Local News

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.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Office has released the following reports. On Wednesday, August 8th, Deputies took a report for a violation of an Ex-Parte Order of Protection. The victim, a 40-year-old Jadwin man, advised his ex-girlfriend, a 37-year-old Salem woman, has violated the order he has against her. The investigation is ongoing. The next day, which was Thursday the 8th, Deputies responded to 3500 block of County Road 6510 for a reported wanted subject. During the course of the investigation, a 55-year-old Salem man was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated on the warrant. Then on Monday, August 12th, a 58-year-old Salem woman reported she had property that was damaged while in the 400 block of County Road 2380. She advised her paramour, a 59-year-old Salem man, was the suspect and the investigation is ongoing. Finally, on Thursday, August 15th, Deputies took a report for a stolen motorcycle. The victim, a 30-year-old Salem man, advised a known subject was refusing to return the victim’s motorcycle. The investigation is ongoing. Please contact the Dent County Sheriff’s Office at (573) 729-3241 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

Between July 20th and August 2nd there were a total of 269 calls for service to the Salem Police Department. Officers conducted 27 traffic stops for various traffic violations with 6 resulting in a summons or arrest. Officers conducted 3 traffic accident investigations along with 11 informational reports. The calls for service generated the following reports. On Saturday, July 20th, at approximately 8:00 in the evening officers with the Salem Police Department arrested 21-year-old Jordan Sanders of Salem for active warrants out of the Phelps County Sheriffs Office for possession of controlled substance and unlawful possession of a weapon. Sanders was transported to the Dent County Jail to await extradition with a $25,000 cash or surety bond. Then on Sunday, the 21st, at approximately 5:30 in the evening officers were dispatched to the 300 block of west Eighth Street for a report of a disturbance and possible overdoses. Officers arrived and located a female subject completely naked and acting very erratic and under the influence of narcotics. The female assaulted an officer after being given a lawful order. Subsequently a 20-year-old Salem female was placed under arrest. The female subject continued to struggle but was restrained without injury and incarcerated at the Dent County Jail on a 24-hour hold pending the application of warrants. On Thursday, July 25th, at approximately 11:36 in the morning officers were dispatched to the 1000 block of East Center for a report of a US Postal worker being attacked by 5 or 6 dogs as per witnesses. An investigation into the incident was conducted, and officers met with the victim at the hospital where he was treated for his wounds and injuries. Subsequently contact was made with the owner of the dogs involved and the dogs were seized for quarantine. Summons were issued to the owners of the dogs for Dogs at Large. Further investigation led to other forms of evidence such as partial video of the attack confirming 5 dogs attacking the victim. The victim sustained serious physical injuries from the attack. Finally on Tuesday, July 30th, just after midnight, at approximately 12:30, officers contacted a female subject operating a vehicle matching the description of an ongoing burglary investigation. As a result of the stop, it was found the female subject was under the influence of alcohol. Subsequently a 27-year-old Salem female was arrested and later released on summons to appear in court. Please contact the Salem Police Department at (573) 729-4242 if you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation.

An accident happened in Crawford County Tuesday evening at 11:16 on Highway 8 about a mile and a half west of Steelville. According to the highway patrol report,  a 2011 Ford F-150 driven westbound by 19-year-old Hunter Ransom of Steelville, traveled off the left side of the roadway where the Ford struck an embankment and became airborne before overturning. A 17-year-old male juvenile passenger suffered minor injuries and was taken by the Steelville Ambulance to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. The Ford F-150 was totaled and removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) is hosting two mentored dove hunts on September 1 at Woodson K. Woods Conservation Area near Saint James. The first hunt, from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., is designed for four mobility impaired individuals aged 18 and older. MDC mentors will assist participants, and track chairs will be provided. The second hunt, also from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., is for six first-time dove hunters aged 18 to 34. Both hunts require advance registration by noon on August 23. Participants must have a Hunter Education Certificate, Small Game Hunting Permit, and Migratory Bird Hunting Permit. MDC will provide shotguns, shells, safety equipment, and lunch, though hunters may bring their own 12 or 20-gauge shotguns. The events will include instruction on dove management and practice shooting clay targets. Registered participants will receive detailed information by August 26. For more information or to register, interested individuals can visit the MDC website or contact Conservation Educator Dwight Warnke at Dwight.Warnke@mdc.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse without Commissioner Wes Mobray who had previous commitments. In the road report, Jason Akins who was sitting in for Commissioner Mobray said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5620, 6410, 6633 and 6670, while brush would be cut on county road 4220. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and grading on Dent County Roads 4050, 4380 and 5260, while only grading would be done on county roads 4055. Polk said man would be going to Springfield to get oil for the Durapatcher for chip and seal repair. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he will be attending the tourism tax committee meeting that will be held today at 5:00 at the Chamber of Commerce Office. He also said he had the results of the survey from the Salem News on the issue of senior citizens property tax credit associated with Senate Bill 190. Larson did not go into specifics except to say that it appears the people want the commission to move forward and adopt the provisions of Senate Bill 190. Larson said the new bill will not go into effect until August 28th and will wait to discuss how the commission will move forward when Commission Mobray is back in the office. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said from her MAC meeting she attended Thursday that 14 counties have adopted the Senate Bill 190 to date and Dent County had the only petition. She did mention that if the petitioners are going to submit another petition, they need to get it turned into the commissioners no later than this Thursday morning to give her office time to verify the signatures, an then she could get it back to the commissioners on Monday for their decision. The petition has to be submitted to the Secretary of State by Tuesday next week to be placed on the ballot. Collector Shannon VanKirk said the tax sale will be held Monday on the courthouse steps starting at 10:00. This year she said there are real estate properties and one mineral rights property to be auctioned off. VanKirk said those who want to bid at the tax sale auction should come into the Collector’s office at the courthouse and register ahead of time which will save time at the auction. When you come to her office to sign up, you must bring your driver’s license. The next commission meeting will be tomorrow 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 beginning at 10:00. The meeting and the hearing are open to the public.

On the evening of August 15, the Salem R-80 Board of Education held their annual tax rate hearing at 5:15. They approved a continuation of the district’s current tax rate of $3.20 per $100 of assessed valuation. This includes a $2.75 operating levy and a $0.45 debt service levy. The decision was unanimous. The board then moved into open session of their regular monthly meeting. Superintendent Nathan Wills provided several updates as the administration prepares for a new school year. He first addressed the FEMA project, reporting that almost all of the sub-contractors are approved and they’re waiting for the prefabricated walls to be completed, overall the project is moving along according to schedule. The City of Salem has been working with the school to get power to the Construction Trades Building, upon hook-up the school will get an electrician in so new equipment can be installed. Roof repairs across district buildings are scheduled to start at the end of the month. Wills also expressed gratitude for donations received from community members, including a contribution to teachers by Nikki Tiefenthaler and a donation from George and Liz Gruendel. After reports from school administrators, which mainly covered staff and facility preparations, the board approved several new motions. These motions all passed unanimously, the 2024-2025 School Calendar, Tax Rate Adoption, 2024-2025 Emergency Response Plan, Pest Control bid, Evaluate contract, and the declaration of surplus property, specifically old band uniforms. Additionally, the board accepted the resignation of Suzette Stephens. At 5:38 the board moved into closed session, and according to the minutes released by the school, the board discussed personnel, student issues and approved the hiring of Cody Woody as interim head softball coach and Judy Ragsdale as interim assistant softball coach. Other topics discussed regarded ancillary services, and real estate. The meeting concluded at 6:31.

The City of Salem Utility Committee held their regular meeting on Wednesday August 14th at 6:15 in the Auditorium. The committee approved the agenda as well as the minutes from the July 10, 2024 meeting. During the Reports and Updates portion of the meeting Stacy Houston provided the financial updates on which are on average are down from this time last year. During the Billing Updates, the utilities department sent out 2,531 total bills 103 customers signed up for email billing, 340 paid online, and 369 have their accounts on auto draft and 231 people have opted out of the serve line. A question was asked if there was a system in place to remind customers that their bill is due at a certain time. Administrator Sally Burbridge explained that if customers would like a reminder about their bill payment, they can sign up for Text alerts by texting the word “UTILITY” to 855-435-4811. In the work reports from utility crews. Steve Payne gave a detailed report on the wastewater update from the last few weeks, which had already been reported during the Alderman Board meeting on August 14. He did state that he has been in contact with the Water Superintendent stating they are working on getting a sand particulate filtration system for Well 8, which currently pumps turbid water. He clarified that when the boil water advisory was issued over the weekend of August 10th, there was no sewage in the water, it was just turbidity due to low water pressure that could have put someone at risk. A committee member asked how does the water company get that information out to the public, in a timely manner. Steve explained when there is an issue with the water, such as a boil water advisory, They contact the local radio stations, they make a post on social media, and they reach out to local news outlets. Citizens can sign up for City Announcements via Text alerts by texting the word CITY to 855-435-4811. Sally Burbridge then provided the update on the MMMPEP meeting held on July 30th. She stated the City of Salem is on their list to have them look into the infrastructure and provide an audit on any deficiencies and areas of improvement. The city is also looking for an electric prepay option, similar to the natural gas prepay option they currently provide. The committee then moved on to discussing water meter fees, where committee member John Hambacker stated he is working on a proposal for replacing the service fee for 4 and 6 inch meters to $75 and $150 a month respectively, with no change to service fees for meters less than 4 inches. The committee agreed to table this proposal for a month, until they can get sufficient feedback from the currently approved rate increase. During the questions and comments portion of the meeting, a citizen asked about the Emergency Alert siren, Sally answered that MRPC is currently working on writing a grant to replace our current system. Several citizens mentioned experiencing a considerable jump in their utility bills due to leaks and asked what was being done about that problem. She explained that they are in the process of streamlining their billing process. They run reports each month, before bills go out so they can identify any potential leaks and notify residents. She stated the new meters use a doppler effect for reading usage and as such are more sensitive and accurate than the old meters, which had a history of reading lower usage. Customers with grievances were advised to go into the utility office and discuss this matter in person. The meeting adjourned at 8:09pm.

An accident happened Saturday morning at 10:47 in Franklin County on Interstate 44 westbound at the 232.2 mile marker. According to the highway patrol report, 24-year-old Christian Sgroi of Salem, was operating a black 2024 Suzuki and traveling westbound on Interstate 44 when Sgroi avoided a collision with another vehicle. Sgroi lost control and the Suzuki traveled off the right side of the road and overturned, ejecting Sgroi. Both the Suzuki and Sgroi came to rest off the north side of the roadway. Sgroi suffered serious injuries and was taken to the Mercy Hospital in St. Louis by the St. Clair Ambulance District. The Suzuki was totaled and removed from the scene by Chuck’s Towing.

An accident happened in Phelps County Saturday afternoon at 5:22 on Route F at Highway 72. According to the highway patrol report, a 2016 Ford F-150 driven eastbound by 47-year-old Gregory Gibbs of Rolla, went off the left side of the Route F and struck a tree. Gibbs suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Phelps Health by the Phelps Health Ambulance. Gibbs was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident. The Ford sustained minor damage and removed from the scene by Tunes Towing.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse with special guests Salem Memorial Hospital CEO Brooke Bollman and Hospital Executive Secretary Hannah Harris, and Dent County Fire Protection District Chief Dennis Floyd and fire board secretary Dave Wells, plus Tad Headrick and Collector Shannon VanKirk. The discussion was centered around Senate Bill 190 and the effects it could have on all entities. Wells stated that any reduction in taxes to the entities would be detrimental especially with new state regulations and mandates that put a further burden on the entities. Collector VanKirk said if the county adopted an ordinance, they would have to define the meaning of the term “homestead” and what that would entail, for example just a house that is their principal domicile, or other land and structures, etc. She said they would also have to phrase the definition not to include investment property. The amount of credit to be determined would be based on the assessed value of that definition. She reported that she calculated 22.3% of registered voters are 65 years of age or older in Dent County, but with the Senate Bill 756 update that lowered the qualifying age to 62, she estimated that number to be closer to 25%. With Dent County having 3,948 some registered voters 62 or over, VanKirk said she expected no more than 1,200 would be eligible. If adopted, VanKirk said the county would set up a time to apply, probably from April 1st to June 30th, to give the county time to check each applicant. Also, many seniors do not own real estate or live in subsidized senior housing, and they would not qualify. Each applicant would have to fill out a form, provide a copy of their driver’s license or ID and a copy of the deed from the recorder’s office. This process would have to be repeated every year to get the Homestead Credit.  Collector VanKirk said many seniors can use Form 948 to receive a state tax credit, but there are income limitations to receive that credit. She also said that bonds and the State Blind Pension Fund are exempt from the reduction. VanKirk also wanted to say a raise in the tax rate would NOT change the value of the homestead credit dollar figure, but it would on ALL the other property or other real estate. The number of people who would apply for the Homestead Credit is unknown and the amount of money that would be lost by any entity is also unknown. Salem Hospital CEO Bollman said she wanted to clarify that any loss of income to the hospital during this time of financial crisis is critical for any reason, and this Homestead Credit tax reduction on its own would not close the hospital, but it could definitely help contribute to the financial struggles. The hospital also gets tax monies from Shannon, Iron and Crawford counties and those dollars could also be affected by what those counties do. The commission said they want to do what is best for the county and there is currently a poll on Senate Bill 190 online at salemnewsonline.com. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Roads 6660 and 6670, while only grading would be done on county roads 5070, 5075 and 5650. Mobray said brush would be cut on county road 4220. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and grading on Dent County Road 5260 and 3335, while only grading would be done on county roads 3330, 3333, 3334 and 3337. Polk said brush would be cut on county roads 5320 and 5325. The next commission meeting will be this morning at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has announced several road maintenance projects for Dent County and nearby areas for this week. In Dent County, Route 19 will undergo pothole patching from Route JJ to Route TT. Roadside work is scheduled on Route K, and pavement repairs are planned for Route CC from Route C to Route H. For all these projects, one lane will remain open with flaggers directing traffic through the work zones. In Crawford County, pothole patching will continue on Route 19 from Mill Springs Road to Seven Cedars Road. Route 8 will see pothole patching from Meramec Farms Road to Route 68 in Phelps County. Both of these projects are scheduled for August 19-22. Phelps County will have ongoing work on I-44, with road resurfacing and reconstruction continuing from Exit 186 in Rolla to Exit 195 in St. James. Motorists should expect around-the-clock lane closures from U.S. Route 63 to Missouri Route 68, with an 11-foot width restriction in place. This project is set for completion in late fall 2024. MoDOT reminds drivers to be cautious in work zones. All work is weather permitting, and schedules may change.

SMH Family Medicine has announced the clinic will end its Saturday clinic services effective August 31. According to a press release from the hospital, the decision aims to reallocate resources and ensure that the highest quality of care is delivered during regular weekday hours. In addition, Terry Bruno, a long-serving and valued provider at SMH will be departing the clinic on September 13. The SMH Family Medicine Clinic acknowledged that these changes might cause some inconvenience but emphasized its ongoing commitment to providing exceptional healthcare.