Local News

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray stated grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5400, 6170, 6175 and 6240 while the Mannis brush cutter is being serviced. Mobray said rock will be hauled to a number of locations. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 2403, while only grading will be done on county road 4437. Polk said brush would be cut on county roads 4380 and 6150. Polk said workers were repairing a radio on a tractor, and a crew would be installing new speed limit signs on Dent County Road 2070. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the county has received the hail damage insurance check from Tokio Marine HCC in the amount of $584,537.88, and will begin to put bid specs together so the repair projects could be put out for bid. Assistant County Clerk Melissa Piatt said she would be working on the handicapped and elderly applications that will need to be sent out soon in order for the elderly and handicapped unable to go to the polls the chance to vote in the November election. At the last meeting, Dent County Coroner Ben Pursiful told the commission he needs a vehicle with an eight-foot bed. He has been under budget the last four years and doesn’t take the county insurance that saves the county money. They would like Pursiful to look at used vehicles that may be available, but the commission will also check the state bid and compare. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

Military veterans can trout fish for free at Montauk State Park Saturday which is sponsored through the partnership of “Hooked on Vets,” the Missouri Department of Conservation and Missouri State Parks. Veterans must pick and display a fishing tag that will be given to them at the “Hooked on Vets” tent/booth by their personnel that will be set up in the park. Veterans can also find out more about all the “Hooked on Vets” projects and services at the tent/booth.

“Ladies’ Day Trout Fishing Event” is set for this weekend at Maramec Spring Park. Women anglers of all ages are invited to a free trout-fishing event this Saturday, September 7. The Missouri Department of Conservation is hosting the event from 7:30 a.m. to 7:15 p.m., with no fishing license or daily trout tag required for women participants. A special area of the spring branch will be reserved for event anglers, where 100 tagged prize fish will be stocked. Catching one of these fish could win anglers prizes such as fishing rods, vests, tackle boxes, and nets. MDC staff will provide instruction on basic trout fishing tactics, casting, cleaning, and cooking. Fly tying and casting demonstrations will also be available for those interested in fly fishing. While the event focuses on women anglers, men are welcome to fish other areas of the park with the purchase of a daily tag. The park entrance fee will be waived for all female participants. Maramec Spring Park is located about six miles east of St. James on Highway 8. For more information, contact Hatchery Manager Tyler Edwards at (573) 265-7801 or tyler.edwards@mdc.mo.gov.

Healthy Dent County is hosting an informational meeting on navigating menopause on Tuesday, September 17 from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory. April Greener, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, from the Dent County Health Department will be the guest speaker. The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending should RSVP by contacting Susie at the Salem Community Center at 573-739-1127 or susie@salemcommunitycenter.org.

MoDOT inspectors have discovered quality problems with new concrete on the 8-mile eastbound section of Interstate 44 between Rolla and St. James. This is part of a $50.5 million project that began in April 2022. The issues, found in concrete joints, will require corrections and delay the project’s completion. MoDOT is requiring the contractor, Capital Paving & Construction, to analyze the full 8 miles of concrete and develop a remediation plan. The current traffic pattern for eastbound drivers will remain in place while the issue is addressed. A new completion date has not been set. For more information, visit modot.org/I44phelpscrawford or call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT.

Monday afternoon at 1:35 in Dent County on Highway 68 about three miles north of Salem, an accident happened that left a Salem man in serious condition. According to the highway patrol report, a 2023 Kia Seltos was being driven eastbound by 47-year-old Nicholas McGraw of Salem, when he traveled off the right side of the roadway where the Kia struck an embankment and overturned. McGraw suffered serious injuries and was transported by Air Evac Medical Helicopter to Mercy Hospital in Springfield. The Kia was totaled and removed from the scene by American Muffler. McGraw was wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The highway patrol was assisted at the scene by the Dent County Sheriff’s Department, the Salem Memorial Hospital EMS, and the Dent County Fire Protection District.

An accident happened Saturday evening in Phelps County at 6:23 on Phelps County Road 2110 about five miles north of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, 21-year-old Sebastian Jones of Rolla, was operating a 2006 Honda Motorcycle and was being pursued by the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, when he traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. Jones was ejected from the motorcycle and suffered serious injuries. He was Mercy Life Flighted to the University Hospital in Columbia. Jones was wearing safety equipment when the accident occurred. The Honda was totaled and removed from the scene by C&C Towing.

An accident happened Monday afternoon at 4:20 in Phelps County on Phelps County Road 3000 at Phelps County Road 3190, about four miles east of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, an Arctic Cat All-Terrian Vehicle driven eastbound by 45-year-old Derek Willison of Rolla, swerved to miss another vehicle and overturned. Suffering moderate injuries was Willison, while a passenger on the ATV, 35-year-old Jennali Chasteen of Rolla, suffered minor injuries. Both were taken to Phelps Health by the Phelps Health Ambulance District. Neither were wearing any safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Arctic Cat sustained moderate damages and was towed from the scene by a private party.

An accident happened in Dent County Wednesday morning at 7:04 on Route P about two miles west of Highway 32. according to the highway patrol report, 55-year-old Brian Miller of Salem was driving a 2006 Chevrolet 2500 northbound, when the side mirror of the truck struck 25-year old Owen Ramey of Salem, who was was walking along the edge of the roadway. Ramey suffered minor injuries and was transported to the Salem Hospital for treatment. The Chevrolet truck sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene. 

Healthy Dent County is thrilled to invite the community to its 13th Annual Girls Night Out, taking place on Thursday, September 12, from 4:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory, located at 1200 W. Rolla Road in Salem. This highly anticipated event promises an evening filled with fun and excitement for women and girls aged 12 and older. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore over 50 unique vendors showcasing a diverse range of products and services tailored to women’s interests. Highlights of the event include shopping with an array of unique vendors, prize giveaways and door prizes, FREE samples of various products, food samples for a delightful culinary experience, exciting activities and more. Admission is just $5.00, and all proceeds support Healthy Dent County’s initiatives. As a special incentive, attendees who bring a canned or non-perishable food item will receive a ticket for a chance to win a gift card. Each item donated increases the chance of winning, with all contributions going to the Sacred Heart Food Pantry and Grace Harbor. Healthy Dent County Executive Director Sherry Lea said this annual event is a fantastic opportunity for women to enjoy an evening of shopping and socializing while supporting a great cause. We’re excited to bring together a diverse group of vendors and offer a range of activities that promise to make this Girls’ Night Out a memorable experience. For more information or to inquire about becoming a vendor, please contact Jackie at 729-8163 or via email at jackie@salemcommunitycenter.org.

The Missouri Department of Conservation will host a hunter education certification course on September 16 from 5-9 p.m. at East Central Community College’s Rolla North Campus. The course is for participants 11 and older. Attendees must complete the knowledge portion beforehand, either online (for a fee) or via the free student manual. Those who choose to complete the student manual chapter review questions must bring the booklet to the class for the instructor to review at no cost. Student manuals can be found on MDC’s website. For more information on hunter education requirements and to register for the course visit mdc.mo.gov/hunting-trapping/hunter-education.

Seven people died in traffic crashes, two people died in a boating crash, and one person drowned during the 2024 Labor Day holiday weekend. The 2024 counting period for the Labor Day holiday was from 6:00 Friday evening August 30th, through 11:59 Monday night, September 2nd. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following enforcement activity during 2024 Labor Day holiday. These are preliminary statistics. There were 233 crashes resulting in 115 injuries which resulted in 7 fatalities. There were 108 DWI arrests and 5 Drug arrests. Preliminary MSHP Boating indicate there were 3 crashes, resulting in 8 injuries and 2 fatalities. There was 1 drowning and 8 Boating While Intoxicated arrests. The fatality statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, if other departments report fatalities after this news release was sent out, or if a fatality is determined to be caused by a medical condition rather than a traffic/boating/drowning incident.

The Maries County Public Water Supply District No. 1 has been awarded a $30,000 grant by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. This Drinking Water Engineering Report Grant will enable the district to evaluate its drinking water system and identify necessary improvements. The grant is part of a program designed to help communities assess their public drinking water systems. With this funding, the district will be able to pinpoint any upgrades needed to maintain reliable service and meet drinking water quality standards. Department officials stressed the importance of water infrastructure in supporting community health and economic vitality. This evaluation will allow the district to address current needs and plan for future growth. The project is funded in part or whole by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Missouri Department of Natural Resources, through its Financial Assistance Center, offers various funding opportunities for communities with water infrastructure needs. For more information on water-related funding opportunities, interested parties can visit the department’s website at dnr.mo.gov.

Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) is accepting public comment on its Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) until September 7th. A CEDS is designed to identify regional priorities for economic and community development. An effective plan allows the region to maximize its economic development potential, as well as engage with the Economic Development Administration (EDA) and other federal partners to receive infrastructure and technical assistance grants. MRPC Planning Manager Anne Freand said that the CEDS is important to the region because it identifies locally grown strategies that will guide regional economic development, encourage partnerships and collaboration and improve economic outcomes and overall quality of life in our region. The CEDS document is the result of a year-long planning process, which included data gathering and input from people who live and work in the Meramec Region. The draft plan can be found online at www.meramecregion.org. For additional questions or to submit feedback email Freand at afreand@meramecregion.org or call the MRPC office at 573-265-2993. Feedback can also be mailed to MRPC Attention Anne Freand, #4 Industrial Drive, St. James, MO 65559 or individuals can stop by the office in person between 8:00 and 4:30, Monday through Friday.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways will offer free, one-day fly fishing workshops for youth ages 12-16 on September 8, 15, and October 6 at Mt Zion Church north of Akers. Park Ranger Mark Van Patten, a 2023 National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame inductee, will lead the sessions. The workshops will cover casting techniques, catch and release methods, fly presentation, aquatic entomology, equipment, and water reading. Each session is limited to 10 youth participants, with a required parent or guardian for each. Participants should bring a valid Missouri fishing permit (if 16 or older), trout permit, waders, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bug spray, lunch, and water. Some equipment will be provided. For reservations, contact Round Spring Ranger Station at (573) 858-3297. 

The Missouri Agricultural and Small Business Development Authority (MASBDA) is accepting applications for the Show-Me Entrepreneurial Grants for Agriculture (SEGA) Innovation Grant Program until October 4, 2024. The program offers grants ranging from $50,000 to $250,000 for Missouri entities seeking to add value to agricultural products. Recipients must provide a minimum 25% cash match. Eligible projects include facilities, equipment upgrades, services, and cooperative marketing efforts related to value-added agriculture. For application forms and more information, visit www.masbda.com or contact MASBDA at (573) 751-2129 or masbda@mda.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commission met last Thursday morning at the courthouse. District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray was not in attendance due to a prior commitment, so Road Supervisor Jason Akins gave the road report. He stated rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 6370, while only grading would be done on county roads 5380 and 6280. Akins also said brush would be cut on county roads 5130 and 5150. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and bridge maintenance would be done on Dent County Road 4060, while limbs would be trimmed on county road 4280, new blades would be put on grader #37, a brush cutter will be picked up at Heritage Tractor, and a snow plow will be taken to Knapheide in Jefferson City to make sure it works for the winter. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said the county will put out for bid the purchase of 3,500 gallons of propane for the winter. The bids need to be submitted to the county clerk’s office by 10:00, Monday morning, September 9th, to be considered. He also said the county received a notice from their insurance company that they county received a notice from their insurance company that they will pay up to $584,537.88 for hail damage to county buildings. He said bids will have to be let out for that work to be done. Larson said there is a grant opportunity through the MRPC for the centennial celebration of Route 66. Details can be found on the MRPC website or call 573-265-2993. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the commission received a petition to set the speed limit on Dent County Road 2070 to 25 MPH and the commission approved the request. Also, the road and bridge department did phone bids for diesel fuel and received bids from Phil-Mart, County Fuels and MFA Oil. Phil-Mart had the lowest price at $2.49 which was accepted by the commission. Curley said she would be gone part of next week for a county clerk’s meeting and wanted voters to update their voter information for the General Election in November. She said the first day for an excused absentee ballot will be September 24th, and the first day for a no-excuse absentee ballot will be October 22nd. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk said she sold eight parcels of property on the courthouse steps Monday in the tax sale and turned over $102,456.69 plus $250 in advertising fees to the county treasurer. She said the original owners of the property sold still have one year and one day to pay the back taxes to recover their property. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday, September 5th, at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley has released information on a number of cases heard in front of Judge Michael Randazzo. Dawn Smith of Salem, pled guilty to two counts of second degree drug trafficking, two counts possession of meth, one count possession of suboxone, one count maintaining a public nuisance, and one count of felony resisting arrest. Smith was sentenced to 15 years in the Department of Corrections pursuant to RSMo Section 217.362, long term drug treatment program, as recommended by Prosecutor Curley. Jen Moller of Salem, was sentenced to seven years in the Department of Corrections as requested by Assistant PA James Weber; due to failing to register as a sex offender. Brianna Nichols previously pleaded guilty to possession of fentanyl. A sentencing hearing was held, and the defendant sought probation. Nichols was sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections under RSMo Section 559.115, as requested by Prosecutor Curley. Hope Bell of Salem, pled guilty to possession of meth and felony stealing. Bell’s sentence was suspended and required to complete the Dent County Alternative Sentencing Court, a.k.a. drug court, with five years’ supervised probation.

There will be a Community Blood Center of the Ozarks blood drive at the First Baptist Church at 201 North MacArthur today from noon until 6:00. Successful donors will receive a voucher to the Dickerson Park Zoo, valid through July of 2025. Donors may also receive a limited-edition zoo themed T-shirt, while supplies last. Appointments can be made at cbco.org/donate-blood or by calling 417-227-5006.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors have announced they plan to affiliate with Phelps Health to continue to provide much needed quality health care to residents of Dent and surrounding counties. The two entities entered into a non-binding letter of intent Wednesday, August 28th which describes their shared vision of the arrangement. The negotiated affiliation would begin early in 2025 after both parties do their due diligence concerning the business side of the affiliation. Brooke Bollman, the CEO of the Salem Hospital, said representatives from the hospital and Phelps Health have been in discussion and believe this partnership could be a significant step forward on a shared mission of providing quality healthcare for years to come. According to Jason Shenefield, the CEO of Phelps Health, the collaboration between Phelps Health and the Salem Memorial Hospital is driven by a shared commitment to improving community health.

The 10th Annual Salem Area Chamber of Commerce pro rodeo, sanctioned by IPRA/ACRA/MRCA and produced by Outlaw Rodeo Productions will be held this Labor Day weekend on Saturday, and Sunday, beginning at 7:30 each night at The Commons on Highway 72 North with the gates opening at 5:00 for family activities. There will be a number of events held including team roping, steer wrestling, barrel racing, bull riding, bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, calf roping and breakaway roping with a boot toss for the kids age 10 and under as well as the Mini Buckers! Making a special appearance this year will be 2024 Miss Rodeo USA Kaelanne Quinonez and the 2024 Missouri Miss Teen Rodeo Jacie Jost. A special half-time show will be put on by trick rider Sophia Duch. Advanced tickets are still available at both Bank of Salem locations, both locations of Town and Country Bank, Progressive Ozark Bank, Riverways Federal Credit Union and the Salem Chamber of Commerce office at 1136 South Main in the Crossroads Shopping Center. Ticket prices in advance are $8 for adults and $4 for children ages 5-11, while at the gate, ticket prices are $10 for adults and $5 for children.  If you have any questions, call the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at (573) 729-6900.

Echo Bluff State Park is hosting a series of free concerts over Labor Day weekend. The events will take place at the park’s amphitheater from August 31 to September 2. On Saturday, August 31 at 8 p.m., Jimmy Hill and Friends will perform a mix of classic country and rock. Sunday, September 1 at 8 p.m. features James Vankirk, a veteran musician with 36 years of experience. The Baker Family will close out the series on Monday, September 2 at 7 p.m., offering classic country, bluegrass, and original tunes. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs to the amphitheater, located at 35244 Echo Bluff Drive in Eminence. In addition, Lake Wappapello State Park will host a free movie night on Saturday, August 31. The film “Migration” will be shown at dusk in the park’s amphitheater. Lake Wappapello State Park is located at 8005 State Highway 172 in Williamsville. For more information on these and other state park events, visit mostateparks.com/events.

As Missourians prepare for the 2024 Labor Day weekend, Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, is urging everyone to plan ahead and prioritize safety, both on the roads and on the water. The Labor Day holiday is a time of heavy travel and recreational activities, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol will be actively participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort) to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors. For those hitting the road, Colonel Olson emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance and safe driving practices. He reminds drivers to ensure their vehicles are in good working condition before setting out, to obey all traffic laws, and to stay focused and buckle up. The 2024 counting period for the Labor Day holiday will run from 6:00 PM on Friday, August 30th, through 11:59 PM on Monday, September 2nd. Reflecting on the previous year, Missouri saw 15 fatalities and 477 injuries resulting from 1,058 traffic crashes over the Labor Day weekend in 2023, equating to one person being killed or injured every 9.5 minutes. Additionally, 125 individuals were arrested for driving while intoxicated during that period. For those planning to spend time on Missouri’s waterways, safety remains equally critical. Colonel Olson advises boaters to inspect fuel lines, test batteries, and follow proper procedures when refueling to avoid accidents. The effects of alcohol are intensified on the water due to boating stressors like sun, wind, and engine noise. Boaters are encouraged to drink responsibly and never operate a vessel under the influence of alcohol. In 2023, the state recorded 12 boating crashes during the Labor Day weekend, resulting in three injuries and zero fatalities. Marine enforcement troopers will be patrolling the waterways, focusing on preventing accidents and ensuring compliance with boating laws. Whether on land or water, the Missouri State Highway Patrol will have all available troopers on duty, enforcing speed limits, seat belt use, and laws against impaired driving, as well as assisting motorists and boaters.

The Board of Aldermen held their regular meeting on Tuesday the 27th of August in the Auditorium. After approving the agenda and consent agenda, there were no public comments. The board approved road closure for the Football Parade that will be held on Friday September 6th at 5:30pm and will go from the courthouse to the high school football field. The board then approved a bid for a used 2016 John Deere 310 backhoe, located in Cuba, MO. The construction crew has paid over $7,000 into repairing their oldest backhoe, and it still does not meet requirements for safety and quality standards. The proposed bid is the only one that fits within the $80,000 budget that also provides a 1 year or 1,000 hour warranty. While bids for other machines had lower pricing, none provided a warranty. The $80,000 budgeted for this purchase will be split equally between the Capital Improvements and General Fund. During New and Miscellaneous business, Resolution No. 19-2024 was presented by Police Chief Joe Chase. The resolution will allow the City of Salem to execute a 9-1-1 services and software license agreement between Indigital Inc. and the Salem Police Department, bringing the ability to text 9-1-1 services to 13 counties in southern Missouri with Dent county being the Head County. Dent County has two Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) and qualifies for a $250,000 five year, no cost grant for each location. After the 5 year grant expires, it is estimated that the cost for maintenance could be anywhere between $6,000 and $19,000 which would be split evenly between the City of Salem and Dent County. Resolution 19-2024 was passed by the board. The resolution No. 21-2024 modifying Resolution No. 4-2022 to incorporate changes in the Affordable Housing Program was passed with Alderwoman Sisco abstaining from the vote. The meeting moved on to the reports of City officials. City of Salem Administrator, Sally Burbridge gave an update on the storm siren. They have submitted a Letter of Intent to the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) for a grant to replace the siren. She explained that once SEMA acquires funds from FEMA, they will review all notices submitted and send out invitations to apply for grants. Sally Spoke with a representative from the MRPC who stated there is a good chance that the City of Salem’s Letter of Intent will be accepted and funded because it is a matter of need, and not just a software upgrade. The letter of Intent is good for two years, giving the City two chances to be approved. Mayor Greg Parker stated the city offices will be closed on Monday September 2nd for Labor Day, but trash services will run their normal schedule. He also noted there are a lot of roof and construction projects going on, and wanted to remind everyone to be sure all nails are cleared from the area. Parks and Recs Director, Melissa Dubois, provided an update on the city pool. The liner has been installed. They are working with West Core for the final touches and to get the pool winterized. She stated there is no time for them to open the pool this year, but they will be ready next year. Melissa did state a leak was found under the building and has already been addressed. Stacy Houston gave an update on financials. None of the Aldermen and Women had anything further to report. The meeting then adjourned to close session.

The Salem Memorial Hospital held their Public Tax Meeting on Tuesday, August 28th in the hospital library. The current and proposed tax rate is $0.24 per $100, the motion to approve the tax rate was unanimously approved before the Public Tax Meeting was adjourned. 

The Salem Memorial Hospital (SMH) Board of Directors held their regular meeting on Tuesday at 7:00pm in the hospital library. The board approved the meeting minutes. During the CEO Report Brooke Bollman gave an update on her 30 day strategic plan for the month of July. The hospital’s accomplishments included: Implementing a spending freeze, reallocating expenses, realigning roles and responsibilities, passing Mammography and Physicist inspections for Radiology, and reevaluating service contracts. Brooke stated her main priority at the moment is focusing on cash flow and debt repayment. Ms. Bollman also provided the Summary of Operations report for the month of July. Inpatient, outpatient admissions and emergency room visits are down from this time last year. With the priority being placed on cash flow, the hospital has managed to lower their debt from $2 million to $1.4 million. The hospital’s total operating revenue for July was around $2.2 million dollars, And total operating expenses were around $2 million dollars providing a profit of $150,700. The July 340B program revenue totaled $48,676. As for the hospital’s “Cash on Hand”, the report currently shows the hospital having cash on hand for 28 days. Ms. Bollman explained that the amount was not accurately figured, so the number of days will drop significantly once it is properly adjusted. She explained that the reason for the discrepancy is due to Foundation monies being included in that amount, and that is not money the hospital is allowed to spend, and that should not be figured into that report. Ms. Bollman also explained that there are a lot of misallocations and double posting within the budget that she is working to correct. The Board then moved on to the Chief Nursing Officer and Human Resources Report provided by Kayla Chamberlain. There have been 7 new hires in the month of July as well, 6 employees have left for various reasons. The hospital has received many LPN applications and they hope to begin interviews soon. Long Term Care is fully staffed, and they have five ambulances in operation. Kayla stated she plans to go to the Texas County School of Nursing to introduce herself and let students know, SMH is available as an option for rotations. During new business, Dr. Leigh Ann Price stated Board Member Wanda Tatom submitted her letter of resignation this week. The board approved the resignation, then opened nominations for election of officers. Dr. Leigh Ann Price was voted as Board Chairman, and Zach Moser was nominated and elected for the Vice Chair position. The board then adjourned and entered closed session. The next SMH Board meeting will be held on September 24th at 7pm.

The Dent County Health Center (DCHC) Board of Trustees held their regular meeting Thursday, August 22nd. The meeting was opened with the tax levy hearing. Information provided indicated that the total assessed valuation for the county is $201,051,926 and according to the State Auditor’s office the maximum that DCHC can levy this year is $0.0959 per $100 assessed valuation, which would produce an estimated $192,809 in revenue. The Board approved a motion to set the tax rate at $0.0959 per $100 assessed valuation. Nurse Practitioner April Greener addressed the Board to announce that she is stepping down from a full-time position to a part-time position in order to pursue a part-time position as an educator with the Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Foundation. This condition has closely affected her family and her last full-time day will be September 13th. Administrator Zach Moser presented the Service and Statistics report. In the Communicable Disease Report, he stated that there were 12 COVID-19 cases reported, 40 lead cases, 26 screenings for sexually transmitted infections plus 92 total tests conducted, no cases of Influenza and 8 animal bites. The environmental report by Assistant Administrator Roma Jones showed there where 4 total inspections conducted, no recalls, no sewer complaints, and 14 environmental questions were fielded. Moser presented the list of food establishments who have not submitted their inspection fees for the year. The Maternal-Child Health (MCH) statistics showed there were 5 car-seats and one crib distributed, one CPR Course, 2 consultation for Childcare Health, one Show-Me Healthy Women appointment, 22 Title X appointments, 2 Presumptive Eligibilities (Temporary Medicaid) and 316 WIC appointments. The Community-Specific Services Summary showed 519 total appointments other than WIC, 122 Nurse Practitioner appointments, 111 treatment court visits, 202 lab appointments and 57 immunization appointments. Nurse Practitioner Service Details showed one Show-Me Healthy Women appointments, 5 family plannings, 7 well-child visits, 9 online appointments, one other well-woman exams, 12 other physicals, 10 SEMO physicals, 13 other visits, and 64 acute illness appointments. Laboratory details showed 210 individual patients, 3 appointments for Rapid Test for COVID, Flu, RSV or Strep, 21 pregnancy tests and 9 lead tests. Immunizations for July totaled zero for COVID-19 or for Influenza, and 105 for other vaccines, including the new RSV vaccine and new formulations of pneumonia vaccine. In the Administrator’s report, Moser reported on the Lead Poisoning Town-hall meeting that was held on August 1st at the Community Center @ the Armory, the Back to School Festival held August 3rd, and the Healthy Baby Event held August 22nd in partnership with Prevention Consultants and Four Rivers Health. He noted that future events include the Fall Health Fair October 11th and the Drive-through Flu and COVID vaccine clinic October 17th. Moser reported that the insurance adjuster finally checked for damage from the April 18th hail storm and the adjuster said that there was no damage to the roofing. Moser emphasized the need for more space and suggested at a minimum that the “carport” be enclosed and converted to a consolidated storage area. The need for a second leased printer was also discussed. The Health Center financial reports for July, including the overall results from H & R Block, were reviewed. Discussion was held on the balance sheet, income statement, and budget statements. The asset liability statement was reviewed showing assets totaling $1,885,687.84, total liabilities in the amount of $171,682.82, and equity totaling $1,714,005.02. The July revenue statement indicated receipts were $55,512.37, while expenses were $92,413.95 for net operating loss of $36,910.58. After other revenue and expenses, net revenue was a negative $39,904.44. After these questions were answered, the financial reports and the report from H & R Block were approved. Moser proposed adding a full-time nurse practitioner, while retaining April Greener part time. He also asked for consent to start recruiting for a Family Medicine Physician. There were no objections from the Board. The next regular meeting of the Board was set for Thursday, September 19th at 5:00.

MoDOT crews will perform pavement repairs on Route 72 from Route 21 in Reynolds County to Route 32 in Dent County. Work is scheduled for today and tomorrow, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Route KK in Reynolds County will be reduced to one lane with a 12-foot width restriction for bridge maintenance. The affected area is from County Road 900 to County Road 906 near Bunker. Work is scheduled to be completed by September 30, weather permitting. The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists should use caution when traveling through the areas. Motorists should expect reduced lanes and are urged to use caution in the work zones. For more information, contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636).

The U.S. Forest Service has completed a major road reconstruction project on Crane Tower Road in Mark Twain National Forest. The 0.8-mile road, located in Iron County, provides the only vehicle access to the top of Crane Mountain. Timber sales in the area helped fund the $34,500 project, which repaired erosion issues and made the road more durable and enjoyable for visitors. Before the work, the road had deteriorated to the point that few vehicles could traverse it. The repairs allow more people to access the scenic vista at the top of Crane Mountain. The Forest Service used “stewardship retained receipts” from timber sales to cover the project costs. Similar road reconstruction was also done on Turkeyfoot Road in 2021 using this funding mechanism. The Forest Service encourages the public to contact their local offices with any questions about roads, projects, or recreation opportunities in Mark Twain National Forest.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse for their regular meeting. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 6490 while only grading would be done on county roads 5550 and 6380. Mobray said a crew member would be going to Springfield to get oil for chip and seal repair. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 3253, while only grading would be done on county roads 3255, 3260, 3265 and 4380. Polk said rock would also be added to county road 3180. He said a crew member would be going to Taylor Chrysler to get a new key for Truck #69. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported Denver Ellis and Darrell Skiles brought in a signed petition they would like to see placed on the November 5th ballot. The petition reads “Shall the County of Dent exempt senior citizens aged 62 and older from increases in the property tax liability due on such senior citizens primary residence?” The signatures are currently being verified with voter registration records and the commission will have the prosecuting attorney review the petition before making any decision on it. According to Dent County Clerk Angie Curley, the last day for certification to place any issue on the ballot is Tuesday. She also wanted to remind all the political subdivisions that have not yet turned in their tax rate information to her office, to please do so before the end of the week. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday morning at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

On August 26, 2024 the County Commissioners met to consider a referendum petition for a senior homestead property tax credit after receiving a recently circulated referendum petition. RSMo 137.1050 (Formerly Senate Bill 190) provides that: 2. Any county authorized to impose a property tax may grant a property tax credit to eligible taxpayers residing in such county in an amount equal to the taxpayer’s eligible credit amount, provided that: (1) Such county adopts an ordinance authorizing such credit; or (2) A petition in support of a referendum on such a credit is signed by at least five percent of the registered voters of such county voting in the last gubernatorial election and the petition is delivered to the governing body of the county, which shall subsequently hold a referendum on such credit. As a result, Dent County Officials commissioned a poll through the Salem Newspaper to determine whether to adopt an ordinance or accept the referendum petition. Pursuant to the statute, Commissioners were not allowed to place the issue on a ballot without a valid referendum petition with sufficient registered voter approval. After considering the close nature of the poll (246 total participants with 59% in Favor with 41% Against), the commissioners accepted the referendum petition to be placed on the November 2024 general election ballot. The fate of the senior homestead property tax credit will be decided by a majority of Dent County voters. 

The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors will hold their regular meeting Tuesday evening at 7:00 in the hospital library. At the meeting, the Board will review and approve minutes for the July 30th, and August 5th, 14th, 21st, and 24th meetings. The Board will hear the Administrator’s report, plus the summary of operations and statistics for the month of July. The Board will be updated on the 340B program, receive the Chief Nursing Officer report, and be updated on Human Resources. The Board will address old business followed by new business including a resignation, election of officers and the FOA Reassessment. The board may then vote to go into closed session. The Salem Memorial Hospital Board of Directors meeting Tuesday night is open to the public. To attend the meeting electronically, contact the hospital administration office at 729-6626, extension 4005.

An accident occurred in Crawford County Saturday night at 9:24 at Highway 49 and Adams Road. According to the Highway Patrol report a northbound 2007 Chevrolet Impala, driven by an 18-year-old male, Dakota Sequichie of Steelville, traveled off the right side of the roadway, striking a road sign and several trees. Sequichie, along with a passenger 18-year-old Chloe Brooks of Viburnum, suffered moderate injuries. Brooks was transported by private vehicle to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. Sequichie was also taken to Missouri Baptist in Sullivan by the Iron County Ambulance District. An 18-year-old passenger, Abigail Wilkinson of Viburnum, suffered minor injuries and was transported by Iron County Ambulance to Missouri Baptist in Sullivan. A 17-year-old male juvenile also suffered minor injuries and was transported to Missouri Baptist Sullivan by Steelville Ambulance. The reported stated that all of the occupants except for Brooks were wearing safety restraints. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene y Abney’s Towing. 

The Enhanced Enterprise Zone of Salem and Dent County will hold their annual meeting at 5:30 on Wednesday, August 28th at the Salem Community Center@The Armory in the Walden Meeting Room. At the meeting after the call to order, the agenda items approval, and approval of the last meeting’s minutes, the board will elect a chairman before they review and approve the annual filing statement for the period ending June 30, 2024. The board will discuss any other business that comes before the board before the meeting is adjourned. The meeting of the Enhanced Enterprise Zone board is open to the public. 

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley released information about the euthanization of the five dogs that were involved in the attack of a mail carrier. The act was carried out pursuant to the Salem City Ordinance and Missouri State Statute RSMo 578.024 which provides that a person commits the offense of keeping a dangerous dog if he or she owns or possesses a dog that has previously bitten a person or a domestic animal without provocation and that dog bites any person on a subsequent occasion. Also, the offense of keeping a dangerous dog is a class B misdemeanor, unless such attack results in serious injury to any person, in which case, it is a class A misdemeanor; or results in serious injury to any person and any previous attack also resulted in serious injury to any person, in which case, it is a class E felony; or results in the death of any person, in which case, it is a class D felony. In addition to the penalty included in this section, if any dog that has previously bitten a person or a domestic animal without provocation bites any person on a subsequent occasion or if a dog that has not previously bitten a person attacks and causes serious injury to or the death of any human, the dog shall be seized immediately by an animal control authority or by the county sheriff. The dog shall be impounded and held for ten business days after the owner or possessor is given written notification and thereafter destroyed. Curley says that in this case, the dogs had not previously bitten another person or domestic animal, as required for state prosecution, but caused serious injury to the victim, resulting in the destruction of the dogs involved. As a result, the owner cannot be charged with a crime by state statute. Further, Dent County does not have an ordinance concerning aggressive dogs, nor dogs at large. The City of Salem has an ordinance for dogs at large and the owner of the dogs received citations for each animal. Further, civil remedies, such as a lawsuit for personal injuries and/or workman’s compensation, remain available to a victim of this circumstance. City of Salem Attorney James Weber added that violations of § 205.140 of the Municipal Code of the City of Salem are punishable by a maximum fine of $500, a maximum sentence of 90 days imprisonment in the Dent County Jail, or a combination thereof. This range of punishment is applicable to each citation issued.

An accident occurred Saturday evening around 9:24 in Crawford County on Hwy 49 and Adams Road. According to the highway patrol report a 2007 Chevrolet Impala driven by 18-year-old Dakota Sequichie of Steelville was travelling northbound and travelled off the right side of the roadway. The Chevrolet struck a road sign and several trees. Sequichie and 18-year-old Chloe Brooks of Viburnum both suffered moderate injuries. Sequiche was wearing a safety restraint and was transported by Iron County Ambulance District to Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan. Brooks was not wearing a safety restraint and was transported by private vehicle to Missouri Baptist. Two other occupants in the Chevrolet suffered minor injuries 18-year-old Abigal Wilkinson of Viburnum and a 17-year-old juvenile male, both were wearing safety restraints. Wilkinson was transported by Iron County Ambulance District and the juvenile by Steelville Ambulance District to Missouri Baptist Hospital Sullivan. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Abney’s Towing.

The Salem Memorial Hospital will hold their tax rate hearing tomorrow evening at 6:45 at the hospital library. The tax rate to be determined is set to produce revenues for the fiscal year beginning July 1st, 2025. For the tax year 2023, the estimate real estate valuation came in at $199,183,841 with the personal property valuation coming in at $86,338.737 for a total of $285,522,678. For the current tax year, the estimated assessed real estate valuation is down to $183,937,158 leaving a total assessed valuation of $270,275,894. The proposed tax rate for 2024 was 24 cents per $100 assessed valuation and that proposed tax rate is the same for 2025. That rate, if approved, would produce about $648,662 for the hospital for the next fiscal year. The hearing will then be adjourned followed by the regular hospital board meeting.

The Missouri State Parks is now accepting nominations for three different advisory board representatives: a pedestrian-use trail representative, a mountain bike trail user representative and an equestrian trail user representative. These representatives will serve a three-year term starting November 1st, and run through November 30th, 2027. Members must be Missouri residents and must participate in the user group they represent. Roles of the Missouri Trails Advisory Board include reviewing, scoring and ranking applications and making recommendations to the grants management section for funding; annually reviewing the recreational trail project application and open selection process; and developing project eligibility criteria including sponsor eligibility and what type of projects the state should consider for funding. To nominate an individual for the Missouri Trails Advisory Board, please submit a nomination form found on the Missouri State Parks’ website at mostateparks.com and search got the nomination form, a resume and/or other background information for the nominee, and two letters of recommendation. Electronic submission is preferred to be sent to mpsgrants@dnr.mo.gov or nominations can be mailed to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, Division of State Parks, Grants Management Section, c/o RTP Planner, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0176. Nomination forms, resumes, and letters of recommendation MUST be submitted to the Missouri State Parks no later than this Sunday, September 1st. For more information, please contact the grants management section within Missouri State Parks at 573-751-7958, 573-751-0848 or mspgrants@dnr.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams gave the the amount of CART funds received by the county in August. She said the county received $86,452.75 which is up $7,347.20 from the 2023 August figure, and up year-to-date, $29,663.64. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 5615 while only grading would be done on county road 6520. Mobray said workers would also be changing the grader blade on Grader #39. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and patch grading done on Dent County Road 3180, while patching would be done on chip and seal county road 6150. He said workers would be replacing the idler pulley on county truck #75.  Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson attended the tourism tax committee meeting Wednesday and reported a submission by SACBA was reduced and then approved, three applications were tabled for more information, and there was a reimbursement to the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce. The Cliftons from Dent County Road 4020 in the Sligo area were in to ask if something could be done to alleviate the water from crossing over the road about two miles down from Route TT. Commissioner Polk said he would check the situation out with the road supervisor to see what could be done.  Dent County Clerk Angie Curley wanted to remind all political subdivisions to get their tax rate information to her office by next week. The next meeting of the commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Commissioners held their 2024 tax rate hearing Thursday morning at 10:00 at the courthouse. Amanda Sapaugh was present at the public hearing. The General Revenue tax rate for 2023 was $0.0003 per $100 assessed valuation which came about due to the improper collection of sales taxes that had to be paid back. The commissioners approved the new rate for 2024 of $0.0171 per $100 assessed valuation. Amanda Sapaugh representing the SB 40 Board was in attendance and said their board wanted to keep their tax rate at $0.1341 per $100 assessed valuation as recommended by the state auditor’s office. The rate was approved by the commission. The Road and Bridge Fund tax rate last year was 25.50 cents per $100 assessed valuation and the commission approved leaving it the same at 25.50 cents per $100 assessed valuation for 2024. The Senior Citizen Service Fund tax rate for 2023 came in at 4.80 cents per $100 assessed valuation. Since that rate is the maximum allowed by the state auditor’s office, the commission approved the 4.80 cents per $100 assessed valuation for 2024.  The hearing was then adjourned.

An accident occurred Wednesday morning in Crawford County at 11:03 on Possum Hollow Road 7 miles south of Bourbon. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2024 Polaris Sportsman, operated by a 15-year-old female juvenile from Bourbon, went off the right side of the roadway, overcorrected, and overturned. A passenger, a 13-year-old female juvenile who was also from Bourbon, suffered serious injuries and was transported to Cardinal Glennon Hospital by Air Evac 8. The driver suffered moderate injuries and was transported to St. Louis Children’s by Mercy Life Line 2. The report stated that neither occupant of the Polaris was wearing safety equipment. The Polaris sustained moderate damage and was driven from the scene.

Do you know of a child in need between the ages of 3 and 17 that does not have a bed?  “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” is an international non-profit 501(C).(3) organization that builds, assembles and delivers new beds to children in need, who do not have a bed. Anyone can apply for the child on the SHPbeds.org website. Would you like to join their team of volunteers? You’re invited to attend the next Salem and Dent County meeting of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” Monday afternoon, August 26th, at 5:30 in the evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory!  The Rolla Chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace is already helping to provide new beds to children in need in our Salem community, and efforts are underway to start a Dent County Chapter. For more information about Sleep in Heavenly Peace, contact Patti at 703-964-6495. You can also e-mail Patti at patti.mckeown@shpbeds.org.

Missouri’s state parks and historic sites offer beautiful vistas, opportunities for outdoor adventures and peaceful spots for reflection. As you spend time at Missouri state parks, take along your camera and submit your favorite photos in the Missouri DNR Photo Contest. The annual contest is open now through September 1st and includes three categories. The natural resources category includes photographs of Missouri’s air, landscapes, and waterways. The category of unique places includes photographs taken within one of Missouri’s state parks or historic sites. The third and final category includes people enjoying and exploring Missouri’s outdoors. Winning photos will be shared on the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website, on social media and showcased at the following year’s Missouri State Fair. For contest rules and to enter your photos, visit dnr.mo.gov/photo-contest. You can also email questions about the photo contest to socialmedia@dnr.mo.gov. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.