call that day with the CCAM board of Directors to hear how they are dealing with the pandemic. He said some counties close to the metropolitan areas would like more state control while some of the rural counties would like less restrictions. Their next conference call will be Wednesday. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said candidate filing for county offices will be open until March 31st. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday, March 30th at 9:00 and the meeting will be open to the public.

After a promising start to 2020 with a five-year low in January traffic fatalities, February did not follow suit and ended with 63 people killed (preliminary results) in Missouri traffic crashes. As the state eyes a long-term vision for zero traffic fatalities, there have been 10 days thus far in 2020 with no fatal traffic crashes. Meanwhile, there were 12 days in February alone where three or more people were killed in a crash, including six fatalities on Super Bowl Sunday. Traffic crashes constitute a public health crisis – one that claimed the lives of 877 people in Missouri and more than 36,000 nationwide last year. The majority of these deaths are preventable by simply slowing down, buckling up and putting your phone down. Missouri’s Buckle Up Phone Down campaign has seen tremendous success with more than 500 businesses and 13,000 individuals pledging to adopt those two life-saving steps. Seat belt usage has increased by 6.3% in the last three years in Missouri and fatalities dropped 6% during that same period. Following Missouri’s lead, three other states are also active in the BUPD movement with several more expressing interest in the initiative as well. That said the February results are a reminder there remains plenty of work to do in both spreading and adopting the message. Preliminary statistics show that 72% of drivers and passengers killed in 2020 crashes thus far were unbuckled. Compared to 2019, this is a 9% increase in the number of unbuckled occupants killed. While excessive speed, aggression, distraction, and impairment remain the leading cause of fatal traffic crashes in Missouri, seat belts, car seats, and helmets remain a person’s number one defense should a crash occur. There have been countless tragedies on our roadways that could have been prevented with the simple use of a seat belt. Likewise, many of these crashes would not occur in the first place if we all embrace our responsibility to drive in a safe manner. Simple conscious and consistent choices can ensure that March and the remainder of 2020 result in a better outcome. As you take your daily commute or simply drop the top on the convertible for a sunny spring drive, please remember the simple steps we can all take to ensure a safer transportation system: drive sober, slow down, buckle up and put your phone down. Together, we can all do our part to move Missouri closer to zero traffic fatalities. For additional information regarding roadway safety or Buckle Up Phone Down, visit www.saveMOlives.com or www.modot.org/bupd.