Local News

The Dent County Commission met for their regular meeting Thursday morning in the courthouse. Road and Bridge Department grader operators Danny Wethy, Steve Lundy, Travis Turner and Norman Bell were in attendance. Also in attendance was Second District Commissioner Candidate Denver Ellis. During public comments Second District Commissioner Gary Polk confronted Ellis about comments he alleged Ellis had made during his interview with Stan Stevens on KSMO Radio. Ellis denied Polk’s accusations and shared his viewpoint of the comments he’d made. Polk reviewed the hours and years of grader operation experience for each man, plus commented about the training they had received. Turner explained how they pull ditches, crown the roads and grade them. He also explained the modern technology in the graders, the grading processes, and how each road actually grades different each time the graders go over them. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson pointed out that the operators have gone to proper training. First District Commissioner Wes Mobray noted that budget limitations only allow so much that they road crews can do to the roadways. The four men were thanked for their attendance as they left the Commissioners’ Office. In the road report Mobray said that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 5525, 6070, and 6255, while brush would be cut on county road 6180. Polk reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2050, 2060, 4270, and 4280, plus rock would be hauled to county road 2070. He also noted that 3/8-inch chips were being stockpiled for Chip and Seal patching, plus grader blades were being replaced on Grader #37. Larson reported that the Tourism Tax Committee meeting was moved to Tuesday night where two proposals were presented, and two reimbursement requests were approved. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that bills were being approved for payment and that absentee voting continues. She encouraged voters to update their voter registration information ASAP and any questions should be directed to her office at (573) 729-4144. Curley also noted that electioneering is not allowed within 25 feet of the polls and voters will need a photo id. Mobray also reported that he and Collector Shannon Vankirk went to a Bunker City Alderman meeting to discuss SB190. The Commissioners voted 3-0 to set the 2024 Tax Rate Hearing for General Revenue, Road and Bridge, SB40, and the Senior Citizens Service Fund for August 22nd at 10:00. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Monday morning at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The St. James community is mourning the loss of a 31-year-old woman who was fatally struck by a vehicle while crossing an intersection with a juvenile at N. Jefferson and Highway B around 9 Wednesday night. The juvenile who sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Despite a swift emergency response from, the St. James Police Department, St. James Fire Department, St. James Ambulance District, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, and Mercy Life Line Air Medical Services the woman was pronounced dead at the scene. An investigation into the accident is currently underway by the St. James Police Department and the Phelps County Coroner’s Office. The families affected are requesting privacy during this difficult time.

The Dent County 4-H and FFA Expo is going on now at the Commons. Today the Hog Show will begin at 7:00 this morning, followed by the Sheep and Goat Show. Later in the afternoon the Small Animal Show will start at 1:00. The Beef and Dairy Show will start at 2:00 then to cap off the day, a Buyer Supper will begin at 6:30 in the evening. Then tomorrow the 4-H FFA Market Sale will begin at 9:00 in the morning. KSMO Media will be on hand to live stream the event on their three streaming platforms, YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. KSMO Radio 1340 AM and 95.7 FM will broadcast the live audio.

The Creative Arts Center will have a Christmas in July Ceramics Paint Party on Friday July 26th from 6:00 in the evening till 8:00. Spend a relaxing few hours painting nostalgic Christmas keepsakes. They’ll have various sizes of ceramic Christmas trees available to glaze and fire, as well as other ceramic figurines, plates, bowls, cups, etc. What better way to bring the Christmas spirit into the heat of summer, than to paint some memorable pieces to pass down from generation to generation! The cost is $5 and will go towards the cost of your ceramic pieces. To register, go the SACBA website and find the Programs tab. Find the Creative Arts Center and click to register for the class.

The Dent County 4-H and FFA Expo is underway. Exhibit Entries were judged yesterday followed by the dessert auction in the evening. Today, livestock registration will be from 9:30 until 11:30 and all livestock must be in place by 11:00am. Livestock weigh-ins are scheduled to start at noon. The “Pig Pals” show is at 5:00 followed by the exhibitor and family supper at 6:30. Friday’s shows will kick off at 7:00 with the hog show, followed by the Sheep and Goat Show. The Small Animal show is scheduled to start at 1:00 and it will be followed by the Beef and Dairy Show. Buyer supper is at 6:30. Saturday will be the culmination of the Expo with the 4-H and FFA Market Sale at 9:00. For additional information contact the Dent County Extension office at (573) 729-3196.

To celebrate 35 years of river conservation, Stream Teams United and the Missouri Stream Team Program are hosting the 2024 Watershed Celebration at Meramec State Park on Saturday, July 27th. Missouri Stream Teams from around the state are invited to attend the festival, which also celebrates the 25th anniversary of Stream Teams United, a non-profit partner of the program. The Missouri Stream Team Program is a volunteer-led effort to conserve Missouri streams. Sponsored by the Missouri Department of Conservation, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and the Conservation Federation of Missouri, the program focuses on education, stewardship, and advocacy for Missouri stream resources. In 1988, a small group of anglers became fed up with unsightly trash disrupting their fishing in Roubidoux Creek in Pulaski County. These conservation-minded Missourians decided to clean this section of stream, thus forming the first Missouri Stream Team in 1989. The Roubidoux Fly Fishers Association, Stream Team #1, is still going strong 35 years later. The program has since grown to more than 6,000 Stream Teams around the state with more than 135,000 volunteers. MDC Evgagement Specialist Cara Coates Coates says the ongoing work of more than 6,000 Stream Teams and their volunteers have made significant positive impacts on the health of Missouri’s streams over the last 35 years. That work includes volunteers giving more than 3.5 million hours of time, removing more than 14,127 tons of trash from Missouri waterways, planting 405,794 trees along streams, conducting 35,049 water quality monitoring trips, and stenciling 21,741 storm drains. As part of the Missouri Stream Team Program celebrations they invite all Teams to attend the 28th Annual Watershed Celebration at Meramec State Park on Saturday, July 27. The festival will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and includes lunch provided by the Missouri Stream Team Program, kids games and crafts, tubing on the Meramec River with complimentary shuttle and other activities including free camping offered to Stream Teams Friday and Saturday evenings on a first-come, first-serve at Group Site A at Meramec State Park. Registration is required to estimate attendance. To learn more about Missouri Stream Teams and how you can participate, visit mostreamteam.org.

Onondaga Cave State Park will celebrate the reopening of its famous cave on Friday, July 19, at 10 a.m. with a special lighting ceremony. The cave has been closed while a new LED lighting system was installed, marking the completion of the first of several revenue bond projects for Missouri State Parks. Discovered in 1886 and opened for tours in 1904, Onondaga Cave has been a popular tourist attraction for 120 years. As a National Natural Landmark, it draws over 20,000 visitors annually to view its rare and majestic speleothems. The new LED system replaces the outdated incandescent lighting installed in the 1950s. This upgrade will benefit the cave’s ecosystem by reducing invasive algae growth and providing a more suitable environment for cave-dwelling creatures. Onondaga Cave State Park is located at 7556 Highway H in Leasburg. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com.

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy is now accepting applications for subgrants under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG), with applications being accepted through July 30th. Nearly $2.4 million is available to local governments for projects that will promote energy savings, energy conservation or emissions reductions in communities that were not eligible for formula EECBG funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. Applicants may request between $100,000 and $500,000 for eligible projects. To learn more about EECBG and download the required application forms, visit dnr.mo.gov/energy/grants-loans/efficiency-conservation-block-grant. Questions about the application process can be directed to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy at energy@dnr.mo.gov, 573-751-2254 or toll-free at 855-522-2796.

Dent County and MO 911 will launch a Countywide GIS Remediation Project to update the 911 mapping and improve 911 services throughout the county and the State of Missouri. The project is funded by grants using federal ARPA funds. This project aims to improve the accuracy of the county map and addressing data used by emergency responders. The Missouri 911 Service Board requires this work so that our local mapping data can be used to route 911 calls more accurately. Mapping engineers from Dent County’s 911 mapping contractor, SDR Inc., will drive throughout the cities, towns, and some recreational areas during daylight hours to verify locations. The 911 field vehicle will be clearly marked with white signs and “911 Mapping” in red letters. The 911 field vehicle will stop in front of structures to observe, verify, and document the posted address but will not knock on doors or conduct interviews with residents. If no address is posted or legible, the technician will mark the record for further investigation. They may leave the vehicle to verify the layout of apartment units in buildings but will not trespass on private property. The field work for this project is expected to be complete by the end of July. For questions regarding this project please contact Sherry Lea or Lacey Hampton with the Dent County Rural Addressing located in the Salem Community Center@The Armory at 573-729-8163; or Julie Kellerman, the project manager from SDR, Inc. at 1-800-283-1911, extension 706.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of June. The department responded to 13 accidents during the month. Officers responded to seven alarms sounding and addressed 30 animal calls, investigated six assaults or fights, one burglary, performed 31 well-being checks and 13 area checks in June. Police investigated eight domestic disputes, nine verbal disturbances, conducted 50 follow-up investigations, and provided 15 escorts. They investigated three nuisance violations, one report of fraud, and offered assistance to four motorists. The Salem Police wrote two property damage reports, made ten stealing reports, and responded to four traffic complaints. Officers investigated three suicidal persons, 18 suspicious circumstance calls, four suspicious person calls, and nine suspicious vehicle calls. Officers attempted to serve two warrants and conducted 81 traffic stops during the month. The police responded to a total of 479 incidents in June with the average response time to calls being one minute and 47 seconds. The average time spent on the scene was 17 minutes and 31 seconds.

A little can change a lot! Missouri State Parks has always been a proud supporter of our veterans and once again for the month of July, all proceeds from the Round Up program will be earmarked for events designed specifically with veterans in mind. The Round Up program provides guests with an easy opportunity to donate to state parks and historic sites by rounding up their total purchase to the nearest dollar. Normally, the money rounded up will be used at the park where the purchase is made. However, in July all money raised will help fund special events and programs for veterans. In the past, funds have been used for events such as the Hero Deer Hunt held at Mark Twain State Park and the Veteran Deer Hunt held at Crowder State Park. These events invite veterans to apply and be chosen to participate in a managed deer hunt at the parks. All permits, food, lodging and guide services are free to the veterans, thanks in part to the donations from the Round Up program. For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit mostateparks.com. Missouri State Parks is a division of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

The Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission has approved the largest Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) to date, allocating $14.6 billion for transportation projects from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2029. The FY 2025-2029 STIP includes additional funding from General Revenue, approved by the Missouri General Assembly and signed by Governor Mike Parson. Key projects include improvements to Interstates 70 and 44, repairs to low-volume minor roads, and upgrades to bridges, airports, and rail crossings. Of the total $14.6 billion, $10.7 billion is earmarked for road and bridge construction, averaging about $2.1 billion per year. Missouri Department of Transportation Director Patrick McKenna said, “This historic investment in transportation infrastructure will benefit Missourians across the state.” The STIP covers maintenance for Missouri’s 33,811 miles of roads and 10,392 bridges and culverts. It also includes plans for non-highway transportation and details on operations and maintenance activities for the next three years. For more information or updates, visit modot.org or call 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (275-6636).

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning in the courthouse. Grant Wilson from Congressman Jason Smith’s Rolla office was in to touch base with the Commissioners. Wilson reported that as a result of the assassination attempt Saturday of former President Donald Trump the House Oversight Committee has scheduled a meeting with the Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle for Monday, July 22nd. He also noted that Congress is off this week necessitating the weeklong wait for the meeting. In the road report District One Commissioner Wes Mobray said grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2400, 4235, 4237, 4240 and 5600. He also reported that a man had gone to Springfield for oil for chip and seal, and he had two of his crew out. Mobray also noted that he and Dent County Collector Shannon Vankirk would be attending a City Hall meeting that night at Bunker regarding SB190. District Two Commissioner Gary Polk reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2010, 2020, 2025, 4310, and 4340. He said rock would be added and grading done on county road 3355. Polk also reported that Monday part of his crew took the backhoe to the Sligo area to clean out culverts and bridges on county roads 4010, 4032, and 4480. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson reported that he was gone on vacation last week and would meet with the Tourism Tax Committee Monday night. Larson also mentioned that the County had received information from the Missouri Department of Agriculture about the opportunity to enroll in the Department’s Re-monumentation Program for 2025. The Commission will meet with the County Surveyor before making a decision for next year. Dent County is already participating in the program this year and has $8,300 budgeted for it. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said that bills and payroll were being approved by the Commissioners for payment. She also noted that absentee voting continues through August 5th and July 24th is the last date to mail out a ballot. If you have questions about voting, registration, dates, etc., contact her office at 573-729-4144. Vankirk was in to discuss SB190 after speaking with MAC attorney Travis Elliott. She also sent Elliott the City/County Collection contact to review and get more clarification on that due to SB190. At 10:30 the Commissioners opened bids for concrete work at the road department salt shed. The bid from Godi Excavating was for $28,490.00 and from Gray Construction was $27,880.00. The Commissioners voted 3-0 to accept the Gray Construction bid. The next meeting of the Commissioners will be Thursday morning at the Courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

An accident occurred in Dent County Sunday afternoon at 12:44 on Highway K at Highway Z. According to the Highway Patrol report a northbound 2012 Nissan Versa, driven by 75-year-old Joan Sutton of Salem, pulled into the path of an eastbound 2014 Ram 1500, driven by 40-year-old Thomas Barnard of Rolla. Sutton suffered serious injuries and was flown by Phelps Air to Barnes Jewish Hospital in St. Louis. The report stated that Sutton and Barnard were both wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. Both vehicles were totaled and removed from the scene by Whitaker’s Towing.

An accident occurred Sunday evening at 5:30 in Phelps County on private property near County Road 3140. According to the Highway Patrol report 69-year-old Randy Romine of Rolla was operating a southbound 2005 Honda Rancher. The Honda overturned, ejecting Romine, and then rolling over him. He suffered serious injuries and was transported by St. James Ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla. The report stated that Romine was not wearing any safety equipment at the time of the accident. The Honda sustained minor damage and was driven from the scene.

An accident occurred in Phelps County Saturday afternoon at 1:14 on Highway 63 at Phelps County Road 5240. According to the Highway Patrol report a northbound 2010 Ford Edge, driven by 47-year-old Esther Gann of Licking, was following a 2005 Chevrolet Colorado, driven by 38-year-old Scott Jenkins of Newburg. Jenkins slowed to make a right turn and Gann failed to yield causing the Ford to strike the rear of the Chevrolet. The Chevrolet then traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. Jenkins, along with a 14-year-old male juvenile, suffered serious injuries and both were transported by Phelps Health EMS to Phelps Health. The report stated that Gann and the juvenile were both wearing safety restraints, while Jenkins was not. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by D and D Towing, while the Ford sustained extensive damage and was driven from the scene.

The Salem Memorial District Hospital Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Brooke Bollman will begin her duties as the hospital CEO later this month. The hospital will announce her start date when it is certain. Ms. Bollman is moving to the Salem area after serving as the CEO of Caldwell Regional Medical Center in Caldwell, Kansas, since 2019. It was originally anticipated that Ms. Bollman would begin her duties on July 1st. The Salem Hospital Board of Directors would like to thank Kayla Chamberlain, the hospital CFO, for her willingness to serve as Interim CEO until Brooke Bollman’s arrival at SMDH.

The Missouri State Oil & Gas Council will hold its quarterly meeting on July 17 at 10:00 am in the Land Survey and Agriculture building, located at 1251 Gale Dr in Rolla. The council is responsible for adopting and amending regulations related to the oil and gas industry in Missouri. Its primary objectives include: Promoting economic development and production of Missouri’s oil and gas resources, ensuring proper management of wastes from oil and gas wells protecting

groundwater aquifers potentially affected by well drilling, and establishing standards for well drilling, operation, and underground storage of hydrocarbons. The public is welcome to attend these meetings, Webex is also available. Those wishing to address the council on any agenda item must notify the department beforehand by emailing council secretary cara.bird@dnr.mo.gov, if attending remotely. In-person attendees can complete a Speaker Request form at the registration table. For more information about the Missouri State Oil & Gas Council and its activities, visit the Department of Natural Resources website or contact the Missouri Geological Survey in Rolla at 573-368-2100.

Governor Mike Parson signed into law what many are referring to as the Veteran Omnibus Bills, Senate Bill 912, and HB1495. In these bills, the Missouri Veterans Commission (MVC) is charged with creating a new program to aid in the efforts to prevent Veteran suicide. The Veterans Mental Health Program will be the Commission’s fourth core program. MVC also operates the Veterans Homes Program, Veterans Cemeteries Program, and the Veterans Service Program. Governor Parson said that we are proud to be a leading state for veterans, military members, and their families where they can find professional success, affordability, welcoming communities, and, above all, support and respect for their service to our great nation. He went on to say that the legislation we are signing continues our commitment to our nation’s heroes that Missouri will remain one of the best places for veterans and service members to live, work, and raise a family. A special thank you to Representative Dave Griffith and Senator Ben Brown for leading these important efforts to protect, honor, and support Missouri’s military members, both past and present. MVC Executive Director (Ret.) Col. Paul Kirchhoff said that since our inception, the Missouri Veterans Commission has been helping Missouri’s Veterans, and we are honored to be able to help in a new way. He went on to comment that this cause is near and dear to my heart, as I have lost close friends to suicide, and I am not the only one. We are losing Veterans every day, and whatever we need to do to curb that, we are all in. MVC is working on a timeline for the rollout of the new program. SB912 and HB1495 require MVC to review the provisions of the Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019 and all subsequent regulations and then compile an annual report first due on July 1, 2025. MVC will work in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Mental Health to “provide recommendations and make efforts to adopt procedures, programs, treatment options, aid, and other assistance necessary to assist in the efforts to prevent Veteran suicide.” The Missouri Veterans Commission operates seven State Veterans Homes, five Veterans Cemeteries, and the Veterans Services Program. The Commission is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care for Veterans, seamlessly integrated with the Veteran community,

emphasizing a culture of transparency and excellence. For more information about Missouri Veterans Commission programs, call 573-751-3779 or visit mvc.dps.mo.gov.

The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) will host a family fishing event on July 23 at Little Prairie Conservation Area in Phelps County. The event will take place from 6-8 p.m. at William E. Towell Lake. MDC staff will be on hand to provide assistance and instruction to families new to fishing. Fishing poles and lures will be provided for participants. The event is open to all, but is specifically designed for families. Anglers between 16 and 64 years old will need a fishing permit. Little Prairie Conservation Area is located at 12600 Prairie Lake Road, approximately five miles east of Rolla. While the program is free, registration is limited and required. Interested participants can register online at the MDC website or contact Lance Lewis at Lance.Lewis@mdc.mo.gov for more information. MDC reminds residents that various virtual and in-person programs are available across the state. A full listing of these programs can be found at mdc.mo.gov/events.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday for their regular meeting at the courthouse. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance due to prior commitments. First District Commissioner Wes Mobray was appointed as acting presiding commissioner. Philip Karr and Rich Green attended with their concerns still about the truck traffic from Royal Oak Charcoal as it has now returned after the county put up their road signs. Royal Oak, after a discussion with the commission, stated they would be putting up their own truck signs on their property but they have not been installed yet There are still issues on Route JJ at the end of state maintenance where there is no sign by the county or Royal Oak, and the highway patrol has told residents they can’t do anything unless a sign is posted, and county deputies can’t write citations without an ordinance which the commission has yet to finalize as they are trying to make sure the ordinance doesn’t impede local truck traffic from using the roads to do their jobs. Karr would like to see the sign prohibiting trucks over ten tons placed at that location. Denver Ellis brought in a sample initiative petition that would allow the public to place the questions on the ballot of “Shall the County of Dent exempt senior citizens from increases in the property tax liability due on such senior citizen’s primary residence? Yes or No.” County Clerk Angie Curley took the petition from Ellis but said she only certifies signatures. Ellis said a petition similar to this was passed by a county in southwest Missouri and Curley asked him which one, but Ellis did not have the information with him. He will provide that to Curley so she can follow up the petition to she what steps need to be taken. Curley did say that Ellis would need to collect 362 signatures for the initiative to be put on the ballot. The petition when completed would have to be delivered to the commission. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said three grader drivers are busy patch grading numerous roads with the damage from the rain with two men hauling materials to a number of those roads. Mobray said brush cutting is being done to county road 6660. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said materials are being added and grading done on Dent County Road 2160, while only grading would be done on county roads 2165, 2170 and 4290. He said brush was being cut on county roads 3260 and 3290, and a crew was fixing a tire on grader #37. Gary Fritzinger came in to talk about getting the culverts cleaned out on county road 4030 as well as possibly getting the bent parts cut off. Commissioner Polk said he would check into it. County Clerk Curley said excused absentee voting continues at the courthouse until August 5th and no-excuse absentee voting will begin July 23rd. She also said the last day to mail out a ballot will be July 24th. The treasurer received a check from Terry Baker in the amount of $7,000 for chip and seal of 2/10ths of a mile on county road 2370. He will maintain the road for five years and the commission will have the prosecutor draw up an agreement. The next commissioner meeting will be Monday morning at the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Utilities Committee meeting was called to order at 6:15 Wednesday evening at the City Auditorium. Finance Director Houston presented first with her finance report. During which she highlighted several utility line items, in summary the Electric Fund, Electric D&R Fund, and Electric Reserved Fund totaled a little over 2.5 million dollars, this is an increase of about 1.3 million dollars from the same time last year. The Water Fund, corresponding D&R, and Reserve Fund totaled nearly 1.7 million dollars, the difference compared to the beginning balance is an increase of $34,524. The Sewer Fund, corresponding D&R, and Reserve Funds had a beginning balance of $471,454 and an ending balance of $834,696. An attending citizen asked for clarification about the expenses on chemical supplies for sludge and sewer tools, including a hydrovac truck. Director Houston elaborated on the amounts spent, clarifying the expenditures. Utility Director Paine then arrived at the podium to report on work updates. He stated the water department has been focused on water service line repairs, a major sewer repair off Hickory and 11th street among their routine responsibilities. The Electric department focused on reported outages mostly caused by local wildlife, streetlight replacement, and provided assistance to other departments for infrastructure repairs. City Administrator Sally Burbridge reported that the approved electric and trash rates will go into effect on the September Billing cycle, while the approved sewer rates will go into effect on the October billing cycle. On the topic of the MPUA Mutual Aid Agreement, which for context, is a multi-community agreement designed to be utilized under conditions when time is of the essence to save lives, prevent human suffering, and/or mitigate property damage following an emergency. Director Paine informed the committee that the city’s current agreement expires August 1st, and would need to be renewed by an authorized signature should the city decide to continue to participate in the program for the 18th consecutive year. Discussions regarding liabilities, updated insurance requirements, commitments to other communities including those out of the state of Missouri, logistics of communications during a disaster, the presentation of time sensitive documents, overall expenses, the city’s emergency action plans and personnel were all raised by committee members and citizens in attendance. A motion was then made by Kyle Williams to amend a prior motion, and moved to recommend continuation of the city’s participation in the mutual aid program provided the necessary updates with current administration and a legal review. John Hambacher seconded the motion and stated that the city needs to be sure that they are meeting all requirements of the agreement. The motion was approved unanimously. Catherine Dent asked to obtain an updated disaster manual from the city. Director Paine stated he will provide that. The committee also discussed water meter size fees, with John Hambacker presenting documents and Kyle Williams providing comparative information from nearby towns. Two options were considered for metering fees: one based on account and the other on service line size. It was agreed that this would be discussed further in future meetings. At 7:18 PM a motion to adjourn was made and approved by all members present.

The Board of Aldermen met at the City Hall Auditorium Tuesday at 6:00 in the evening. Salem Police Chief Joe Chase updated the board in regards to the bidding on two Dodge Durango police cruisers, this is apart of an ongoing vehicle replacement plan. The purchase price of these two vehicles is $83,936, and a $13,908.40 police equipment package required for the department’s use. The funds will come out of the Capital Improvement budget set aside specifically for purchasing and outfitting patrol cars. A motion was made and approved unanimously by the Aldermen. Bill 3612, has to do with the repeal of a redundant and duplicate ordinance. Repealing Section 710.350 keeps all utility rates in the same Chapter 700 instead of scattered through different sections of City Code thus making it easier for anyone trying to identify the correct rates. This repeal was approved 3-0. Bill 3613, 3614, and 3615 were each derived from recommendations made by the Utility Committee during their meeting on June 12th to maintain the current kwh rate for all in-city electric utility customers and the elimination of the Service Availability fee for residential and commercial accounts. The Utility Committee also recommended transferring from Prior Year Fund Balances to complete the 25% Reserve Fund Goal and eliminating the Service Availability Fee which was used this past year to rebuild the Reserve Fund. These bills were passed 3-0. Reports were then heard from Mayor Greg Parker at which time he passed on his gratitude to Fleetwood Pyrotechnics LLC for their hard work putting on a successful 4th of July fireworks display, he also thanked KSMO Media for live streaming the parade earlier that day. Parks and Rec. Director Melisa DuBois reported that repairs to the city pool were likely to start as soon as this week. She also reminded all those in attendance that they’re working with Intercounty Electric Cooperative for the Movie Night at the Park, July 20th at dark. They will be showing the movie Sonic the Hedgehog 2, this event is free to the public. Alderman John Whelan complimented the work done by the Parks and Rec department regarding various summer programs, stating he’s heard a lot of positive feedback from the community. At 6:14 the meeting was adjourned.

The Board of Adjustments held a meeting in the City Hall Auditorium at 5:30 in the evening Tuesday. In new business there were two requests for variances of city ordinances. The first was a request reduces the required parking spaces to 1 parking space for each 207 square feet of gross floor area for a retail business that is being proposed at Lot 3 (3B) of the Scenic Rivers Plaza subdivision, owned by Ridge Properties I, LLC. The second request was for a variance to allow placement of a structure inside the rear setback of the property located at 200 Walnut Hill Dr., owned by Michael Letchworth II. Both requests were approved and the meeting was adjourned.

The Dent County Fire Protection Board of Directors met Tuesday evening at the fire station. The financial report showed an ending balance of $176,124.92 as of June 30th. Bills, payments, and statements were reviewed by the board along with the budget for the year. It was noted to the board the tax levy will have to be set at the August board meeting as it must be submitted to the state by September 1st. The monthly reimbursement report showed a total of 12 calls for the month of June bringing the total year to date to 155. The department responded to two vehicle fires during the month, two medical assist calls, three gas leaks, one outside rubbish fire call, one special type of incident call, one grass fire, one fire call that was classified as other, and they had one call that was a false alarm. In old business, the board received three bids for the repair, sealing, and restriping of the parking lot. The board accepted the lowest bid from Pierce Asphalt for $9,450.00 provided money was available later in the year. Chief Dennis Floyd asked the board to declare some equipment as surplus which included a 1990 Dodge Ram 350, a John Deere Gator that had 219.5 hours on it with a diesel engine, and a NorthStar 55 gallon skid unit with a Honda engine. After discussion, the board agreed to declare all three items as surplus and to list the items on Purple Wave to be sold. In new business, the board discussed some sort of legal representation for the department moving forward. They also discussed insurance policies and what options may be available such as increasing deductibles to save money. The board also discussed the AFG Grant as Chief Floyd asked where the district was on getting help with the grant and how much they should ask for as there is a 10% match. Chief Floyd will get more information for the board. The board reviewed and approved an early reimbursement request from Nathan Kinsey of $600. In his report, Chief Floyd reported the four firefighters that attended training in June will be implementing the new ideas at local trainings. The next meeting of the Dent County Fire Protection District Board will be at 6:00 Tuesday, August 13th at the fire station and it will be open to the public.

The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce announced the winners for the 2024 Independence Day Parade. Taking 1st Place in the Commercial Category was Town & Country Bank in Salem, while taking 1st Place in the Non-Commercial Category was the Salem Full Gospel Church. Both winners received the $100 prize for taking 1st place. The winner of the Best Horsemanship during the parade went to Jill and Jodie Dean. They received a $50 prize for their achievement. Congratulations to all those who had entries in the parade which was well attended considering the heat.

The City of Salem Utility Committee meeting will be held tonight at 6:15 at the Old City Hall Auditorium at 202 North Washington. The committee will hear receive updates on the financials from Stacey Houston which will include the end of the year reports on electric, water and sewer funds. The committee will hear reports from the utility crews, hear about the effective dates of the utility rates, discuss the removal of the availability fee for the 7/15 through 8/15 bill that would be received on September 1st, trash rate changes as per the new three-year agreement that will begin September 1st raising to $18.90 the first year, sewer rate changes with a public hearing to be held on July 23rd. The rate changes would be scheduled to go into effect for the bill your would received October 1st. The committee will discuss the mutual aid agreement with MPUA and discuss water meter fees. The committee will hear questions and comments before adjourning. The Utility Committee meeting tonight at 6:15 at the City Hall Auditorium is open to the public. 

The Lifeway Center has rescheduled it’s hours to be open today. They had to close yesterday due to the heavy amounts of rainfall the Salem area received. The Lifeway Center is located at 701 N. Main St. in Salem. If you have any questions you can give them a call them at 730-1030.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reports the following 2024 July Fourth holiday statistics for the counting period of 6 p.m., Wednesday, July 3, through 11:59 p.m., Sunday, July 7, 2024. Troopers worked ten boating crashes, which included seven injuries and zero fatalities. Troopers made 11 boating while intoxicated arrests. One person drowned over the holiday weekend. In 2023, there were 11 boating crashes, which included two injuries and no fatalities. One person drowned during last year’s July Fourth holiday. Troopers made 10 boating while intoxicated arrests over last year’s July Fourth holiday weekend. Troopers worked 382 traffic crashes, which included 159 injuries and eight fatalities. Troopers also made 147 DWI arrests. During the 2023 counting period, 15 people were killed and 646 injured in Missouri over the holiday in 1,505 traffic crashes. Last year during the counting period, troopers arrested 125 people for driving while intoxicated. The fatality statistics in this news release could change if late deaths occur, if other departments report fatalities after this news release was sent out, or if a fatality is determined to be caused by a medical condition rather than a traffic/boating/drowning incident.

An accident occurred in Crawford County Monday afternoon at 12:25 on I-44 at the 214-mile marker in Bourbon. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2023 GMC Sierra crashed as the driver, 56-year-old Travis Hall of St. James, had a medical issue. The GMC

travelled off the right side of the roadway striking a sign and a bridge. Hall suffered serious injuries and was flown by Arch Helicopter to Mercy Hospital in Creve Coeur. The report stated that Hall was not wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The GMC was totaled and removed from the scene by Chris and Sons Towing.

The Missouri Department of Transportation is conducting an environmental study, called Forward 44, of more than 250 miles of Interstate 44 from the Oklahoma state line to the Route 100 east interchange near Gray Summit in Franklin County. This summer, MoDOT is holding a series of public meetings and encourages the public to give input on their concerns and observations along I-44. I-44 is a vital east-west link across Missouri. A 2008 study showed the aging route needs additional roadway capacity to accommodate the increased travel demand. Since the highway was built more than 50 years ago, evolving engineering standards and safety components mean many portions of I-44 are inconsistent with current design standards, and the pavement and bridges need repairs. The Forward 44 project is an effort to update and validate the outcomes of that 2008 Purpose and Need Study and provide the opportunity for input from stakeholders and the public along the I-44 corridor. MoDOT Assistant Southwest District Engineer Greg Chapman and lead for the Forward 44 study said that I-44 continues to be one of Missouri’s most important corridors for passenger travel and commercial trucking. This study is the first step in preparing for future projects along this interstate. He went on to note that getting input from the public who travel the roadway daily will help identify areas of concern and can assist MoDOT with improving safety and mobility for generations to come. The public is invited to attend one of the public meetings to be held along the I-44 corridor in Missouri. Of the five scheduled meetings the closest for Dent County residents will be Thursday evening, July 18th, from 5:00 to 7:00 at the Rolla City Hall, 901 N. Elm Street in Rolla. The public is welcome to attend the session and location that is most convenient. All meetings will share the same information which will also be available on the project website. The public will be able to provide comments in person or online at modot.org/forward44 from July 10 through Aug. 21. For more information on the I-44 Corridor Study and the dates and locations of other public meetings, call MoDOT at ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit the Forward 44 website for the latest updates and to sign up for Forward 44 news.

The Missouri Department of Conservation and the Missouri Community Forestry Council are accepting nominations for the 2024 Missouri Arbor Award of Excellence. The annual award recognizes communities, institutions, businesses, organizations and individuals that make significant and long-lasting efforts to care for trees in their communities. The Arbor Award of Excellence shines the spotlight on anyone who has improved trees in their community. Any significant program, project, or event that contributes to the care or maintenance of trees could qualify for an award. Winners receive a framed award, a full registration scholarship to the MCFC conference in August, an extra ticket to the award banquet during the conference, a community forestry reference book, and a $50 gift card. Nominations are due by Monday, July 15. For more information and nomination forms, visit mdc.mo.gov.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Monday morning in the courthouse. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley appointed District One Commissioner Wes Mobray as acting Presiding Commissioner in the absence of Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson who was absent due to a prior commitment. In the road report Mobray said that brush would be cut on Dent County Roads 5100, 5103, and 5105, plus a mechanic was coming from Jefferson City to work on the other brush cutter that has been broken down in the Montauk area for nearly two months. He also reported that the transmission was being serviced on Grader #38, since the oil sample from the last service contained metal shavings. He also noted that due to those test results the commission is considering the purchase of extended warranties on the last two Cat graders that were purchased. Mobray said that Pickup #123 has a tailgate problem the men are working on, plus his crew will be checking roads in southern Dent County for storm damage from last Thursday and Friday. District Two Commissioner Gary Polk reported that grading would be done on Dent County Roads 2590, 2593, 2600 and 4290, plus brush was going to be cut on county roads 2437 and 3220. He noted that weather permitting his crew would be installing a culvert on county road 6160. Curley reported that 

bills were being approved by the commissioners for payment and that registration to vote in the August 6th primary continues through August 5th, plus absentee voting with an excuse continues through the 5th. She said that no excuse absentee voting will be July 23rd through August 5th and that her office would be open Saturday, August 3rd from 8:00 until 12:00 for absentee voting, plus she noted that the voting equipment will be tested July 24th at 9:00 in the morning. Curley also reminded voters to bring a photo id to the polls and no electioneering is allowed in the polls or within 25 feet of the polls. This includes hats, buttons, clothing, etc. She noted that this is a primary election and that voters will have to select a party ballot between the Republican, Democratic or Libertarian parties and sample ballots are available by mail, email, fax, or they can be picked up in her office. She said anyone with questions can contact her office at 573-729-4144. Curley also said she balanced with the collector and assessor for the month of June on all abatements, add-ons, and collections. At last Thursday’s meeting the commission signed the assessor’s contract for map and land transfers with Justin Basham for $600 in monthly installments and the contract runs from July 15, 2024, through December 31, 2024. The next meeting of the commission will be Thursday morning in the courthouse at 9:00 and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will hold their regular meeting this evening at 6:00 in the Old City Hall Auditorium at 202 North Washington. After approval of the agenda and the consent agenda the Board will hear Public Comments. The Board will then consider approval of bids for 2 Police Department Dodge Durangos and a variety of Police Department Equipment. The next item of business will be the Second reading of Bill No. 3612 repealing Chapter 710, Article III, Section 710.350 of the City Code, and

Bills No. 3613, 3614, and 3615, all dealing with the provision of electric services by the City of Salem. City Officials will then present reports followed by adjournment. The meeting this evening of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen is open to the public.

An accident occurred in Crawford County Sunday evening at 7:02 on White River Road two miles east of Highway 19. According to the Highway Patrol report an eastbound 2005 Polaris Ranger, operated by a 15-year-old male juvenile from Cuba, Missouri, began skidding and traveled off the right side of the roadway. A passenger, 27-year-old Kandis Barton of Cuba, suffered moderate injuries and was transported by Steelville Ambulance to Phelps Health in Rolla. The report stated that Barton was wearing safety equipment, while the juvenile was not. The Polaris sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by a private party.

The Dent County Sheriff’s office has released some reports. On Monday, July 1st, Deputies took a report for a burglary in which firearms, camping equipment and other items were stolen. The incident occurred in the 10,000 block of Highway 19 North. The victim, an 80-year-old Salem man, advised that the property was broken into on June 29th or June 30th. The investigation is ongoing. Then on Tuesday, July 2nd, Deputies responded to the 1400 block of West Scenic Rivers Boulevard for a wanted

subject. The suspect, a 31-year-old Salem man, was taken into custody and transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated. The suspect was in possession of suspected methamphetamine and the investigation is ongoing. Also, on the 2nd Deputies responded to the 400 block of Private Lane 333 for report of property damage. The victim, a 29-year-old Salem man, advised that a known subject damaged a tire to his vehicle. The investigation is ongoing. Finally on the 2nd Deputies responded to the 100 block of County Road 6100 for a report of stolen firearms. The victim, a 40-year-old Salem woman, stated a known subject stole multiple firearms from the residence. Further investigation revealed a portion of the firearms had been pawned or sold in other jurisdictions. Suspect information was obtained, and the investigation remains open. If you have any information regarding any ongoing investigation, please call the Dent County Sheriff’s office at 573-729-3241.

The Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) is highlighting Vehicle Theft Prevention Month this July. With vehicle thefts up 25% nationwide and occurring every 31 seconds, DCI recommends: Park in well-lit areas and always lock your vehicle. Hide valuables and never leave keys inside. Don’t leave running vehicles unattended and consider anti-theft devices. If your vehicle is stolen, contact law enforcement immediately, then your insurance carrier. DCI notes that auto policies typically only cover vehicle-related items. Personal belongings may require separate homeowners or renters’ insurance claims. Find more theft prevention tips at NHTSA.gov/theft.

This week is your last chance to see nineteen art reproductions of paintings by Rudolph (Rudy) Wendelin, courtesy of Mark Twain National Forest, on display at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center in Salem. The Wendelin exhibit showcases the historic artist’s iconic Smokey Bear campaign imagery that he created during his decades of service to the U.S. Forest Service, starting in the 1930s. The exhibit will be concluding this Friday July 12th. You can visit the ONCRC Monday through Friday from 9:00 in the morning to 5:00 in the afternoon. On loan from the USDA National Agricultural Library, these replica paintings were completed from 1977 through 1995 and remain the most famous depictions of Smokey Bear. Painter Rudy Wendelin worked for the Forest Service as an illustrator beginning in 1933 and was the mastermind behind Smokey’s human-like appearance in his signature ranger hat and blue jeans. Thanks to Wendelin’s art, Smokey’s message “Only YOU can prevent wildfires” has prevailed through the generations. Jordan Mays, Community Engagement Specialist for Mark Twain National Forest helped arrange this special event and hopes it will spread awareness of Smokey Bear and his important message of caring for forests through wildfire prevention. Forest Service staff, art presentations, educational content, commemorative memorabilia, and special appearances by Smokey Bear have been ongoing during the scheduled showing that began mid June. If you missed him during the parade you can go back and watch in on the various KSMO social media sites. The ONCRC is located at 202 S Main St in Salem. If you have any questions about the exhibit, contact Jordan Mays at (573) 210-5393 or the Forest’s office in Salem at (573) 729-6656. 

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 Street. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda, the minutes from the May and June meetings will be reviewed before hearing the financial report and approval of bills followed by a review of the budget. Discussion will then by held on the repair, sealing, and restriping of the parking lot and surplus equipment. New business to be brought before the board include the discussion of legal representation for the department and the new insurance policy, the AFG grant, and reimbursement requests. Chief Floyd will then give his report to the board. The date will then be set for the August meeting before adjourning. The meeting Tuesday evening will be open to the public.

The Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center at 202 S Main Street here in Salem will host a presentation of the book “Summers at Cedar Grove” this Saturday morning at 10. The author of the book Ben Timson, will be available for a book signing session. Timson was a professor of Biomedical Sciences at Missouri State University for 32 years before retiring two years ago. Summers at Cedar Grove, The Rise and Fall of an Ozark Village, is Timson’s book about his summers spent at Cedar Grove and the history of Cedar Grove, Missouri, along the Current River. The Dent County Historical Society is the sponsor of the event. For more information, please call

Deloris Gray Wood, president of the Society, at 573 729-2545 or send an email to uppercurrentriver@gmail.com.

This Thursday the 11th the Bonebrake Center of Nature and History will be having their Mudbugs Waterfest! A swimming pool full of water, some squirt guns, and of course Popsicles! They’re going to have fun games to try out this year, and maybe even an old-fashioned seed-spittin’ contest. Parents, you’ll want to bring some towels or dry clothes for the drive home. The Mudbugs Waterfest will start at 2:00 this Thursday afternoon. Suggested donation is $2 per child and any additional donations are always welcome. All funds go to the Bonebrake Center. These programs are geared for ages 6-12, but all ages are welcome! Parents, are requested to please accompany their children.

An accident occurred Saturday afternoon at 1:45 in Phelps County on Highway 68 a mile east of county road 4380. According to the Highway Patrol report a westbound 2021 Harley Davidson CVO Road Glide, operated by 52-year-old Michael Weber of Collinsville, Illinois, failed to negotiate a curve causing the vehicle to cross the center of the roadway and overturn ejecting the driver. Weber suffered serious injuries and was flown by Phelps Air to Mercy Hospital St. Louis. The report stated that Weber was not wearing safety equipment at the time of the accident. The motorcycle sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by Spurgeons Towing.