Local News

Due to a printing error, page two of yesterday’s Your World Today had a story and obituary from a previously published issue. We apologize for the confusion and will republish the intended stories in an upcoming edition. 

The Dent County Commission had its meeting Thursday morning at the courthouse. In road reports, District One Commissioner Keith Green shared that crew members will be grading county roads 5380, 5110, and 6080 and rock will be hauled where needed to those same roads. Crew members will also be putting in a culvert on County Road 4110 and preparing that road for resurfacing. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams shared crew members will be removing a tree on County Road 3300 and spreading rock and grading on County Road 2360. Crew members will also be attempting to fix the low water crossing on County Road 4290. In public comments, resident Cindy Jones shared that the Honoring Our Heroes Marathon Gala, where funds raised during the annual event is to be distributed to several local veteran’s organizations, was held Thursday. Also during public comments, general contractor Levi Reeves of Levi Reeves Construction requested the commissioners solicit bids for repaving the Dent County Sheriff’s Office parking lot. Commissioners informed Reeves he would need to speak with the sheriff’s office, and that the item would need to be budgeted for within the fiscal year and may not be possible until next fiscal year’s budget approval. 

The Missouri University Extension will be hosting a class on water bath canning at the Salem Community Center @ the Armory the evening of  June 18th from 6:00 to 8:30. The hands-on class will cover the water bath canning of salsa, which does not require a pressure canner. The process can be used for canning other high acid foods like fruits, jams, jellies, fruit butters, pickles, salsas, relishes, and acidified tomatoes. Pre-registration will begin on June 10th, and the cost of $25 will cover the supplies of the class. For more information, contact the Dent County Extension Office located at 407 East 4th Street or phone number 573-729-3196, and/or contact Thom Haines at phone number 573-247-7952. 

Salem’s Community-Wide Yard Sale is set to begin next Saturday, May 2nd. If you need space to hold your yard sale, spaces are available for rent in the parking lot behind the City Administrative Offices at 400 North Iron Street. Spaces are $8 for two parking spaces. You reserve spaces by coming into the office at 400 North Iron Street or by calling 573-729-4117. After the Community-Wide Yard Sale is Spring Residential Cleanup to follow for the two weeks immediately after the sale on your regular trash pickup day. 

Apply now through May 1st, 2026 to receive the Missouri Century Farm recognition. Families who have owned a farm for 100 consecutive years or more are eligible to become a Missouri Century Farm through the MU Extension Program. If your farm has been in the family for 100+ years as of  Dec. 31, 2026, apply for the Century Farm designation and receive a certificate, sign and booklet to commemorate your heritage. The program honors the long‑standing contributions of Missouri farmers and ranchers and the legacy they continue to build. So far, more than 8,000 farms have received this recognition. For more information, visit extension.missouri.edu, click “Programs”, and search “Century Farms.” Or contact the local MU Extension office by calling 573-729-3196 or visiting the office at 112 East 5th Street Suite 4, Salem. 

The Ozarks Riverways Foundation will be holding its annual Rendezvous on the Ridge from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the afternoon on May 9th at Big Rock Candy Mountain in Jadwin. As well as food, vendors, arts, music, workshops, and fun, this year’s celebration will also host 14 local authors including Sarah K. Mason, Titus James Benton, Dr. Mark Morgan, and Matt Ankney. This year, the concert to be held at 6:00 in the evening is free to attend, with Dennis Stroughmatt and band L’Esprit Creole taking the stage. Be sure to bring a lawn chair and dress weather appropriate. For more information, visit ozarkriverwaysfoundation.org/events.

As part of National Work Zone Awareness Week April 20-24, the Missouri Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to “work with us” by making safe and responsible choices behind the wheel. In 2025, 24 people were killed in Missouri work zone crashes. Distracted driving contributed to at least 11 of those fatalities as well as more than 400 work zone crashes overall. Distracted driving and driving too fast for the conditions remain the top contributors to work zone crashes. State Highway Safety and Traffic Engineer Jon Nelson said that on any given day on Missouri’s roadways this construction season, it’s expected to have as many as 1,000 active work zones in place. It’s more than a courtesy to slow down and move over in work zones — it’s the law. Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes, when safe, as they approach state vehicles, law enforcement, or any emergency vehicle with flashing lights. If a lane change isn’t possible, drivers must slow down when passing. Nelson added that MoDot’s protective vehicles in work zones were struck 50 times, 16 times more than the year prior. These protective vehicles are often times the only thing shielding highway workers from an errant vehicle, and the fact they were hit 50 times is a sobering reminder of just how critical it is that drivers pay attention and respect the work being done. The best way drivers can “work with us” is by slowing down, putting down the phone, and navigating work zones with patience. Drivers can visit MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map at www.traveler.modot.org and find out what work zones they’ll encounter along their trips this construction season.

Apply now through May 1st, 2026 to receive the Missouri Century Farm recognition. Families who have owned a farm for 100 consecutive years or more are eligible to become a Missouri Century Farm through this MU Extension Program. If your farm has been in the family for 100+ years as of Dec. 31, 2026, apply for the Century Farm designation and receive a certificate, sign and booklet to commemorate your heritage. The program honors the long‑standing contributions of Missouri farmers and ranchers and the legacy they continue to build. So far, more than 8,000 farms have received this recognition. For more information, visit extension.missouri.edu, click “Programs”, and search “Century Farms.” Or contact the local MU Extension office by calling 573-729-3196 or visiting the office at 112 East 5th Street Suite 4, Salem. 

Congratulations to Lea Deller, a Salem High School student who was honored at the 2026 Youth Art Month celebration at the Missouri State Capitol for her work. Deller received the prestigious President’s Choice Award, along with art supplies and a $100 Blick gift certificate. Cody Nickles, art teacher of Salem High School, was also recognized with a $200 Blick gift certificate. Representing Salem High School alongside Deller were Haley Yerk, Madison Reese, and Jhonine Maralit, each showcasing high-quality work that reflected the talent and creativity of the students in our community. Organized by the Missouri Art Education Association, Youth Art Month (YAM) is a nationwide observance held each March to emphasize the importance of visual arts education for all students. The 2026 theme, “The World Needs Art,” was highlighted through a statewide exhibit featuring exceptional K–12 artwork from across Missouri, displayed in the Capitol from mid-March through April. Each MAEA member art teacher may submit up to four student artworks, ensuring broad representation from schools statewide. The celebration concluded with an awards ceremony on April 9th in the Capitol Rotunda, where top honors—including the Governor’s Mansion Award, the Governor’s Award, the MAEA Chairman Award, and the MAEA President’s Award—recognized both student achievement and the dedication of art educators.

The Show Me Green Sales Tax Holiday returns this week through April 25th. All Missouri cities, counties, and districts participate in the appliance sales tax holiday, according to Missouri Director of Revenue Trish Vincent. According to Missouri statute, state sales tax will be waived on qualifying Energy Star certified appliances – a certification which indicates that a product has been independently verified to meet strict standards. Clothes washers, dryers, dishwashers, air conditioners, and refrigerators with the Energy Star certification are just some of the items that are exempt from state sales tax on the first $1,500 of each appliance purchased. For more information, visit the Department of Revenue website at dor.mo.gov and search “Show-Me Green Sales Tax Holiday.”

Salem Memorial District Hospital’s Chief Executive Officer Brooke Bollman will be stepping down from her role effective May 31st, 2026, the hospital announced yesterday. Named as Interim CEO by the Board of Directors was Chief Nursing Officer and Nurse Practitioner Amber Hogan, effective June 1st, 2026. Bollman has served as the CEO since her appointment in July 2024 and throughout her tenure provided leadership to strengthen operations and improve the hospital’s overall financial position. In statements shared within the press release, Bollman and Chair of the Board of Directors Dr. Leigh Ann Price emphasized that the hospital remains well-positioned for continued success, with multiple strategic initiatives and growth opportunities in progress, along with a strong leadership team. The hospital will continue to serve patients and the community without interruption. Updates regarding leadership transition will be shared as they become available, concluded the press release.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was absent. First District Commissioner Keith Green was designated Acting Presiding Commissioner. Derrick Marfitt, Dent County Emergency Management Director, attended to discuss the estimates on the projects from Great River Engineering’s preliminary plans for three different crossings. It is still unknown at this time how much will be covered by FEMA/SEMA, due to funding approval for the organizations still pending from Congress. A discussion on payroll for the position of Dent County Emergency Management Director was held. In road reports, Green reported that crew members will be hauling rock to county roads 5130 and 2460. Grading will be done on those same roads, along with County Road 5500. Crew members will also be working on maintenance for the durapatcher. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported crew members would be hauling rock to county roads 4300, 2540, 2240, and 4290. Grading will be done on 4300, 2270, and 2240. Crew members will also be cutting brush on County Road 2540 and will be installing a crossover pipe on County Road 2240. Andrew Wynn, Vice President and Lending Officer of Salem’s Town & Country Bank, attended the meeting regarding the lease purchase agreement for two 2026 Mach Trucks for the road department, which the commissioners signed. Meanwhile, Dent County Clerk Angie Curley shared that bills and payroll have been approved. The next meeting of the Dent County Commission will be Thursday at 9:00 at the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

Dent County Health Center (DCHC) provided an update regarding the investigation of a confirmed case of Legionnaires’ disease, suspected of being associated with Seville Care Center. Environmental health testing conducted at Seville Care Center found no Legionella bacteria throughout the facility. At this time, the investigation has been completed. DCHC worked closely with Seville Care Center and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services throughout the investigation process. Legionnaires’ disease is a serious type of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria, which is typically spread through inhalation of contaminated mist or water vapor. It is not normally spread person to person. 

The Ozark Heritage Artisans’ Springfest will be held Saturday from 9:00 in the morning until 3:00 in the afternoon. The free event will be held at the Salem Creative Arts Center at 202 South Main. You will find arts, crafts, baked goods, demonstrations and fun!

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met for both its reorganization meeting and monthly board meeting on Thursday, April 16th. Newly elected board members Dru Howard, Andrew Wynn, Luke Heithold, and Brady Adams were sworn in by Assistant Superintendent and Recording Secretary Dan Copeland. The board also elected its officers, with Dru Howard retaining the position of president, Sammi Parker retaining vice-president, Andrew Wynn retaining secretary, and Jason Green retaining treasurer. Luke Heithold was chosen as the MSBA delegate, and Brady Adams was chosen as the alternate delegate. Moving on to its regular meeting, the board approved its agenda and consent agenda, after which Superintendent Nate Wills shared communication from Lisa Mast and Daniel Jennings. The board then recognized the cast of the Lion King Jr., including Rowan McGrail, Sadie Wynn, Rose McCoy, and Adrian Miller, introduced by Shannon Phelps. In the superintendent report, Wills documented CSIP goals and updated board members that the last day of school will be May 15th; Senior’s Last Day will be May 8th; and a special board meeting, for appeals, will be held May 7th at 5:00 in the afternoon. Wills also updated board members regarding MSHSAA changes, the status of school and state finances, the annual school bus inspection results, the district health insurance premium increase, the Upper Elementary roof project, the state proposed A-F Report Card, and the district track access to the public. Wills thanked the Junior class and Stuco for donating $8,000 toward a new gym floor covering. The board was also updated on the partnership with the Salem Police Department for FEMA building access during tornado warnings after hours, along with the status of the FEMA building and rekeying/key fob installation. The board then received updates and reports from district administrators. Under new business, the board approved the Shroepfer Insurance health insurance renewal with a vote of 5-0-2. A vision specialist contract was also approved, with a vote of 5-0-2. A contract with CTS for virtual SLP, SLP-A, and PT services was approved with a vote of 5-0-2. A lawn mower purchase of $11,315 from Dent County Farm Supply was also approved, with a vote of 4-0-3. A first reading of MSBA policy updates was heard by the board. Personnel changes were noted, including the hire of Sydney Dothage (ECSE P/T Aide), and the resignation of Sarah Montoya as a Upper Elementary aide. The board then moved into a closed executive session to address student and personnel matters. The next meeting of the Salem R-80 School Board of Education is scheduled for May 21st in the Administration Building and will be open to the public.

Montauk was formally established as a state park in 1926, 100 years ago. To celebrate, the park will be hosting special events throughout the 2026 on-season, to begin with Old Mill Days on May 8th and May 9th from 9:00 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon, both days. This annual event features guided and self-guided history tours, as well as games and other activities. Demonstrations of historical skills such as blacksmithing, archery, Dutch oven cooking, weaving, rope making, wood carving, beekeeping and more will be available. See an arts and craft fair showcasing all the products local artisans have to offer. All activities will take place around the old Montauk Mill. Admission is free and open to the public, and there is no need to register. Stop by to learn a new skill, immerse yourself in local history, and support small businesses. For more information, call the park office at 573-548-2201 or visit the Montauk State Park Facebook page at facebook.com/montaukstateparkofficial.

U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey sentenced a Crawford County man to 170 months in prison for grooming and engaging in illegal sexual contact with a minor last Wednesday. Nathaniel Rod Gibson, age 34, gave the victim a phone and sent her more than 18,996 text messages from March 10th, 2023, to Sept. 6th, 2023, while grooming her with romantic and flirtatious statements. Gibson also told the victim to delete the messages, so that her mother would not find them. In June of 2023, Gibson drove the then 13-year-old victim from Missouri to a campground in Arkansas, where he engaged in an illegal sex act with her. He also did so at his home in Crawford County. Gibson pleaded guilty in January in the U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of travel with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and one count of coercion and enticement of a minor. The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, the Diamond City (Arkansas) Police Department, and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case. 

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen has called for a special meeting tonight at 6:00 which will go immediately into closed session following the call to order, roll call, and agenda approval. The closed session will be held pertaining to legal actions, causes of action or litigation involving a public governmental body and any confidential or privileged communication between a public governmental body or its representatives and its attorneys. After the closed session, the meeting will adjourn. 

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors held its monthly meeting Tuesday, April 14th at the firehouse. After the call to order and approval of consent agenda and previous meeting minutes, the board also approved the financial reports, bills, payments, and statements, along with the budget and reconciliations. The board was reminded that its By-Laws will be reviewed for its meeting in May. In old business, the board reviewed the Fidelity Tower. During a formal inquiry into technical malfunctions, Assistant Chief Derrick Marfitt investigated persistent issues regarding the department communications repeater, revealing there had been a change in ownership to Symphony Towers. The communication led to formal documentation of the malfunction and the launch of a corrective investigation. The investigation continues working to resolve the equipment failures. In new business, two bids were received for lawn care for the district: Larry Lundy bid $100 and Blue Line Outdoor bid $80. The board approved Blue Line Outdoor. Fire Chief Derek Thomas presented the monthly reimbursement report, which showed the fire district responded to 23 calls in March and a total of 84 calls for the year. Thomas presented a quote from Sentinel for Propak Angled Coupling for a total cost of $1,186.08. This was the only bid received. After discussion, the bid from Sentinel was accepted. Quotes from fencing companies were reviewed, for both commercial and residential fencing, to be placed around the Roof Vent Training area: Mid Missouri Fence  Company for $29,000; Holiday Welding and Fence for $23,427; and Missouri Fence and Lot Clearing for $21,254.63. After discussion, the board accepted the bid from Missouri Fence Company and Lot Clearing for $21,254.63. Sleep In Heavenly Peace requested the use of the firehouse parking lot for a community bed build, which the board approved. The next board meeting was then set for May 12th at 6:00 in the evening at the Dent County Fire Protection District firehouse. The meeting then adjourned.

An in-person public meeting is planned to provide information and answer questions from the community about planned corridor improvements on I-44 in Laclede, Phelps and Pulaski counties. In Phelps County, planned improvements include rebuilding pavement and interchange improvements at Route V (Exit 189) in Rolla and at Missouri Route 68 (Exit 195) in St. James. These pavement and interchange improvements will enhance safety, improve pavement conditions, and support future traffic needs. The Rolla Forward 44 Public Meeting will be held in the evening of April 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 at Rolla City Hall, 901 N. Elm Street. There will be no formal presentation, so members of the public can come and go as they please during the meeting time. By participating and commenting, the public can help MoDOT determine what best serves the needs of the motorists who use the interstate on an average day, while being responsible stewards of available funding.

The Dent County Commission met for its regular meeting Thursday morning at the courthouse. In road reports, District One Commissioner Keith Green stated crew members are maintaining and preparing the dura patcher. Diesel fuel bids for the Road Department came in with MFA at $3.72; Phil-Mart at $3.99; and County Fuels at $4.09. The bid went to MFA. District Two Commissioner Jimmy Williams reported that crew members are planning on putting rock under the low-water crossing on County Road 6150. Crew members are also planning on picking up tires which the Dent County Sheriff’s Office informed them of. Several culverts are planned for replacement, as well. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported the commissioners and County Clerk Angie Curley attended MAC Legislative Days in Jefferson City, where there was a low turnout for representatives. Curley reported bills are to be approved, and that she attended the MAC board meeting Tuesday where she heard from Trent Watson, the MAC board lobbyist, on ongoing legislative issues. They also heard from Attorney Travis Elliot on issues pertaining to Senate Bill 3 and Senate Bill 190. Collector Shannon VanKirk reminded those that are 62 and over and own their own home to pick up an application for SB190 from the collector’s office. Applications are available until June 30th. Office hours for the collector are Monday through Friday from 8:00 in the morning to 4:30 in the afternoon. Contact her office at 573-729-3911 if you have any questions. Meanwhile, commissioners were visited by Great River Engineering’s Jeff Banderet for updates on ongoing projects. Banderet shared that currently there has only been one bid received for the TAP Sidewalk Project surrounding the courthouse and advised the commissioners to reach out to contractors and encourage them to bid. If more bidders have not been received by the time bids are closed, an extension may be requested. Regarding the FLAP Project for County Road 6670 in Montauk, the Ozark Preservation Office has determined that realigning the curve is not possible. That project will need to be revised with a different alignment. Once the alignment is cleared, the commissioners will need to  proceed with right of way acquisitions from the three land owners. The project is still within the originally budgeted $800,000, confirmed Banderet, though prices may fluctuate somewhat in the coming months. It is expected that the project will be bid out in late winter, with estimations for it to be an early spring construction project next year. Banderet also presented preliminary plans for three different crossings, with exact reimbursement percentages from FEMA/SEMA unknown at this time. The three projects are a low-water crossing repair on County Road 5150 over Dry Valley Creek for approximately $26,000; a bridge repair over Spring Creek on County Road 3210 for approximately $67,000; and a proposed bridge on County Road 4210 over Dry Valley Creek for approximately $1.1 million. Derrick Marfitt, Dent County Emergency Management Director, will be updated on the project details to be forwarded to FEMA and SEMA during Monday’s Dent County Commission meeting. Dent County Health Center’s Administrator and Salem Memorial Hospital board member Zach Moser came in on behalf of the hospital and Healthy Dent County, which are forming a committee which plans on applying for a grant to cover a new ambulance and radios. They would like a commissioner to be on the committee to help represent the county. Further, the commission is seeking bids for grader blades and culverts, with grader blade bids due at 10:00 in the morning on June 1st and culvert bids due at 10:30 in the morning on June 1st. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 in the courthouse, and the meeting is open to the public.

Join the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District April 18th from 9:00 in the morning to noon at the Tiger Typhoon Aquatic Center in St. Robert for a special collection event, accepting electronics, appliances, and tires. There are fees for tires, certain electronics, and Freon appliances. For a full list of fees and unacceptable items, visit the website located at ozarkrivers.org, mouse over “Programs & Services”, and click “Special Collections.” This event is open to any household within the Ozark Rivers District, including Salem. Residential items only — items generated by businesses will not be accepted. Place all recycling in your trunk or trailer and staff will unload all items.

The City of Salem will have two fire hydrant service and repair crews out, beginning near the City Administrative Building and moving east. Residents may notice brief water turbidity.

City of Salem Administrator Sally Burbridge reports the Electric Department will complete important maintenance work this Friday, with a planned power outage scheduled to take place from 7:30 to 9:30 in the morning. The outage is needed so crews can safely replace an electrical pole at the corner of Main Street and 8th Street. This pole cannot remain energized during the work. The outage is expected to last about two hours and will affect North Main Street, East 10th Street, East 11th Street and nearby connecting streets. Customers in these areas should plan ahead for the temporary loss of power. To prepare for this outage, those affected can turn off or unplug sensitive electronics such as computers and TVs, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed, and be prepared for brief service interruption. The city appreciates your assistance and patience as the electric department completes this work to keep the city electric system safe and reliable.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be holding a reorganization meeting prior to the start of its regular board meeting tonight at 5:30 in the afternoon, located in the board room at the Administrative Office on J Highway. After the call to order and certification of election results, there will be a swearing in of newly elected members by the secretary of the board. Superintendent Nate Wills will act as temporary chairman for the election of the new board president and vice-president. The new board president will then preside over the election of the secretary and treasurer. The board will elect the MSBA delegate and alternate, followed by adjournment of the reorganization meeting. The regular board meeting will then be called to order followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and the approval of the agenda and consent agenda. The board will hear communications from Lisa Mast and Daniel Jennings. The Salem Upper Elementary will be recognized, followed by the superintendent’s report. CSIP goals will be addressed in all reports. Administration reports will be heard from William Lynch, Upper Elementary, Middle School, and High School administration. Athletics and Activities, Special Education, Technology, Maintenance, and Transportation reports will be received by the board in writing. Under new business, the board will be: approving insurance renewal, a vision specialist contract, a CTS contract for virtual SLP, SLP-A, and PT services, and a lawn mower purchase of $11,315 from Dent County Farm Supply. A hire of Sydney Dothage (ECSE P/T aide) is considered for consideration, along with the resignation of Sarah Montoya, Upper Elementary aide. The board will enter closed session to discuss personnel and student issues, followed by adjournment after returning to open session. The reorganization meeting and the regular meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education will be open to the public.

MoDOT has released a list of general highway maintenance and construction work planned in the mid–Missouri area from now through April 19th. Weather conditions may postpone scheduled work. Many projects will include lane closures, which could cause delays. Within all counties, in addition to the work listed, other moving operations such as pothole patching, brush cutting, striping, and pavement repairs continue in various locations. Motorists should travel with care and be alert for slow-moving equipment. In Dent County, pedestrian facility upgrades continue in the city limits of Salem on Route 19. Minimal traffic impacts are expected during the project, which is expected to be completed by September 2026. On Route B, the bridge over Dry Creek remains closed. Motorists may use Missouri Routes 19, 32 and 72 as detour routes around the closure. A project to replace the bridge is scheduled to be completed this year. In Phelps County, pedestrian facility upgrades continue in Rolla on Highway 72, with project completion expected in April 2026. The bridge rehabilitation project over I-44 continues with one eastbound lane to remain open on Business Loop 44/Route 72/Kingshighway. The bridge is closed to all westbound traffic, and a signed detour is in place. The project is expected to be completed in July 2026.

On Friday evening at the Creative Arts Center, you can create a “Think Spring” Front Porch Welcome Sign from 6:00 to 8:30 with Danielle Norris. Create a one of a kind front porch sign with your favorite idea and display it at home or work, or give it as a gift. The cost is $20 if you are painting the back of a sign you already have, or $30 for a new one. Stencils will be provided as well as all supplies. At least six people need to sign up to hold the class. To register, go online to the SACBA website, click on the “Programs” category and then go the Salem Creative Arts Council link. For questions, please e-mail salemartscenter@salemcommunitybetterment.com.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met for its regular meeting Tuesday evening. After the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, the board approved the resolution certifying the Municipal Election results, followed by an oath of office for newly elected officials Mayor Greg Parker, two-year term; East Ward Alderman Nathan Kinsey, two-year term; and West Ward Alderwoman Catherine Dent, two-year term. The board then elected Alderman Rick Letchworth as president. Mayor Parker’s reappointments to various municipal bodies, including the Planning and Zoning Board, Board of Adjustments, Utility Committee, Parks and Recreation, Enhanced Enterprise Zone, and Airport Board, were approved. Krista Deluca provided the audit presentation for the fiscal year ending June 30th, 2025. Due to spending more than $750,000 in federal funding, the city had received an additional audit, what is known as a single-audit. Within the independent auditor’s report on compliance with federal programs, there were no findings, of which Deluca commended the city. The city had received an unmodified opinion, which means the financial statements were fairly stated. The audit showed the city’s total assets are $40,729,000 and total liabilities are $10,852,000. The total net position for the city is $30,662,000. The electric fund showed an increase in net position of $1.6 million, while the water fund showed an increase of $915,000. Moving on, the board approved the request for street closure along 4th Street for the Art in the Parking Lot event Sept. 26th from 8:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the evening from Tana Kettner of the Salem Area Arts Council. The board also approved Brandon Snyder for the Salem Housing Authority. Parker read a proclamation recognizing the impact and contributions of the Salem Public Library, declaring Library Week from April 19th through April 25th. The board approved amending its previous motion from Midstate Pipeline for the Wastewater Treatment Plant and its FEMA mitigation project, along with a resolution approving a contract for the control panel improvements. The board approved an ordinance authorizing the mayor to accept and execute an access easement from HMH Properties, LLC. for permanent access and utility purposes, and the lease of the former water pre-treatment building between HMH Properties, LLC. and the city. The board then approved for staff to pursue the sale of surplus equipment on Purple Wave. Under bids, the board approved a bid from Rommel Lock and Alarm for $14,250 for a 360-degree camera system to be installed at the city park and monitored by the Salem Police Department Dispatch. The board approved a bid from Roberts-Judson at a cost of $5,421.27 to replace the front door, office windows, and kennel windows of the Salem Animal Shelter. Police Chief Joe Chase reported the Department of Agriculture has inspected the shelter and given it a perfect score. The board approved a bid from Resolve IT to continue its services to the city for another year, the cost of which has been budgeted at $7,500. Two change orders for the Wastewater Treatment Plant were also approved, one to extend the contract for the Phase 2A project to accommodate for the delay in delivery of pump equipment, and another to elevate a control panel at a cost of $9,428 for FEMA mitigation. Finance Director Stacey Houston reported the total sales tax revenues collected for Fiscal Year 2026 are $3,708,625, up from last year 2.7%. The ending total of all funds is approximately $17 million. Public Works Director Steve Paine reported 60 fire hydrants are being maintained and repainted across the east side of the city. A culvert near Phil-Mart’s drive through has caved in. The cost to replace the culvert will be quite high. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Aldermen will be April 28th and will be open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be having its regular meeting tonight at 6:00 within the City Hall Auditorium located at 202 North Washington Street. After the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call and approval of the agenda and consent agenda, the board will hear any scheduled public comments. A resolution declaring the results of the Municipal Election held April 7th will be approved, followed by an oath of office for newly elected officials, reorganization of the board, and committee appointments. An audit presentation will then be given. Several items will be considered, including a request for street closure from Tana Kettner, and the Salem Housing Authority board appointment of Brandon Snyder. A Library Week proclamation will be read. The board will be considering the amendment of its previous motion to approve a bid from Midstate Pipeline for the WWTP. The board will hear a second reading of an ordinance authorizing the mayor to accept and execute an access easement from HMH Properties, LLC. for permanent access and utility purposes, along with a resolution authorizing an access easement and lease of the former water pre-treatment building between HMH Properties, LLC. and the city. In addition, the board will be approving a contract for control panel improvements. Under bids, the board will consider the approval of the sale of surplus equipment on Purple Wave; a camera system for the city park; animal shelter improvements; and Resolve IT services. A first and second reading of an ordinance approving Change Order No. 3 for the Salem Wastewater Treatment Facility Phase 2A Improvements Project will also be considered. Finally, there will be reports from city officials, followed by adjournment into a closed session. The open session meeting of the City of Salem Board of Alderman is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning at the courthouse. Resident John Baker of County Road 3193 requested ditches be pulled on the road. District 2 Commissioner Jimmy Williams was informed by crew members ditches on the road were too wet to pull but as soon as they are dry enough, they will be pulled. In road reports, District 1 Commissioner Keith Green said crew members were removing a downed tree on County Road 4080. He also stated grading was going to be done on county roads 5130, 5150, 5390, 6380 and 6485. He indicated rock would be added where needed. Green went on to say that a crew member will also be working on the small dump truck. District 2 Commissioner Williams reported workers will be grading county roads 4040, 4330, 4400, 4403 and 5280. He also stated that rock will be added and grading done on county road 2550, which serves a Missouri Department of Conservation area. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he attended the MRPC meetings last week and reported to the commissioners MRPC fees are increasing 14%. The old price for membership was $6,018, and the commission would now have to pay $6,883.80 for 2026 services. The commission all agreed to accept the price increase. Larson said there was a discussion on project based vouchers for homes in the HUD program, and that the Phelps County Public Housing Agency (PHA) has reopened its wait list and began accepting applications for housing assistance. Larson also stated there was a discussion on the Route 66 Festival that will be going on this spring and summer. The commissioners and Dent County Clerk Angie Curley will be attending the MAC Legislative Days in Jefferson City today and Wednesday. Curley will also be attending a MAC Board meeting there, as well. Dent County Assessor Alisa Brookshire came in to present an agreement between the Dent County Assessor’s office and Brewer Unlimited Consulting, LLC. They will provide training and assistance in conducting lot splits at a rate of $25.00 per hour. The agreement says the county will be billed monthly and consultants will not exceed eight hours worked every two weeks. Sargent Len Pabin came in to let the commission know the Dent County Sheriff’s Department is needing diesel for their incinerator. 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 Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will be meeting Tuesday evening at 6:00 at the Fire Station at #2 South Main. After the call to order and roll call will be the approval of the consent agenda, which includes review of previous meeting minutes, the financial report and approval of bills, plus the budget review. In old business, the board will address the Fidelity (CTI) Tower Lease. In new business, the board will discuss lawn care. Chief Thomas will give his report, which will include the monthly reimbursement report, followed by the setting of the date for the next meeting and closed session, if necessary, before adjournment. The regular meeting of the DCFPD Board of Directors is open to the public.

The Salem Public Library Board of Trustees held their meeting at 5:00 in the library’s conference room April 9th. After approving the previous meeting’s minutes, Library Director, Kate McBride presented the librarians report. During her report, she noted that items received and provided to Missouri Evergreen were down from the same time last year, but the circulation of books, ebooks, audio books, and periodicals were up. Paperback trade numbers were also up. After approving the financial report, the board discussed book reviews and correspondences. In Old Business, the board discussed plans for the South Basement repairs, and in New Business the board voted on and approved the placement of a Naloxone Box to be provided by the Dent County Health Center, more details about that installation will be provided at a later time. The meeting then adjourned. The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Salem Public Library Board of Trustees is scheduled for May 14th at 5:00 in the library’s conference room, and is open to the public. 

The Salem R-80 High School participated in its annual Service Project Day on April 8th. Students started working with the sunrise, and their projects ranged from cleaning rocks from local park ball fields, repainting William Lynch Elementary’s playground games, organizing food and cleaning the local food pantry at the Shepherds Nook, stream clean up at Bonebrake, cleaning flower beds, spreading mulch and trimming trees at Salem Upper Elementary, walking the 34 acres of Cedar Grove Cemetery picking up trash, fallen flowers and limbs, organizing at the Salem Public Library, installing metal on the gables of Salem R-80’s administrative building and building insulated walls for the Salem’s Creative Arts Center. Heather Johnson organized these events with herself, Mr. Sanders, Mr. Tinker, Ms. Blair, Mrs. Terrill, and Mrs. Kettner supervising all activities.

A group of Salem High School students traveled to West Plains to participate in the Interscholastic Contest at Missouri State University West Plains. For the second year in a row, the students earned first place overall for Division I, which consists of six schools. Overall, there were twenty-four schools total. Not only are the students bringing home the trophy, but several students are bringing home some medals of their own. Division I medalists include: Ivan Brooks, August Scheel, Anna Belle Seye, Quin Dahms, Tabitha Deller, Addison Fulton, Maggie Hogan, Isabella Black, Harlie Click, Zoey Elliott, Abbi Terrill, Marshall White, and Haiden Shaw. Overall scoring medalists (for all divisions) include: Ave Wofford, Isabella Black, Tabitha Deller, Zoey Elliot, Carter Foster, and Marshall White. Congratulations to these students!