Local News

The Salem Park and Recreation Board met Wednesday evening at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. After the agenda was approved, the board began a discussion on creating a “smoke free” community ordinance that would affect all city parks, city buildings as well as enclosed areas such as pavilions, playgrounds, recreational areas and common areas like parking lots. It would also cover special events such as parades where local sidewalks and driveways could also be affected. Madison Flores from the Salem R-80 High School spoke on the dangers of second hand smoke using statistics from the EPA and other agencies, and also related a personal experience where after participating in a sporting event, the second hand smoke she was exposed to was so bad she suffered tightness in her chest and had to use an inhaler. Also speaking to the board was James Combs from the Northwood R-4 JAG program who also talked about second hand smoke as well as the dangers of vaping and how dangerous the second hand emissions can be to children. City Administrator Sally Burbridge said the ordinance presented was based on a model ordinance provided by the Dent County Health Center, but the private property and business restrictions were removed as Burbridge said local businesses have done a very good job of self-regulating smoking with most of them eliminating smoking or vaping within their place of business without government intervention. The board discussed a number of possible scenarios and if an instance should escalate, the ordinance gives enforcement privileges to an event manager, code enforcement officer, city administrator or city police. It was also asked if the Park Board was voting to recommend the entire ordinance presented to aldermen which goes beyond the park board‘s responsibility. In actuality, they were only voting to recommend the city parks and playgrounds be smoke free to the aldermen, but they could use that to take the ordinance a step further to include the city buildings and other common areas if they so desire. The Park Board approved recommending the ordinance. The Park Board also approved amending the budget to add an additional $7,689 to allow the purchase of a 2022 Ford F-250 single cab long bed with a 48-month, 125,000 mile warranty from 44 Motorsports in Rolla. The money will come from the fund balance from the previous year in the Park and Recreation Fund of over $500,000. The truck will be used to pick up trash, move equipment and also hold the large water tank for the watering of the new trees. The new truck will replace the old Dodge truck. Park and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois gave her report and said for the year 2023, a total of 1,201 athlete participated in city league youth sports programs. The 2023-24 basketball program has 174 participants up from the 149 from last year. She also stated signups for the popular “Skills and Drills” football program are scheduled to end Friday. Those who want to sign up can go to the Salem Park and Recreation Facebook Page. She said with schools being out, fliers have not been able to get distributed as scheduled. The program will be held February 5th, 6th and 8th and will be run in collaboration with the 5th and 6th grade coaches. Soccer Registration will be held starting January 25th and the cost per athlete will be $35. She also discussed much needed work on the tennis courts. She met with Pro Track and Tennis who provided an option cost of $75,000 to remove the old paint and color coat the three courts, plus another $8,000 to fix large cracks, or instead the city could pay an additional $71,000 to repair all the cracks. Dubois also recommended that when the courts are done, they should also be striped for Pickleball. She said she would like to table the five-year plan that was to be discussed so that more information on the tennis courts could be collected. The board agreed to table discussing the plan. There was a discussion on continuing the “Light Up the Park” Christmas light display as only around ten businesses participated this year. Much of the suspected decline in business participation was due to vandalism and theft. It was decided to continue the program to see if it makes a rebound next Christmas. After reviewing the financials, the meeting was then adjourned.

Missouri’s 2023-2024 deer-hunting season ended January 15th with the Missouri Department of Conservation reporting a preliminary record-setting total deer harvest for the season of 326,026. This year’s new harvest record surpasses the one set in 2006 of 325,457. Of the deer harvested, 147,705 were antlered bucks, 29,060 were button bucks, and 149,261 were does. Top harvest counties for the overall deer season were Franklin with 7,395 and Howell with 6,346. Dent County reported 1,506 antlered bucks, 339 button bucks and 2,013 does were taken for a total harvest of 3,858. Totals from the surrounding counties include Texas with 2,543 antlered bucks, 510 button bucks and 3,128 does taken for a total of 6,181 deer harvested; Crawford County had 1,949 antlered bucks, 457 button bucks and 1,999 does taken for a total of 4,405 deer harvested; Shannon County finished with 1,527 antlered bucks, 358 button bucks and 2,256 does being taken for a total of 4,141 deer harvested; Reynolds County had 1,209 antlered bucks, 329 button bucks and 1,593 does taken for a total of 3,131 deer harvested; and Phelps County had 1,321 antlered bucks, 310 button bucks and 1,362 does taken for a total deer harvest of 2,993. Hunters harvested 299,719 deer during the 2022-2023 deer hunting season with 140,735 being antlered bucks, 27,028 being button bucks, and 131,956 being does.

Dent County Assessor Jamie Homeyer wanted the public to be aware that if you are 100% disabled or are 65-years of age or older, based on your total household income you could be eligible for a Missouri Property Tax Credit of up to $1,100 for real estate taxes paid. To determine if you are eligible, visit with your tax professional or visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and click on the tab called “taxation” and go to individual taxes. You will be given options to the right and find the “property tax credit” button and clock on it to get all the details. If you owned and occupied your home for the entire year and have over five acres of property, you will need to bring your paid real estate tax receipt to your county assessor’s office, and they will fill out the required form for you to determine your credit. If you live in Dent County, stop by the Dent County Courthouse at the Dent County Assessor’s Office and speak with Jamie Homeyer. Her office hours are 8:00 in the morning to 4:30 in the afternoon, Monday through Friday. You can also call her if you have questions at 729-6010. If you live in a different county, contact your county assessor for help or any questions you may have.

The Missouri Department of Conservation says you can order shrub and tree seedlings through April 15th from the George O. White State Forest Nursery near Licking. Native trees and shrubs can help improve wildlife habitat and soil and water conservation while also improving the appearance and value of private property. The George O. White State Forest Nursery offers a variety of low-cost native tree and shrub seedlings for sale for reforestation, windbreaks, erosion control, wildlife food and cover, and other purposes. The nursery provides mainly one-year-old, bare-root seedlings with sizes varying by species. Seedlings varieties include: pine, bald cypress, cottonwood, black walnut, hickory, oak, pecan, persimmon, river birch, maple, willow, sycamore, blackberry, buttonbush, hazelnut, redbud, ninebark, elderberry, sumac, wild plum, witch hazel, and others. Seedlings are available in bundles of 10 or increments of 25 per species. Prices range from 34 cents to $1 per seedling. Sales tax will be added to orders unless tax exempt. There is a shipping fee and a $9 handling charge for each order. Receive a 15% discount up to $20 off seedling orders with a Heritage Card, Permit Card, or Conservation ID Number. The nursery grows millions of seedlings each year, but some species are very popular and sell out quickly and some seedlings occasionally succumb to harsh weather or hungry wildlife, despite the nursery staff’s best efforts. Even if a species is listed as “sold out,” customers can still place an order for those seedlings because other orders may get canceled, freeing up inventory. Customers won’t be charged for seedlings unless they are available to ship. Again, orders are now being processed so order now! Orders will be shipped or can be picked up at the nursery near Licking from February through May. The 2023-24 seedling order forms were available in the September issue of Missouri Conservationist. They are also available at MDC regional offices and nature centers, or you can contact the George O White State Forest Nursery at 573-674-3229. You can also request a form by e-mail StateForestNursery@mdc.mo.gov. You can also order your trees or shrub seedlings from the mdc.mo.gov website.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be holding their regular meeting Thursday evening at 5:30 in the R-80 Board Room. At the meeting, the board will hear the PAT report from Jessica Parker and Marybeth Patrick. Dr. Reed and Dr. Wills will give their report to the board before the building principals and Athletic Director Clay Moody give their reports. New business to be brought before the board includes setting the school year tuition rate, approving the ballot initiative names, accepted a band uniform contribution, reviewing the short and long term facility project lists, and hearing any resignations submitted. The board will then go into executive session to discuss personnel. The meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Park and Recreation Board will be meeting tonight at 5:30 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. At the meeting, they will discuss a board appointment, discuss park truck bids, discuss and review a smoke free communities ordinance for the Salem City Parks, and hear the Park and Recreation report from Park and Recreation Director Melissa Dubois. The board will also receive the budget report and budget updates, talk about the tennis courts, and review the five-year plan before adjourning. The meeting of the City of Salem Park and Recreation Board is open to the public.

From now until January 26th, Dent County voters will have the opportunity to elect members to the University of Missouri Extension Council of Dent County. The council has two positions that need to be filled in the Northern district, five in the Central district and two in the Southern district. Voting may be done at or mailed to the Dent County Extension Center at 112 East 5th Street in Salem at the Judicial Building, or you can drop off ballots at the office on the second floor of the Judicial Building between the hours of 8:00 in the morning and 4:30 in the afternoon, Monday through Thursday. Candidates include Heather Johnson and Curt Murr in the Northern District; Jodie Dean, Charlee Sue Jadwin, Allie Fleener and Kolson Seay in the Central District; and Karin Casper and Tracy Strange in the Southern District. Ballots were distributed in Friday, January 12th’s edition of Your World Today and are available at the Dent County Extension Office. If you have any questions, please call the Dent County Extension Office at 729-3196.

The Dent County Sheriffs office has released several reports. On Monday, the 8th of January, a deputy took information for a forgery report. The victim, a 70-year-old Salem man, said a check he had written had been altered and forged. The incident occurred in Texas County and he was referred to the Licking Police Department for the investigation. The next day, Tuesday the 9th, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on North Pershing Street and during the stop, the driver, a 58-year-old Salem man, was found to be in possession of suspected methamphetamine. The narcotics were confiscated and the investigation is ongoing. Later that same day, a deputy responded to the 3500 block of Route OO for a reported property dispute. The reporting party, a 59-year-old Rolla man, told deputies that a neighbor had trespassed on his property and continued to cause issues over a longstanding land dispute. Later that same day, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on South Highway 19. During the stop, suspected methamphetamine was located in the vehicle after a consent to search was granted and conducted. The narcotics were confiscated and the investigation is ongoing. On Wednesday, January 10th, deputies from the Dent County Sheriff’s Office assisted the Phelps County Sheriff’s Office in the service of an arrest warrant in the 7100 block of Route FF. The suspect, a 34-year-old Salem man, was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Phelps County Jail. If you have information regardinig an ongoing investigation, contact the Dent County Sheriffs office at 729-3241.

The Dent County Fire Protection District Board of Directors will be meeting at 6:00 this evening, January 16th at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda and review of the December minutes, the board will hear the financial report, then approve bills, and review the budget, before the calendar review and the monthly reimbursement report is heard. Old and new business will then be addressed. After hearing a report from the fire chief, the date will be set for that February meeting before adjourning. The meeting next Tuesday evening will be open to the public.

The Salem Police department has released their report for the month of November. The department responded to 12 accidents during the month. Officers also responded to two alarms sounding and addressed 37 animal calls. The department investigated two assaults or fights, performed 17 well being checks and nine area checks during the month. The department investigated 15 domestic disputes, six verbal disturbances, conducted 59 follow-up investigations and provided 23 escorts. They investigated one fraud, one harassment report, took four missing persons report, and offered assistance to seven motorists. The Salem Police wrote four property damage reports during November, plus made four stealing reports and one shoplifting report. Officers investigated two intoxicated drivers, 25 suspicious circumstance calls, six suspicious person calls and eight suspicious vehicle calls. Officers responded to two trespassing calls and attempted to serve one warrant in November. Officers conducted 96 traffic stops during the month. The police responded to a total of 556 in incidents in November. The average response time to calls during November was one minute and 57 seconds and the average time spent on the scene was 20 minutes and 05 seconds.

The Salem Public Library invites the City of Salem residents and Dent County communities to participate in their 2024 Community Survey. Information collected will be used to identify top priorities for the Library and used to develop strategic, long term plans for the future. The survey should take no longer than 5-7 minutes, and all responses will be kept anonymous. The survey is now live and a link to the survey is pinned at the top of Salem Public Library’s Facebook page. Individuals who wish to complete a paper copy of the survey will be able to do so at the Library during normal business hours. The Library is located at 403 N. Jackson Street in Salem at the intersection of 4th and Jackson Streets. The survey will close after Friday, February 9th. Community members are encouraged to visit the library to participate in current programming, utilize the many services available, access the library’s materials collection, or provide additional feedback. For questions about the survey or the Salem Public Library, its services or current programming, please contact Kate McBride, Library Director at salemmopubliclibrary@gmail.com or by phone at (573) 729-4331.

There will be a Toothbrush Rug Beginner Class this Thursday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 with Amy Terrill. Join them for a fun rug-making, hands-on workshop. Learn an easy technique to make a rug with torn strips of fabric and a modified toothbrush. These rugs are quick to make and require no sewing. In this class, you’ll learn how to begin a toothbrush rug or table runner. You will leave class with a small rug that you can either use as a trivet or continue to build at home as large as you want it to be! All projects are machine washable, dry-able and last for years! No previous experience or skills necessary. The cost of of the class is $20 which includes all the supplies. The course is for those age 18 and above. A minimum of two people need to sign up and with a maximum of 10 participants. Class registrations are first come, first serve basis with online registrations and you can sign up under “Programs” at the salemcommunitybetterment.com website for activities at the Creative Arts Center.

Volunteers for AARP will be conducting free tax filing assistance at the Salem Community Center@ the Armory again this year. This free tax filing assistance will begin on Friday, February 2nd and continue every Friday until April 5th. Appointments can be made by calling the Salem Community Center at 729-8163. This local service is provided entirely by AARP trained volunteers and will be the 20th year that Healthy Dent County has partnered with AARP to provide this free tax service to our community. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are trained in filing certain tax forms and schedules, including the Form 1040. However, the Volunteer Protection Act requires that our volunteers stay in the scope of the program. If counselors feel they do not have adequate knowledge or your return is too complex, you may need to seek another qualified counselor or paid tax assistance. Items you will need to bring with you to have your tax returns prepared include: Proof of identification such as a picture ID; Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents; or a Social Security Number verification letter issued by the Social Security Administration. You should also bring birth dates for you, your spouse and dependents on the tax return. Also needed are wage and earning statement(s) Form W-2, W-2G, 1099-R, 1099-Misc from all employers; year-end Social Security Statements showing total SS received and Medicare payments; and interest and dividend statements from banks (Forms 1099). You should bring a copy of last year’s federal and state returns if available; plus proof of bank account routing numbers and account numbers for Direct Deposit, such as a blank check or deposit slip. To file taxes electronically on a married-filing-joint tax return, both spouses must be present to sign the required forms. The Salem Community Center @ the Armory is located at 1200 West Rolla Road. Appointments can be made by calling 729-8163.

An accident happened Friday morning at 7:40 in Phelps County on westbound Interstate 44 at the 189 mile-marker. According to the highway patrol report, a 2014 Dodge 1500 van being driven by 45-year-old Sevcan Costner of Wheaton, Illinois, skidded across the center of the center line and struck a 2020 GMC Acadia being driven by 48-year-old Michael Smith of St. James. The GMC then struck the concrete barrier and came to rest in the roadway. Smith was taken by Phelps Health EMS to Phelps Health hospital for treatment of minor injuries. The GMC was totaled and removed from the scene by C&C Towing. The Dodge van had extensive damage but was able to be driven from the scene. The report stated that both drivers were wearing seat restraints at the time of the accident.

An accident occurred Saturday evening around 5:55 in Phelps County near 14680 Phelps County Road 8160. According to the highway patrol report, a 2017 Toyota Corolla driven by 30-year-old Kerry Crowley of Rolla, was traveling eastbound when the vechicle began to slide on a snow covered road. The Toyota went off the left side of the roadway, impacted a tree, and overturned on its top. Crowley suffered minor injuries and was transported by Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital. The Toyota was totaled and removed from the scene by D&D Towing. Crowley was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey announced his office obtained a judgment against Phelps County business owner of Sho-Me Labradors, Sandra Kozlowski, for violating state standards for licensed commercial dog breeders. In the judgment, the Court ruled that Kozlowski defied a previous consent judgment issued in May of 2020 for failure to comply with state law governing commercial dog breeders. Specifically, Kozlowski violated the law by keeping too many dogs, letting her breeder’s license lapse, and failing to provide dogs with fresh water or access to the outdoors. Even more disturbing, Kozlowski was keeping dogs in cages with an appalling lack of space like wire style and airline style pet crates without unfettered access to the outdoors. Under the order, Ms. Kozlowski must pay the $5,000.00 of suspended penalties from the original judgment and relinquish ownership of all remaining dogs, but for the 10 dogs specified in the Judgment and Order to the State of Missouri to be transferred to the Humane Society of Missouri. Additionally, she is banned from advertising the sale of dogs from Sho-Me Labs, with few exceptions. On January 9th, the Missouri Department of Agriculture seized 96 dogs that were taken to St. Louis where a number of veterinarians are evaluating the dogs.

The Dent County Commission met Thursday morning at the courthouse. Grant Wilson from Jason Smith’s office was in attendance and told the commission the Ways and Means Committee is discussing the non-profit exempt status of some universities who are not condemning the anti-Semitic actions at the university. The committee is considering revoking their 501C3 status. He also said the committee will be holding a hearing on an act to keep President Biden from eliminating or reducing TANF funds that help support pregnancy resource centers. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said crews would be preparing equipment for the extreme cold weather ahead and making sure it is ready to go if bad weather hits, while District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said rock would be added and spread on Dent County Road 3200 while brush would be cut on county road 3300. Workers will also be repairing trucks #72 and #68, and a driver is hailing granite chips to the shed to stockpile for the chip and seal repair later this year. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson will be attending the Phelps County PHA meeting today and the MRPC meeting tonight. He said Trim Lights, who installed the Christmas Lights on the courthouse, is still working out a few bugs repairing some wiring issues so that all the lights can be properly programmed. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported that the commission continues to work on the budget and a tentative budget will be available for the public in her office on Thursday, January 18th. Curley said the April Municipal Election will be Tuesday, April 2nd from 6:00 in the morning until 7:00 that evening. The last day to register for that election will be March 6th, absentee voting will begin February 20th, March 19th will be the first day for “no excuse” absentee voting, March 20th will be the last day to mail out a ballot, and Monday, April 1st will be the last day to vote absentee. She also wanted to remind voters that if they have recently moved, had a name change, or had problems last year when they voted, to make sure you check and update your registration in her office in the courthouse. At the last meeting, Liz Condray from SACBA told the commission about the Smithsonian exhibition” Crossroads: Change in Rural America, a Museum on Main Street” that will be at the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center March 23rd through May the 4th. The seven piece installation will be delivered and then assembled at the ONCRC for viewing. The Courthouse will be closed for Martin Luther king Day Monday, so the next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Thursday, January 18th at 9:00.

Extreme cold over the weekend and most of next week could mean the City of Salem electric utility might set a new peak this weekend through Thursday, January 18, 2024. Both major grid networks that supply Salem’s electrical power have issued weather alerts for this time period. There is no specific action required at this time, but things could change quickly, and the city is asking all electric utility customers to conserve or reduce your electrical usage as much as reasonably possible. Missouri Public Utility Alliance (MPUA), the City of Salem’s electrical supplier, is anticipating electric market prices will see upward pressure during this time. What is a peak warning? There is a chance that a new peak could be set for City of Salem electric customers. Although there areno electric market supply and demand issues right now, setting a new peak does have consequences. Setting a new peak demand would have cost impacts on the cost to the city to purchase power and that would be reflected on your utility bill moving forward. The city wants people to know that if anyone is in need of a warming station during this extreme cold snap, they may stop by the Salem Police Department Lobby which is open 24/7 at 500 North Jackson St. If there is a large enough need, the City will open additional facilities. The City appreciates everyone’s understanding and assistance in keeping electric usage as low as possible during this time of extreme cold. For questions about your bill or usage call the Utility Office at 729-4117.

A fatality accident happened late Tuesday afternoon just after 5:30 at the 118.4 mile-marker on Interstate 44 that took the life of a teen from Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a 2005 Chevrolet Malibu being driven west by a 17-year-old female juvenile of Rolla, struck a bridge pillar and became disabled in the middle of the interstate. The Malibu was then struck by a westbound 2024 Peterbilt Tractor-Trailer being driven by 41-year-old Adrian Raye of Lorena, Texas. The 17-year-old girl was pronounced dead at the scene by a Mercy paramedic at 6:09 and was taken to Shadel’s Colonial Chapel in Lebanon. A passenger in the vehicle, 18-year-old Linda Osborn of Rolla, suffered serious injuries and was taken by Cox Ambulance to the Mercy Hospital in Springfield. The Malibu was totaled. The Peterbilt sustained moderate damage. Both were removed from the scene by C & S Towing.

The City of Salem Utility Committee met Wednesday night at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. At the meeting, City of Salem Finance Director Stacey Houston presented the financial reports for the electric funds, water funds and sewer funds as well as provided usage reports. She said the electric usage is down about 1.5 million kwh from last year from July to December, while the water usage is down about 16% in that same time frame. She said interest income for all funds is above budget and she would request some budget adjustments from the aldermen to account for the extra income. She also said a year-end adjustment was made form the electric fund to reserves in the amount of $272,463, and another $300,000 went to the General Revenue Fund. Houston also reported the basis of the city’s peak demand has been reduced from 13.9 megawatts to 12.7 megawatts starting in December which will reduce the cost of electricity to the city. A committee member asked if that would reduce city electric rates, but City Administrator Sally Burbridge that is just part of what determines the actual rate, but that is ultimately what the goal is. Just the reduction of that rate by itself isn’t enough as the city is still paying a relief payment every month, reserve funding of $13,967 as well as the actual cost of electricity, and with the expected very cold temperartures this weekend, it will have to stay low to consider changing the rate. In the report, Salem’s all-in cost for per kilowatt hour is 7.813 cents which is down from 8.08 cents in October and 8.70 cents in September. Jennifer Cochran reported the bills e-mailed through Encode in December did not go through after working the previous month, but the city when sending those e-mails did not use Encode. They will continue to work on getting this resolved. She also said all municipal bills have been mailed but many people have reported not getting their bill. If you didn’t get your bill, call the city utility department to find out how much you owe so you can pay it on time. The electric rate study will begin once the auditor has completed the audit as the city has asked for the audited financials for the electric department. Burbridge said she would be attending the next MMMPEP meeting on January 18th. Public Works Director Mark Nash reported there were three water main breaks in the city from this last cold front and he expects more this weekend with temperatures expected below zero. Chairman Kyle Williams said the city currently has a water loss rate of 15 to 30% from the water pumped versus being billed. The EPA says normal municipal water loss is about 16%. The board approved the suggested Leak Protection Program Policy from Servline with some minor modifications tailored to Salem. The committee also rescinded and superseded their recommendation to the Board of Aldermen from the last meeting to now go with a leak protection plan for consumers that would pay $2,500 for water or sewer leaks on their property for $2.35 per month that will be added on the water and sewer bill, rather than the $1,000 coverage previously recommended at the last meeting that would have cost $2.00 to customers on both their water and sewer bills. These charges are NOT mandatory and customers will be able to have them removed from their bill if the alderman approves the recommendation. The committee also approved recommending to the Board of Aldermen to adopt the Telephone Consumer Protection Act wording recommended by the new collection agency. This will be added to the application for utility services in the city for new customer accounts. After some discussion on providing city utilities for those living outside the city limits, the meeting was adjourned.

The Dent County Service Unit of The Salvation Army would like to announce that they have successfully reached their Christmas Kettle Campaign goal. The total raised was $35,000. Along with the monetary donations received this year, nearly 280 local children were adopted at the Angel Tree that was located at Wal-Mart. The local Salvation Army Board would like to thank everyone who made monetary donations and/or who adopted an angel. They also extend their greatest appreciation to the dedicated volunteers that took time out of their busy holiday season to ring the bells at the kettles. The community’s continued generosity will be distributed throughout 2024 to those in Dent County.

The Salem Board of Aldermen meeting scheduled for Tuesday was postponed due to inclement weather and the closing of the Salem R-80 School District. The meeting is rescheduled for Thursday night at 6:00.

Each January, EPA seeks to raise awareness of radon exposure during National Radon Action Month, encouraging residents to protect themselves and their families by having their homes tested for the presence of radon. Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that cannot be seen, smelled or tasted. If left untreated, radon can build up indoors, leading to adverse health effects. After smoking, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S., taking the lives of approximately 21,000 Americans every year. Radon exposure is a preventable health risk, and testing for radon can help prevent prolonged exposure. Most homes in EPA Region 7’s four states are located in areas that fall within EPA Radon Zone One or Two, indicating high or moderate potential for elevated radon levels. To see if your home is in one of these areas, check EPA’s website to view a map of Radon Zones for your state. Radon testing kits can be bought online and in home improvement stores. National Radon Program Services at Kansas State University offers test kits for purchase online. EPA recommends taking action to fix your home if you discover radon levels above 4 picocuries per liter. If your home does have elevated levels of radon, a qualified professional can install a system to lower your indoor radon levels. For more guidance on how to address radon risks, see EPA’s radon website.

An accident occurred in Phelps County Monday afternoon at 2:30 on Route O about five miles south of Rolla. According to the highway patrol report, a southbound 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, driven by 30-year-old Tiffany Jones of Rolla, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck two signs and a telephone pole. Jones suffered minor injuries and was transported by a private vehicle to Phelps Health. The report stated that Jones was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Toyota sustained extensive damage and was removed from the scene by D & D Towing.

An accident occurred Monday afternoon in Phelps County at 2:45 at 17895 Highway 8. According to the highway patrol, report an eastbound 2018 Chevrolet Cruze, driven by a 17-year-old female juvenile of Steelville, traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck a culvert. The juvenile suffered minor injuries and was transported by St. James Ambulance to Phelps Health. She was wearing a safety restraint at the time of the accident. The Chevrolet sustained moderate damage and was removed from the scene by Miles and Sons Towing.

The City of Salem Utility Committee will be holding a meeting tonight at 6:15 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. At the meeting, the committee will review the financial, utility billing, discussion of the electric rate study, the agenda to an upcoming MMMPEP meeting in January, and they will hear work reports from city employees. The committee will also discuss utility policy updates and discuss outside city utility policies. The meeting is open to the public.

The Dent County Commission met Monday morning for their regular meeting at the courthouse. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams gave the sales tax figures the county received from the state this month. In the General Revenue Fund and the Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund, the county just received $98,823.09 which is down around $4,840 dollars from the January 2023 receipts of $103,664.68. For the Road and Bridge Fund, the county received $45,679.68 and that is less than the 2023 January figure of $48,267.00 received. The Jail Operating and Trust Funds each received $91,781.07 this January and that was less than the January 2023 receipt of $96,535.72. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said three trucks would be adding rock and two graders will be distributing those materials on Dent County Road 5450. He also said crews would be working on trucks once it starts to rain. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk said brush would be cut on county road 3300 while other men would perform a number of maintenance tasks including work on tractor #6, fixing a flat on county truck #22 before installing a spreader box and plow on that truck, and fixing a flat on the backhoe. Presiding Commissioner Gary Larson said he was saddened to learn that Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Director Tabitha Utley will be leaving her position at the chamber at the end of the month. The chamber is currently taking resumes looking for her replacement. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said the final certification for all political subdivisions will be Tuesday, January 23rd if they want something on the April Municipal Election ballot. At the last meting, Corky Stack with AEA Design Engineering came in to talk with the commission about the courthouse exterior repairs and lights. The next commission meeting will be Thursday at 9:00 at the courthouse and it is open to the public.

The Dent County Sheriff’s Department has released several reports. On Wednesday, December 27th, deputies responded to the 300 block of Dent County Road 4180 for the report of a domestic disturbance. The victim, a 21-year-old Salem woman, told deputies that her 24-year-old boyfriend had broken her car window when she attempted to leave the location. She did not wish to pursue criminal charges and the parties were separated. On Monday, January 1st, deputies responded to the 400 block of Dent County Road 5090 for a trespassing complaint. A 36-year-old Salem woman stated that her neighbor, a 40-year-old Salem man, entered her property without her permission. The man was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail where he was released on a criminal citation. Later that same day, the suspect was again arrested for trespassing at the same location and was then placed on a 24-Hour Hold pending the application of warrants. Finally on Thursday, on the 4th of January, a deputy responded to Highway 119 and Dent County Road 6090 for the report of a wanted subject. The suspect, a 49-year-old Licking man, was arrested and transported to the Dent County Jail where he was incarcerated on his warrant. If you have any information regarding an investigation please call the Dent County Sheriff’s office at 729-3241.

The Dent County Fire Protection district board of directors will be meeting at 6:00 tonight at the fire station located at #2 South Main Street. After the roll call andapproval of the consent agenda and review of the December minutes, the board will hear the financial report, then approve bills, and review the budget, before the calendar review and the monthly reimbursement report is heard. Old and new business will then be addressed. After hearing a report from the fire chief, the date will be set for that February meeting before adjourning. The meeting next Tuesday evening will be open to the public.

The Scenic Rivers Industries, Inc. — Sheltered Workshop wants to announce that due to construction of their parking lot, the Recycling Bins beside the building will be out of commission from January 6th through January 18th. They will have temporary bins in the parking lot in front of the building. They appreciate your understanding and patience.

The Salem R-80 School District will hold an informational meeting in the Rotary Club room at the Salem Community Center@The Armory on Thursday, January 11th, at 4:00 in the afternoon, to share information regarding the Salem R-80 School District initiatives for a bond issue and increase in the property tax operating levy that will be on the April ballot. According to a press release from Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed, with the district having successfully completed most projects in their existing long-term facilities plan, the focus now lies on the replacement of William Lynch Elementary School which is the major reason for a new six million dollar bond issue. The approximate replacement cost for the school stands at $16 million, with an estimated cost of $375 to 400 per square foot for new construction. This would cause the district to reach its maximum bonding capacity of $9.5 million, while still dependent on a FEMA grant. However, a silver lining emerged as the District secured a 90/10 FEMA grant, where FEMA will pay 90% of the cost of a storm shelter shell, enabling the district to save approximately $4 million in construction costs where a wing will be built at the Upper Elementary that will house approximately eight classrooms. Additionally, the future acquisition of the Gott building currently owned by SBU for $750,000, priced at $50 per square foot, is significantly lower than the new construction cost and would further aid the effort to find a cost effective replacement for William Lynch. Once the FEMA addition is complete at the Upper Elementary and the Gott building is remodeled for the change, Salem R-80 would relocate Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten classes to the Gott building, and first grade to the Upper Elementary, all at a fraction of the expense of constructing an entirely new building. The bond would not only purchase the Gott Building, but provide funding for other capital projects include the District’s portion of the FEMA building, renovations at the Gott building to tailor it for an early childhood center, completion of the interior for the construction trades building, structural repairs to the AG building, and several smaller projects aimed at facility repairs. If passed, the increase in the debt service would be an additional 34 cents per $100 assessed valuation bringing the new total to 79 cents per $100 assessed valuation. The school is looking to also increase the operating tax levy from the state minimum of $2.75 per $100 assessed valuation to $3.65 per $100 assessed valuation. This would allow the district to remain competitive with teacher salaries to other schools in the immediate area. Salem’s base salary is $32,000 which is lower than eight surrounding districts, and the assessed valuation per student for Salem is $75, the lowest among those eight surrounding districts. Salem’s support staff base salaries had a 20% raise in the last three years going from $8.86 to $10.87 per hour, but that is still below the state minimum wage by $1.43. This would allow the district to increase the support staff base as well. In the release, Reed says to provide Salem students with an exceptional education that prepares them for success after graduation, the district must have the best teachers available. With funding from the increased operating levy, the District will offer more competitive pay and benefits, improving our ability to recruit and retain high-quality teachers and staff. If both issues are passed, the citizens who pay Salem R-80 District taxes would see an increase of $1.24 per $100 assessed valuation to their tax bills going $3.20 to $4.24 per $100 assessed valuation. Any one interested in learning more about the projects or how the funds are to be used is welcome to attend the meeting Thursday afternoon at the Salem Community Center@ The Armory!

An accident happened Friday night in Franklin County on westbound I-44 at the 245.6 mile marker. According to the highway patrol report, a 2013 Kia Optima driven westbound by 29-year-old Kyla Destifanes of Salem, was going too fast for the road conditions. She lost control of the vehicle which then went off the left side of the roadway with the left front of the vehicle striking the median wall. The Kia then re-entered the roadway and crossed I-44 exiting the roadway to the right where the vehicle struck a ditch. Destifanes suffered moderate injuries and was taken by the Union Ambulance to the Mercy Hospital in Washington. Destifanes was not wearing a seat restraint at the time of the accident. The Kia was totaled and left at the scene. It was secured by the highway patrol.

The Dent County Commissioners met Thursday morning at the courthouse for their first meeting of the new year. Thom Haines was in to ask the commission if any charges had been filed against the person who struck the Dent County Assessor’s vehicle from behind and the Presiding Commission Gary Larson said HE was not aware of any at this time, but told Haines to check with the assessor to see if she knew. In the road report, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said two trucks would be adding rock to Dent County Road 6420 and it will also be graded. Mobray also reported grading would be done on county road 6600 and brush would be cut on county road 6580. District 2 Commissioner Gary Polk stated rock would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 4060 while only grading would be done on county roads 4070 and 5280. Polk further went on to say brush would be cut on Dent County Road 2070. Commissioner Larson said he talked with Sheriff Bob Wells and the Next Generation 9-1-1 system in our area is moving forward. He said the governor has set aside money to pay for the project for the first five years and the counties will have to figure out how to pay for it after that. He also said the commission is now working on the budget. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley said March 6th would be the last day to register to vote for the April Municipal Election, and that first day to file for August 6th Primary will be February 27th at 8:00 in the morning at the courthouse. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at the courthouse and the meeting will be open to the public.

Dent County Recorder Cindy Ard at the Dent County Commission meeting Thursday talked about a new website where you can sign up to find out if someone is recording a document or changing a recorded document with your name on it. The website is www.deedwatch.com and once signed up, you would receive an e-mail letting you know if a document is recorded with your name on it. There is no charge for this service. Just go to the website, and in the drop-down box select Dent County, Missouri. In the second box, enter your e-mail that you want the notification to come to. From that point, just follow the simple directions to finish signing up. You could include the name that should be on your deed, or any other form of your name the deed may have been recorded. This service is provided by the Dent County Recorders Office to prevent anyone from being scammed out of their property or having someone attached their name to your deed without your knowledge. If you have questions about this service, contact Cindy Ard at the Dent County Recorders Office at 573-729-2198. You can also e-mail her at dcrecorder07@gmail.com.

A fatality accident occurred in Phelps County Thursday morning at approximately 7:25 on Phelps County Road 1160 about six miles northeast of St. James. According to the highway patrol report, a westbound 2000 Chevrolet Blazer driven by 33-year-old Ryan Curtis of St. James, traveled off the right side of the roadway crossing over Phelps County Road 1210, then overturned into a waterway. Curtis was pronounced dead at the scene by Phelps County Coroner Ernie Coverdale. Curtis’ body was released to the Phelps County Coroner. The report stated that Curtis was not wearing a safety restraint. The Chevrolet was totaled and removed from the scene by Spurgeon’s Towing.

As we enter into the thick of winter, Doxo Insights have released a report called U.S. Utilities Market Size and Household Spending Report for 2023. The report examines how much Americans spend on utility bills such electric, gas, water & sewer, and waste & recycling. Doxo provides direct insight into the household financial health and spending activity by leveraging doxo’s unique aggregate bill pay data which is comprised of actual household bill payment activity pulling information from over eight million paying consumers across over 97% of the US Zip Codes. Data comes from over 120,000 billers in 45 different service categories and enables payments using bank accounts, credit cards and debit cards. From this uniquely broad statistical foundation, Doxo has their findings that show utility bills in Salem average $284 per month which is up 5.5% year over year, but is the same as the average utility bill in the State of Missouri. Nationally, the average utility bill is about $351 per month. For households in Salem, the average cost of living for normal household expenses is $1,356 per month or $16,270 per year for the 10 most common household bills. This makes Salem the #76 most expensive city to reside in Missouri. The cost of living in Salem is 33.7% lower than the national average of $2,046, and 23.2% lower than the state average of $1,766. From the data collected, Salem households spend 39% of their income on household bills. Overall, the information shows Salem bills are $8,287 per year lower than the US average.

The time is now to start thinking about the Salem Community Garden behind the Salem United Methodist Church. If you are interested in a plot, contact Master Gardener Charlie Grimm at 573-368-9902 and he will assign you a plot. You can get more than one plot, but there will be a slight charge for each additional plot. Water and tools are provided, and all you need to bring is your love of gardening and the seeds you want to plant. For more information, call Master Gardener Charlie Grimm or the Dent County Extension at 729-3196.