Local News

The Salem R-80 Board of Education held its regular meeting and public tax rate hearing Thursday evening at 5:30 in the administration building. Following the call to order and Pledge of Allegiance, the board approved the agenda. A motion was made to appoint a new board member due to the start of the school year, and Mr. Chris Heavin was selected to fill the vacancy. Heavin was sworn in by Assistant Superintendent and Recording Secretary Dan Copeland. The board then approved the consent agenda, and Superintendent Dr. Nathan Wills read a thank-you card from Mrs. Heavin. In his report, Dr. Wills provided updates on several district projects, including updates of the FEMA building, drainage improvements at the football field, and parking lot repairs. He noted that the Junior and Senior High School parking lots have been completed, while issues at the Upper Elementary lot may require additional investment to fully resurface, which will be considered in next year’s budget. Dr. Wills also reported that all roof projects have been completed and that track repairs will hopefully be finished as early as this fall. Administrators presented their reports as well, highlighting a strong start to the new school year. Under new business, the board approved Missouri School Boards’ Association (MSBA) policy updates, the preliminary 2024-2025 Annual Secretary of the Board Report, a transportation contract with First Student for Early Childhood Special Education, the Local Tax Effort and Public Placement Fund Addendum, and a memorandum of understanding with Head Start. Personnel changes included four new hires and one resignation. Board President Dru Howard then opened the tax rate hearing, during which Dr. Wills recommended maintaining the district’s current levy of $2.75 for operations and $0.45 for debt service, for a total tax rate of $3.20. The recommendation was unanimously approved. The board then moved into executive session to discuss personnel matters, where the following coaching assignments were approved: Sarah James as Assistant High School Girls Basketball Coach, Rocky Wade as Middle School Track Assistant Coach, and Lonnie Lee as Assistant High School Football Coach. The meeting concluded with the board setting its next regular session for September 17th at 5:30 in the evening at the administration building. The meeting will be open to the public.

The Salem Public Library Board of Trustees held its regular meeting and public tax levy hearing Thursday evening at 5:00 in the library’s conference room. Following the call to order, the board approved the minutes from the previous meeting. Library Director Kate McBride presented the Librarian’s Report, highlighting increases in book, eBook, periodical, and audiobook circulation, as well as growth in adult programs and internet usage. During old business, the board discussed ongoing repairs in the south basement and ground maintenance needs in the north parking lot. Under new business, members approved raising the interlibrary loan fee from $6.00 to $7.00 due to higher postage costs, and increasing the cool lamination fee from $1.00 to $2.00 per foot to offset rising supply expenses. McBride reported that the library is working to renew its volunteer reading program and is seeking up to 15 volunteers to read once a month at local elementary schools. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact the library for more information. She also noted that the Summer Reading Challenge had 103 participants, and a total of 222 participants across all special summer programs. The meeting then moved into the public tax levy hearing, where the board voted to maintain the current rate of $0.30. Before adjourning, members scheduled the next board meeting for September 18 at 5:00, which will be open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and the National Deer Association (NDA) invite landowners, land managers, and others interested in managing deer on their properties to join them online for a free webinar on open-land management practices to enhance white-tailed deer habitat on their properties. This live Zoom webinar on “Wildflowers and Whitetails” will be held tomorrow evening at 6:00. It will begin with a presentation by the MDC private lands deer biologist followed by MDC and NDA staff answering participants’ questions. To join, visit short.mdc.mo.gov/4tY. This webinar is the third presentation within MDC’s and NDA’s free 2025 Missouri Deer Management Webinar Series via Zoom. The final upcoming webinar within the series will be Utilizing Prescribed Fire for Deer Management and will be held the evening of September 9th at 6:00. To learn more about deer management at mdc.mo.gov.

The Missouri Department of Transportation crews will be seal coating three roads in Iron County next week: Route AA, Route O and Route M. They will be making driving surface improvements on Route O from Highway 21 to Iron County Road 2228 starting Monday at 7:00; Route AA from Highway 21 to the end of state maintenance scheduled to begin Tuesday morning at 7:00; Route M from Highway 21 to the end of state maintenance starting Tuesday morning around 11:00. Seal coats are a pavement repair process that is used by MoDOT on roads with lower traffic volumes to maximize available resources and extend the life of the roadway. Hot emulsion oil is sprayed onto the surface of the road, followed by finely ground rocks which are then compacted to adhere to the roadway.  Excess material is swept off the surface, leaving an improved roadway that will hold up longer against the elements. The method costs about one third the amount of a traditional asphalt overlay. The treatment keeps water from penetrating the surface, extends the life of the roadway up to seven years, and provides improved traction. The work zone will be marked with signs. Motorists are urged to use extreme caution while traveling near the area. For additional information, contact MoDOT’s Customer Service Center toll-free at 1-888-ASK-MODOT (1-888-275-6636), or visit www.modot.org/southeast.

Due to the passage of Senate Bill 28, purchasing a motor vehicle in Missouri will look different down the road in late 2026 or early 2027. The law will take effect August 28th, but the change to paying vehicle sales tax will only be implemented once the second phase of the Department of Revenue’s new FUSION system is operational. Once the system is in place, motor vehicle buyers – when purchasing through a dealership, will be required to pay sales tax at Due to the passage of Senate Bill 28, purchasing a motor vehicle in Missouri will look different down the road in late 2026 or early 2027. The law will take effect August 28th, but the change to paying vehicle sales tax will only be implemented once the second phase of the Department of Revenue’s new FUSION system is operational. Once the system is in place, motor vehicle buyers – when purchasing through a dealership, will be required to pay sales tax at the point of sale. If purchasing from a private party, buyers will continue to take their bill of sale to any Missouri license office to pay sales tax. In both scenarios, buyers will get a paper copy of their new license plate. The permanent metal plate, with the same number configuration, will be mailed to the buyer. Receiving a temporary tag will no longer be an option. Missouri Director of Revenue Trish Vincent said that this change to the way sales tax is collected will eliminate temporary license tags which rob the state of millions of dollars each year because of drivers who never pay their sales tax. Even though the law goes into effect on August 28th, the sales tax changes cannot take effect until the Department of Revenue’s new FUSION system is up and running. FUSION is an acronym for Fifty Unique Systems In One Nexus. Its purpose is to combine older mainframe systems and software applications that can no longer communicate with each other into one core system that will significantly increase speed and efficiency in performing motor vehicle and driver licensing functions. The first phase, which centered on driver licensing, was implemented on November 12, 2024. Vincent also said that this new law affects both the seller and the buyer. The DOR is going to work with dealers to get everyone trained on the new system and prepared to collect sales tax. Buyers will need to be ready to pay the full sales tax amount at the time of purchase. Until FUSION is fully operational, the current sales tax collection process will remain in effect for both dealerships and private vehicle purchases.

An accident happened Sunday evening in Iron County on Iron County Road 74 about three miles south of Bixby. According to the highway patrol report, a 2024 Can Am UTV driven southbound by a 50-year-old male, struck a downed tree in the roadway, then ran off the roadway and overturned. The man suffered minor injuries and was taken by a private conveyance to the Iron County Medical Center in Ironton for treatment. The man was not wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Can AM UTV sustained extensive damage and was driven from the scene.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a special meeting Tuesday evening at 6:00 in the Auditorium at 202 N. Washington Street to consider Resolution No. 24-2025, regarding the donation of city-owned property to the Salem Housing Authority for the development of 40 affordable housing units. Mayor Greg Parker was not in attendance. Following roll call and approval of the agenda, Alderman Michael Letchworth addressed the public, noting that the Board had received numerous emails opposing the resolution. The emails proposed opening the floor for public comment but he clarified that the meeting was not a Town Hall, and therefore public comments or questions would not be heard at that time. However, he encouraged residents to submit their input via email, assuring them that someone would follow up. Letchworth then asked attendees to indicate their position on the resolution by standing, with the count resulting in eight opposed and eight in favor. The Board proceeded with a brief presentation from the developer, who outlined the reasoning behind the project. After the first and second readings of Resolution No. 24-2025, Letchworth called for a vote, and the resolution passed, with Alderwoman Catherine Dent casting the sole dissenting vote.

A pit bull named Bronx was euthanized August 18th following a court-ordered destruction after the dog attacked Bryan Smith on County Road 5140 on June 8th. Smith required 14 stitches for his injuries. The dog escaped through an unsecured gate from a fenced enclosure owned by Jeannie Bates and attacked Smith on his own property. Dent County Sheriff’s deputies seized the animal and provided Bates with a Notice of Disposal on June 9th. Under Missouri Revised Statute 578.024, dogs that attack and cause serious injury must be seized immediately and destroyed after a 10-day impoundment period. The law also makes it a crime to keep a dangerous dog that has previously bitten someone and bites again. Penalties range from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class D felony depending on the severity of injuries and whether the dog has a history of attacks. Bates filed an appeal June 18th, which allows owners to contest the destruction in circuit court. The case was specially assigned to 25th Circuit Judge Brendon Fox after two local judges recused themselves. A trial was held July 14th with Prosecutor Andrew M. Curley representing the sheriff’s office. Judge Fox found the dog attacked without provocation and caused serious injury. He ordered the sheriff to humanely euthanize the animal as required by state law. Evidence presented at trial showed the dog had previously shown aggression toward others and had repeatedly escaped its enclosure. Since there was no evidence the dog had previously bitten another person, no criminal charges were filed under the statute. Prosecutor Curley emphasized the responsibility of owners to maintain control of their animals to prevent harm to others.

With the start of the new school year, the Salem Police Department is urging drivers to stay alert and use extra caution in and around school zones. Officers say motorists can expect to see increased foot traffic in the mornings and afternoons as students make their way to and from school. Police are reminding drivers to slow down in designated school zones, watch for children at bus stops, and obey all traffic laws when driving near school buses. The department also says officers will have a visible presence in school zones to help ensure drivers are following the rules and keeping kids safe. The Salem Police Department would like to wish the students, parents, and teachers a safe and successful school year. They encourage everyone to stay focused, work hard, and remember that determination will lead to success. For more updates from the Salem Police Department, follow them on Facebook or contact the department directly at 573-729-6550.

The Dent County Commissioners held their 2025 tax rate hearing Monday morning at 10:00 at the courthouse. Amanda Sapaugh was present at the public hearing. The General Revenue tax rate for 2024 was $0.0171 cents per $100 assessed valuation. For 2025 after the rollback was calculated, the tax rate came to $0.0397 per $100 assessed valuation which the commissioners approved. Amanda Sapaugh representing the SB 40 Board said their board wanted to keep their tax rate the same as last year with a voluntary reduction to $0.1341 per $100 assessed valuation. The current maximum tax rate ceiling for 2025 set by the state auditor for SB 40 is $0.1343 per $100 assessed valuation. The lower rate was approved by the commission. The Road and Bridge Fund tax rate last year was 25.50 cents per $100 assessed valuation. The commission went with the recommended rate by the state auditor of 25.53 cents per $100 assessed valuation for 2025. The Senior Citizen Service Fund tax rate for 2024 came in at 4.80 cents per $100 assessed valuation. The maximum rate allowed by the state auditor’s office came in at 4.81 cents per $100 assessed valuation for 2025 which the commission approved. The hearing was then adjourned. 

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released some reports for the week of August 9th through the 15th. On August 9th, deputies attempted to perform a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling on East Highway 32-72 near Doss Road. A multi-county pursuit ensued and the suspect, a 40-year-old Bunker man, was eventually apprehended. The suspect was transported to the Dent County Jail, where a capias arrest warrant was issued for the man. On Thursday, August 14th, deputies took a report for lost or stolen cattle from the 1100 block of Route B. That investigation is pending. On Friday, August 15th, deputies conducted a traffic stop on Highway 19 at Phil-Mart. The operator, a 44-year-old Salem man, was arrested, booked and released for failure to maintain financial responsibility on the vehicle. Also on Friday, Dent County deputies assisted EMS with a call in the 3000 block of Highway 68. During the course of the call, a significant amount of illegal narcotics was discovered. A 40-year-old Salem woman was then arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail pending the issuance of formal charges. If you have any information about an ongoing investigation, please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Department at 573-729-3241.

The FY2025 State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) Regionalization Grant application period is closing soon on August 22nd at 5:00 pm. Local and state government, emergency response agencies and nonprofits are encouraged to apply. SHSP is designed to enhance the capabilities of state and local governments as well as nonprofits in preventing, protecting against, and responding to terrorist attacks. This program is a part of a comprehensive set of measures authorized by Congress and implemented by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to strengthen the nation’s communities against potential terrorist threats. Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) facilitates the Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee (RHSOC). Each RHSOC across the state is given a certain amount of funding to be awarded as grants as part of the SHSP. For FY 2025, Region I (Crawford, Dent, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Laclede counties) is receiving approximately $70,693.38 for regional projects. Those interested in applying can visit https://dpsgrants.dps.mo.gov/. For more information, contact Samantha Sherman at 573-265-2993 or via email at ssherman@meramecregion.org.  

The Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) has introduced a significantly upgraded version of its virtual assistant, “DORA,” adding artificial intelligence capabilities to enhance customer service. First launched in 2019, DORA has been providing 24/7 assistance to Missourians on topics such as taxation, motor vehicles, and driver licensing. Since its debut, the chatbot has handled more than 11 million inquiries across 2.6 million sessions. The new AI-powered version expands DORA’s ability to address more complex questions while delivering faster and more accurate responses. Drawing on content from the DOR website, the system now offers broader, more relevant information tailored to customer needs. The enhancement also strengthens DORA’s integration with the department’s live chat service. This allows for quicker resolution of issues and enables a smooth transition to a live customer service representative when necessary. According to the department, the improvements are part of an ongoing effort to streamline operations, reduce costs, and provide more efficient public service. Residents can access the updated DORA platform by visiting dor.mo.gov.

The “Listening to Americans” townhall meeting will be held at the Leach Theatre in Rolla on Tuesday evening August 26th from 6:30 till 8:30. The townhall is sponsored by Voters for Informed Action. For any questions or comments please email: voteria2025@gmail.com

Do you need a place to spread your crafts out, or do you hate crafting alone? There is a place for you! This upcoming Sunday as well as August 31st from 2:00 in the afternoon until 6:00 in the evening the Creative Arts Center will be doing general crafts. Bring your supplies and hang out. Just enjoy spending time with other crafty people. You do have to have all your own supplies and only the front room and bathrooms will be available.  A donation is appreciated to go towards utilities. No children without an adult please. Nicole Curtis will be there to assist participants age 16-years-old and older.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will hold a special meeting this evening at 6:00 in the Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington St to discuss Resolution No. 24-2025 regarding a donation of property by the City of Salem to the Housing Authority of the City of Salem for the development of 40 affordable housing units. This meeting is open to the public. 

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said materials would be added where needed and grading done on Dent County Roads 4080, 5450, 5460 and 5465. He indicated brush would be cut on county road 5600, and the Blevins Paving will be doing chip and seal patching on county roads 5015, 5080 and 5085. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported workers will be adding rock and grading on Dent County Roads 2120 and 4405, while only grading will be done on county roads 2130, 4400 and 5260. Williams said brush will be cut on county roads 2075. and 2080. He also stated that a grader blade will be changed out on grader #42. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson attended the TAC meeting, External Relations Committee meeting and regular MRPC meeting Thursday in St. James. Larson reported it was announced that Federal Land Access Program funds are available for low-water crossings adjacent to federal forest land and it is a 100% reimbursement. He said they have three million dollars available. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported on the Missouri Association of Counties Board meeting she attended last week. She said there were discussions about the lack of newspaper publications in some rural areas to meet the required public notice laws, discussion on mental health programs, the need of a rural transportation system, received a report from Trent Watson on legislative issues, heard about state redistricting, heard about petition reform, heard about educating 9-1-1 operators using artificial intelligence, and also heard from attorney Travis Elliott about the Supreme Court decision on marijuana tax issues passed by cities and counties and how the taxes are to be collected. At the last meeting, the commission approved County Surveyor Elwood to move forward with the remonumentation of eight county corners. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The Salem Police Department will be testing the storm sirens this Wednesday morning at 10:00. If there is inclement weather, the test will be postponed to the following Wednesday morning, the 27th, at 10:00.

The Enhanced Enterprise Zone Board for Salem and Dent County will hold its annual meeting on Thursday evening August 21st at 5:00 at the Salem Community Center – The Armory in the Rotary Room. The tentative agenda is as follows call to order, approval of agenda items, approval of last years minutes, review and approval of annual filing statement. Other business includes EEZ recertification and City of Salem Mo Economic Development Director.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting Thursday at 5:30 in the R-80 Board Room. After the Call to Order and the Pledge of Allegiance the Board will approve the agenda followed by a vote to appoint a Board Member to fill a vacancy. The Board will then approve an appointee to serve until the April election. The consent agenda will be approved followed by communications. In the Superintendent’s Report CSIP Goals will be addressed in all reports, updates will be shared on the FEMA building, the Football Field drainage, parking lots and roofs. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, High School, Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, and Maintenance. In new business, after the second reading the board will approve the MSBA policy updates to leaves and vacation, the First Student Transportation contract for ECSE, the LTE & Public Placement Fund Addendum, and the 2024-2025 Annual Secretary of the Board report. The Board will address the hiring of Sarah Wells ECSE personal aide, Heather Whitlock classroom paraprofessional at UE, Lynn Mast aide, and Codee Sagdalen UE aide, plus the resignation/retirement of Molly Toothaker WL paraprofessional. There will be a tax rate presentation followed by public comments and adoption. The Board will enter closed session to discuss personnel, followed by adjournment after returning to open session. The regular meeting of the Salem R80 Board of Education is open to the public.

This upcoming Sunday and Monday from 5:30 in the evening until 8:00 join Terrie Welch in a two day Barn Quilt class. You will draw a quilt block design of your choice on a sanded and primed 2’x2′ piece of plywood. You will then tape off areas to create sharp-edged lines and paint it with chosen colors of house paint.  When you finish, you will want to take and proudly gift it or display it on your barn or home! The class is for participants 13-years-old and older. The cost is $55 per person and all supplies are included. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then Creative Arts Center.

An accident occurred in Phelps County Wednesday evening at approximately 6:06 on Highway 63, five miles south of Rolla. According to the Highway Patrol report a 2024 KIA Telluride, driven by a 43-year-old Salem man, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a culvert, and overturned. The driver, a 6-year-old female passenger, and a 13-year-old female passenger, all suffered minor injuries. The man and the 13-year-old were both transported by EMS to Phelps Health Hospital, while the 6-year-old was taken to Phelps Health by private conveyance. The report stated that the 6-year-old female was the only one in the vehicle wearing a safety restraint. The KIA was totaled and removed from the scene by D & D Towing.

The Salem Police Department has announced it is now accepting applications for the position of Animal Control/Code Enforcement Officer. The role offers an annual salary ranging from $38,084 to $45,510. The position comes with a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, vacation and sick leave, paid holidays and overtime, LAGERS L-6 retirement, provided uniforms and gear, and free gym membership. New hires will also receive training and a $1.15 per hour night shift differential. Applicants must possess a valid Missouri driver’s license, hold a high school diploma or equivalent, and be able to pass a background check, drug screening, and criminal history review. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age and willing to work all shifts. For more information, interested individuals can contact Lt. Jonathon Counts at (573) 729-4242 or jcounts@salemmo.com.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Missouri Geological Survey presented research on critical minerals during the fifth annual Resilient Supply of Critical Minerals workshop August 6-7 at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla. The two-day workshop brought hundreds of geologists, engineers, academics and industry members to Rolla for networking and collaboration on critical minerals research. Missouri hosts 30 of the 50 critical minerals identified by the U.S. Geological Survey. The Missouri Geological Survey currently has multiple projects studying potentially viable critical mineral deposits across Missouri. Critical minerals are essential for modern devices and technological systems but are susceptible to supply chain disruptions. Survey geologist Cheryl Seeger is leading the critical mineral studies. The geologic data gathered will also be useful for local developments, conservation projects and other uses beyond critical minerals research. The workshop included a tour of the Missouri Geological Survey’s Rolla campus, featuring the renovated rock lab that processes well cuttings to safeguard water quality and the McCracken Core Library with more than 8 million feet of subsurface geological materials. New rock core scanners purchased in partnership with Missouri S&T will be used to study critical minerals at underground sites. More information on critical minerals in Missouri is available at dnr.mo.gov/land-geology/geology/rocks-minerals-fossils/critical.

Summer days sign n wine with Danielle Norris is happening at the Creative Arts Center this Friday from 6:00 in the evening until 9:00. Create your one-of-a-kind front porch sign, or a square sign to be used inside or outside! Theres of stencils to choose from and are adding more all the time! All supplies provided you just bring snacks and a beverage! You will be taught how to make the sign with teacher assistance. Porch leaners are $30 and a square 15×15 sign is $32. A minimum of 6 people is needed to hold the class and a maximum of 16. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

It has been just over a year that Brooke Bollman was named the Salem Memorial Hospital Chief Executive Officer. This Wednesday, Bollman sat down for an interview with Stan Stevens to discuss her first year at the helm and what has happened over the last 12 months from the negotiations with Phelps Health, to the paying down of accounts payable, to creating a “Culture of Caring” prioritizing patient care and workforce retention, plus much more. She also discusses possible future impacts of the “Big Beautiful Bill” for rural hospitals. Listen on AM 1340 or 95.7 FM starting at 8:30 this morning, or you can listen to the interview anytime online on ksmoradio.com on the KSMO YouTube Page or KSMO Stream Facebook page.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said materials would be added where needed and grading done on Dent County Roads 4080, 5440 and 5500. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers will be adding rock and grading Dent County Road 5260 in Boss which received extensive damage from the last heavy rain. His crew will also be grading 2140 and 2155, while brush will be cut on county road 2070. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson stated he participated in an interview with MRPC’s Jill Hollowell on KSMO Radio Tuesday morning about the electronic and tire waste recycling collection that will be held September 13th at the City of Salem Water and Sewer Construction Building at 3rd and Grand Streets. That interview will be rebroadcast in September and can be heard on the KSMO YouTube Page. You can find it by clicking on the “home” button. Larson then attended the TAC meeting at the MRPC in St. James Thursday followed by the External Relations Committee and the regular Meramec Regional Planning Commission meeting. Deputy Clerk Melissa Piatt said bills would be paid. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 with the tax rate hearing for the General Revenue Fund, the Road and Bridge Fund, the Senate Bill 40 Fund and the Senior Citizens Service Fund to follow at 10:00. The meeting and hearing are open to the public.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at the Fire station at #2 South Main. After the call to order and roll call, the Board amended the agenda new business to include Friends of Dent County Fire. The Board approved the consent agenda, reviewed and approved the minutes from the previous meeting, reviewed the financial report which showed an ending balance of $340,821.90, reviewed and approved the bills, payments and statements, plus the budget was reviewed and approved. In the tax rate hearing it was pointed out that the current tax rate was at 0.2377 and that the maximum legal rate in compliance with Missouri laws is 0.2382. The Board decided to take a voluntary reduction in the bond percentage from the state allowed 0.2959 to 0.2300 since that was the number given to the voters. The Board voted to set the new tax rate at 0.2382 and bond at 0.2300. The Monthly Reimbursement Report showed a total of 14 calls for July and a total of 171 year-to-date. John Knight will look into different options for the Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease and report back. In new business Resolution 0812-2025 for MEC filing was read followed by a roll call vote for President Mike Godi to sign and Treasurer Dave Wells to file the registration with the State of Missouri MEC Commission. Three trucks were declared surplus, which included the 2002 Sterling Tanker with 2,000 gallon tank, 1995 Freightliner Firemaster Pumper with 1500 GPM pump and 1,000 gallon tank, and the 1993 International Tanker with a 2,500 gallon tank. Bids for equipment were opened and the Board voted to accept the bid from Kinder Farm Supply in Licking for bed and bumper, THL Fire Equipment for 2 Skid Units, and Scenic Rivers Vehicle Outfitters for light-bar, antenna wiring including labor and connection to repeater system, and siren setup. Previous Conoco fuel cards no longer work so the department will be going to new cards. The bid from A&W Communications was approved for the radio for Truck #8010. The closing of Friends of Dent County Fire was discussed and the Bond Steering Committee will be meeting to close final minutes and finances in the near future. Chief Dennis Floyd reported that the Dent County Health Center will be having a vaccination clinic at the station on October 2nd. The next meeting date was set for September 9th, at 6:00 at the DCFPD Boardroom. The Board went into closed session to discuss personnel, but no votes were reported. The meeting and tax rate hearing were adjourned at 9:38.

Salem Memorial Hospital will hold a public hearing on Tuesday evening, August 25, 2025, at 7:00 in the hospital library to discuss the proposed property tax rate for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2026. The hospital is proposing to keep the rate the same as last year of $0.2400 for every $100, which is expected to bring in about $668,204 in revenue.

An accident occurred Wednesday morning around 10:30 in Crawford County on Mo 19 about 5 miles north of Cuba. According to the highway patrol report a 2007 Hyundai Tiburon driven by an 18-year-old Female from St. James was traveling southbound and travelled off the right side of the roadway and struck a guardrail. The Hyundai returned to the roadway then travelled off the left side of the roadway and struck a guardrail, before coming to rest on the right side of the road. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to Missouri Baptist Sullivan by North Crawford Ambulance. The report says she was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Hyundai sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by Chris and Son’s Towing. The highway patrol was assisted by the Cuba Fire Department and the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen held a workshop on Tuesday evening at 5:30, in the Auditorium located at 202 N. Washington Street, prior to the start of their regular meeting, to discuss action to be taken regarding vacant buildings within city limits. Following the call to order, pledge of allegiance, and prayer, the Board approved the agenda and consent agenda. Mayor Greg Parker recommended appointing ten individuals to the Community Involvement Committee; the motion carried, with Alderman John Whelan casting the only dissenting vote. The Board conducted the first and second readings of Bill No. 3682, allowing the city to continue operating under the Missouri Ethics Commission’s conflict-of-interest requirements, and Bill No. 3684, a change order from Archer-Elgin Engineering for the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Phase 2A project. The change order includes elevating the VFD controls on a platform to protect against future flooding and raising the UV system pad above flood level. The total cost of these changes is $49,647.00, and both bills passed unanimously. The Board also heard the first reading of Bill No. 3683, proposing a 2025 tax levy of $0.06780 per $100 of assessed valuation on real estate and personal property within city limits for general revenue purposes. Under new and miscellaneous business, the Board approved revisions to the Demolition Policy and Agreement, specifying that the city will cover only the costs of dumpsters, transportation, and tipping fees for asbestos removal, and will no longer require inspections by individual homeowners, once these remediations have been conducted. These changes aim to reduce costs and shorten project timelines for property owners. Kylie Clift and Jamie Cantrell were granted approval for a Mobile Home Park License. The Board also awarded several bids:  A bid from SASCO for a new Graco Paint Striping Machine in the amount of $5,999.00 that will be paid out of the Street Department Capital Improvement Fund, there is  $6,600 budgeted for this item; a bid from Fletcher-Reinhardt Company in the amount of $9,881.25 for 75 LED Luminaire dusk to dawn street lights, which will be paid out of the electric department’s street light fund; a $6,195.00 bid from Sunbelt Solomon for the purchase of a single phase pad mount 100kVA transformer for the Doss Road Cell Tower project, which will come out of the electric department’s transformer fund; a bid from Luby Shoring Services in the amount of $9,347.00 for shoring equipment that will increase team member safety in trenching situations. This will be evenly paid from the water and WWTP budget; and a bid for the purchase of 15 HP Elite Mini 800 Desktops for $13,275.00, that will replace the current desktops at the Administration Building, as well as in the Electric, Water, Wastewater, Construction, Streets, and Parks and Recreation Departments. There is $35,000 in the CIP budget for the purchase of new desktops, monitors, and installation of these desktops. After the reports of the city officials, the meeting entered executive session to discuss legal matters and contract negotiations, before adjourning.

Come and learn how to finger knit a large lap throw or chunky blanket.  Bring a friend and make it a party at the Creative Arts Center with Danielle Norris this Friday August 15th from 5:00 in the evening until 8:00. Ages 10 and are welcome. This is a beginner friendly class and is fun for all ages! No prior crochet or knitting experience is required but will be beneficial. Colors and patterns will be provided. The cost is $75. A minimum of 5 people is needed to hold the class and a maximum of 12. To sign up, go to the SACBA website, click on “Programs” link and then on the Creative Arts Center.

At the Dent County Commission meeting Monday morning, Deloris Gray Wood and Mary Beth Cook were in attendance to ask the commissioners to move the Dent County Courthouse Birthday celebration from September to Saturday, October 4th starting at 10:00 in the morning. They asked permission to use the courthouse lawn, surrounding streets, provide electric and allow them to monitor the parking areas. They also got business cards from each commissioner as a contact person for the event. The commission was good with the date change. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said materials would be added where needed and grading done on Dent County Roads 4080, 5380, 5580 and 5360, while brush will be cut on county road 5600. He also said a crew would be working with riprap on Dent County Road 6580 to shore up the banks where washouts have occurred. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams said workers will be adding rock and grading Dent County Roads 2020, 2030, 2040 and 4330, while other crew members will be changing the grader blade on Grader #37. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson had nothing to report and Deputy Clerk Melissa Piatt said payroll would be done. Dent County Collector Shannon VanKirk came in and reported the cost of the software update for the Dent County Collector’s office to accommodate the Senior Tax Credit came in at $13,500 which is about $5,000 less than expected. The county commission approved paying the bill. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem, is inviting applications for a range of critical municipal roles, offering an exciting opportunity for qualified individuals to contribute to the community’s well-being. Most notably, the city is actively recruiting an Electric Line Superintendent, a pivotal leadership position responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and strategic development of Salem’s electric distribution system. This full-time role, open until filled, requires a minimum of eight years of lineman experience—at least five of which must be in a supervisory capacity—as well as journeyman lineman certification and a valid Missouri Class B CDL. The successful candidate must demonstrate strong leadership skills, regulatory and safety compliance, project management prowess, and the ability to mentor and coordinate crews in both routine and emergency situations. Compensation ranges from $37.64 an hour to $44.99 an hour, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition to this specialized utility position, the city website lists two additional employment opportunities, a Water Department General Laborer, and Seasonal Cemetery Maintenance Worker. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult the full job listings or contact the Public Works Director Steve Paine at 573-729-4811 ext 110 or via email at publicworks@salemmo.com  for more comprehensive information. Applicants should submit a resume, completed application, and copies of relevant certifications to Tammy Koller, City Clerk, via email to cityclerk@salemmo.com. Whether ensuring the reliability of the electric grid or supporting the water distribution infrastructure, these roles are foundational to the community’s safety and quality of life. Ambitious professionals with relevant experience are encouraged to consider these opportunities promptly, as the city continues its search until suitable candidates are selected.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will meet this evening, at the Fire Station #2 South Main in Salem. The meeting will begin at 6:00 with the call to order, roll call, and approval of the consent agenda, which will include review of the minutes, the financial report and approval of bills, and the budget review. The monthly reimbursement report will be reviewed followed by old business, which will include the Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease, which was tabled last month. New business to be considered will include the tax rate hearing, MEC Resolution, the sale of old trucks, and brush truck bids for equipment beds, skid units, and lighting. Other new business items will include fuel cards, truck radio for #8010, and budget requests. Chief Floyd will give his report followed by setting the date for the next meeting. Prior to adjournment the Board may go in to closed session to discuss personnel.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will hold a workshop today at 5:30 before their regular meeting, where they will discuss vacant buildings within the community. During their regular meeting, the board will hold a public hearing to discuss the annexation of property in the 1000-1200 block of W. Roosevelt-Adams St, and the 2025 tax rates. The board will then approve the agenda and consent agenda and hear public comments. They will then hear first and second readings of Bill No. 3682 regarding conflicts of interest, Bill No. 3684 regarding Phase 2A improvements at the waste water treatment facility, and Bill No. regarding the 2025 tax levy. New business items include discussion and approvals related to the city’s demolition policy, a mobile home park license, and multiple equipment purchases such as a paint sprayer, streetlights, a transformer, wastewater shoring equipment, and a new desktop computer. Reports from city officials will be presented before the board enters a closed session to discuss legal matters and certain contract negotiations, followed by adjournment.

A Bunker man is facing multiple charges after authorities say he led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit from Salem into Iron County late Saturday night. According to the Dent County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began on August 9, 2025, at approximately 11:00 p.m., when deputies on routine patrol clocked a vehicle traveling 103 miles per hour in a 35 mile-per-hour zone within the City of Salem. Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver refused to pull over, prompting a pursuit east on Highway 32 into Iron County. The chase came to an end near Belleview when the suspect’s vehicle crashed and suffered a mechanical failure. Deputies said the driver, identified as 40-year-old Benjamin Smith of Bunker, was tased and taken into custody. A warrant application was submitted to the Dent County Prosecutor’s Office, and on August 10, 2025, Judge Kelsaw issued a no-bond warrant for Smith. He is charged with aggravated fleeing a stop or detention, driving while intoxicated, careless and imprudent driving involving an accident, failing to drive on the right half of the roadway resulting in an accident, driving in the center lane of a three-lane roadway, and three counts of exceeding the posted speed limit by 26 miles per hour or more. The Dent County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Salem Police Department, Iron County Sheriff’s Office, Iron County Ambulance District, and the Pilot Knob Fire Department. Authorities note that the charges are merely accusations and that Smith is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.