Local News

This Saturday, National Public Lands Day Activities at Round Spring will be celebrated by working on several trails in the park. Volunteering on National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to spend time outside with family and friends, connect with neighbors, and enjoy the benefits that come with the satisfaction of giving back. Join us at the Round Spring Ranger Station at 10 that to work on trail projects in the park. Bring a lunch and enjoy the day outdoors. Volunteers at National Public Land Day will receive a “fee-free” coupon, good for one year, for free one-day entrance into a federal recreation site. In addition, the Ozark Riverways Foundation will sponsor a National Public Land Day celebration full of fun, food, and a free concert at Echo Bluff State Park. Food and fun will be 4:00 until 6:00 that afternoon at the picnic area near the amphitheater, followed by the free concert featuring singer/songwriter Collin Nash at 7 p.m. For more information, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

Fall is a great time to try the Current River Challenge hike/float adventure. This self-guided activity includes three “legs” to complete: a 4-mile hike from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park, a 4-mile hike from Echo Bluff to Current River State Park, and a 4-mile float from Current River State Park to Round Spring. Hikers can pick up an informational map brochure at any of the three park sites. At the conclusion of each “leg” participants will stamp their map at designated kiosks. After completion of all three legs, participants can present their stamped map at the Round Spring Ranger Station to receive an award recognizing the accomplishment. The Current River Challenge is a self-guided activity that can be completed at your own pace, in any order and timeframe desired. It can be completed in one day or over multiple days. Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees meeting September 16th continued following the closed session. Health Center Administrator Zach Moser discussed his findings relative to the Emergency Rural Health Care Grant and presented proposals for the usage of the funds. Ideas presented included development of a mobile vaccination unit, which would probably be a van, purchase and renovation of additional property, and renovation of current property. The Board passed a motion approving Moser to contact MRPC to assist with the application process since they are due in October and to move forward with the mobile vaccination unit and renovations/improvements to the current building. Moser reported that he learned of a federal program that would cover the administration cost for the Health Center for COVID vaccines and testing. The Board approved the purchase of a Square register for point of sale and to switch from Court Money to Square as the credit card processor. Zach reported that a statewide standing order for Regeneron Monoclonal Antibodies for COVID-19 has been approved and that Dr. Prince has signed off on the Health Center providing the service. The limiting factor conduct the treatment is space and currently no space is available. The Board considered the 1-year lease of 1006 E. Scenic Rivers Boulevard, which had expired at the end of August. The Board voted to terminate the lease and expressed their appreciation of the lessees. It was noted that the future plans when the building was purchased was to expand into that portion of the building. Health Center expenses for August were approved and the next regular Board meeting was set for October 21st.

Step back in time at the Dent County Museum Sunday afternoon from 1:00 until 4:00 at 400 North Pershing in Salem. You are invited to come view the donated items that tell the story of Dent County. There will be a special event at 1:00 as a tree is dedicated to former board member James Coffman. Stop by for cookies and lemonade as the museum celebrates the last opening of the season.

Ozark National Scenic Riverways has a variety of great trails for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore trails independently or can participate in several ranger-led hiking events planned throughout the fall. Social distancing will be encouraged during ranger-led hikes. For hikes where shuttles are offered, masks will be required for visitors on the shuttles. On Saturday, September 25th, beginning at 10 that morning a 4.3-mile hike will explore three trail loops south of Big Spring, where you’ll experience beautiful scenery while learning about the cultural history of the original Big Spring State Park. Meet at the Chubb Hollow pavilion, just south of the Big Spring Lodge and Cabins on State Route Z. Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

An accident happened in Washington County at 6:05 Wednesday evening on Highway 185 about a quarter of a mile south of Goose Creek Road. According to the highway patrol report, a 2002 Hyundai driven by 39-year-old Thomas Blake of Rolla, traveled off the right side of the road edge and then returned to the roadway where Blake overcorrected. The Hyundai then traveled back off the right side of the right road edge and overturned. Blake suffered moderate injuries and was taken by ambulance to the Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. The Hyundai was totaled and was removed by Chuck’s Towing from the scene.

The Dent County Health Center Board of Trustees met for their regular meeting Thursday, September 16th at the Health Center. After approval of the minutes for the August 19th regular meeting, Dent County Health Center Administrator Zach Moser updated the Board on the current COVID status in Dent County. To date, there are 1,597 confirmed cases and 382 probable cases that have been investigated. As of Thursday’s meeting, there were 11 people hospitalized, 47 confirmed cases and 49 probable cases. Fifty-three COVID related deaths have been confirmed. As of the meeting date, 29.6% of Dent County residents have received their first dose of vaccine and 25.2% have completed the series according to the Missouri Department of Health and Social Services. The seven-day positivity rate is at 15.0%. Moser reminds residents that the COVID vaccine is available at the Health Center, Moser Pharmacy, Sinks Pharmacy, Vandivort Drug and Walmart Pharmacy. Moser reported that on September 2nd, a document clarifying Dent County’s rules for isolation and quarantine was published to assist the schools in determining the isolation and quarantine periods. Moser reported that an AED was purchased for emergencies that may occur in the Health Center building or on the parking lot. Expiring MCH funds were used to make the purchase. The Board approved utilizing grant funds for the replacement of the Health Center roof by Williams American Construction, Inc., in the amount of $28,275, replace the problem front door for $3,373, and for an awareness campaign in the Salem News and online in the amount of $3,886. In new business, Assistant Administrator Roma Jones reported new food establishments that have been inspected include Master’s Donuts, Whispering Pines Kitchen, El Toro Food Truck, Bigos on Wheels, Dominos, and Custard by C. Sue for compliance. She noted that Chapter 8 of the current food code gives the local agency the power to shut establishments down who aren’t compliant. There is paperwork that must be submitted to Jones 30 days prior to opening so she can complete and inspection. Jones said that one sewer complaint was investigated in August. Moser updated the Board on Communicable Diseases noting that in August there were 438 new cases of COVID-19 investigated, there were four cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and one case of Hepatitis A reported. He also said that there were 102 lab draws and 177 COVID tests conducted. As of the meeting date, 157 COVID tests had been conducted in September. Moser also said there were 258 appointments for COVID-19 vaccines in August and 168 for other vaccines, such as 8th grade and kindergarten shots. The Health Center had 731 appointments scheduled in August. Moser gave an update on the Increasing Adult Covid-19 Immunization Capacity contract, which includes an Electronic Health Record System and an Awareness Campaign. Moser is to have more information for the October Board Meeting. He reported on the Enhancing Laboratory Capacity CARES grant which is on track and continues to help pay for COVID-testing and contract tracing. Zach reported that the Maternal-Child Health contract is nearing its end and due to COVID-19, the Health Center has had difficulty completing obligations of the contract, which resulted in about $6,000 left unbilled in this contract. He also said that WIC has had a slow start for the year, but the Health Center is now on track with the program. The Sho-Me-Healthy-Woman program has appointment openings for September 27th and women wanting to schedule an appointment should call the Health Center office at (573) 729-3106. The Board then voted to go into closed session to discuss personnel.

A two-vehicle accident happened Monday afternoon at 4:30 in Crawford County on Highway 19 just north of The Rafting Company. The highway patrol report states that a 2008 Chevrolet Impala being driven by 53-year-old Kimberly Volner of Doolittle was attempting to pass another vehicle and failed to observe a 2014 Dodge Ram being driven by 52-year-old Jody Skaggs of Cuba in the oncoming lane. The Impala struck the Dodge head-on. Volner suffered minor injuries and was taken by North Crawford County Ambulance to Missouri Baptist Hospital in Sullivan. Two occupants of the Dodge, 50-year-old Lillie Ferges of Steelville suffered moderate injuries, and 23-year-old Heather Ferges of Cuba received minor injuries. Both were taken by Steelville Ambulance service to Missouri Baptist in Sullivan. The report went on to state that all involved were wearing seat restraints. The Impala was totaled while the Dodge had extensive damage. Both were removed by Miles and Sons Towing.

The Dent County Commissioners met Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. At the meeting, District 1 Commissioner Wes Mobray said workers will be pouring the concrete bridge floor and sides on Dent County Road 4210 this week, weather permitting. He also said he was almost finished with his Local Public Agency training for the MoDOT FLAP project and that it is still moving forward. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson was not in attendance, so Travis Turner from District 2 gave the report. He said brush was being cut on county roads 3250 and 3260, and maintenance work was being done on trucks #69 and 75, and workers are also working on the tailgate for truck #116. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he and Commissioner Mobray attended the Regional Economic Development meeting held on Tuesday, September 14th at Echo Bluff State Park. Skiles said it was very good meeting with over 45 people attending from numerous counties as well as Senator Blunt’s office and other officials to discuss the needs of the region, and talk about how they may be able to work together to help one another. Skiles also said he attended the Salem Area Community Betterment Association meeting last week and they will be having a “Trivia Night” on Saturday, October 23rd at the Farmers Market Pavilion starting at 5:30. Skiles stated Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge invited him to a meeting with Steelville Telephone Exchange Representative Kent Sherrow. Sherrow indicated they are looking to expand fiber optics into Dent County and Salem to provide additional high-speed Internet services. To find out how interested people are in having this service, Skiles said Steelville Telephone Exchange has targeted individuals that have slow or no Internet services to receive a survey in the mail with a QR Code that they can access through their smart phone. The response they receive will help them determine if there is enough interest from the people for the project to move forward. Dent County Health Center Director Zach Moser came by to visit with the commissioners. Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams last week attended the Missouri County Treasurer’s Association Conference at Old Kinderhook in Camdenton. Williams was elected president of the association and will serve in 2022 and 2023. The next meeting of the commission will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The University of Missouri will be conducting a Home Food Preservation class the evening of Thursday, September 23rd from 6:00 until 8:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. The class entitled Salsa, is a class that focuses on safe and correct food preservation methods in the home setting. Whether you are new to canning, or you just need a refresher on something you’ve been doing for years, University of Missouri Extension’s Food Preservation Series can help you preserve your produce safely and efficiently. Each participant will take part in hands on training in preparing and canning salsa! Due to the 2-hour time period of the class, the canned salsa produced in class will not be shelf stable. Home canned products must rest undisturbed for 12-24 hours after canning. The products of this class should be refrigerated and eaten within 7 days because they will be transported following canning. Don’t worry they will be tasty! The cost of the class is $25 and to register contact Rachel Buenemann online at rachelbuenemann@missouri.edu or call (573) 458-6260.

The Creative Arts Center in Salem will be offering a beginner’s oil painting class. The class will be one day per week for four weeks beginning Thursday, September 23rd then on September 30th and October 7th and 15th. Classes are being held from 9 until noon. The class will be taught by professional artist Tana Kettner. Necessary supplies will be provided. You will learn about color theory, painting techniques and other skills. No previous experience is necessary. The cost is $120 for all 4 session or $35 per 3-hour session. For questions or to register you may email salemartscouncil@outlook.com.

The City of Salem Utility Committee will be meeting Thursday evening at 6:00 at the Salem Community Center@The Armory. The meeting was called by the committee chairman, Shawn Bolerjack. The Utility Committee will be updated on utility billing, hear an update on the audit of the utility meter and billing project, hear an update on the utility bills layout, discuss the fiscal year 2021-2022 Utility and Street Department projects update, and receive an update on the Exceleron pre-paid project. The meeting will then be adjourned. The Utility Committee meeting is open to the public.

An accident happened at 12:15 Sunday afternoon in Laclede County at the intersection of Wildwood Drive and Cedar Bluff Road that left four individuals with injuries. According to the highway patrol report, a Kawasaki 400 ES four-wheeler driven northbound by a 17-year-old juvenile of Salem failed to negotiate a curve at the intersection. The Kawasaki crossed the roadway and impacted the ground, ejecting the girl driving the Kawasaki as well as the passengers. Suffering serious injuries in the accident were three passengers: 18-year-old Hailey Conway of Salem, a 15-year-old female from Falcon, Missouri, and a nine-year-old female from Falcon. Also suffering moderate injuries was the 17-year-old female juvenile driver from Salem. Everyone injured in the accident was taken by a private conveyance to the Mercy Hospital in Lebanon. The Kawasaki sustained only minor damage and was removed from the scene by the owner.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education met last Thursday evening at the high school library. The board heard a report from Middle School ELA teachers Tina McKee and Abrie Enloe on the Middle School 40 book challenge that their students are participating in this year. The board also heard from Chris Salzman from ESP on potential building projects. The board approved negotiating a contract with ESP for a variety of facility improvements, plus they also hired ESP to create a final design for the tin gym remodel and expansion as well as the locker room remodeling project. In the Superintendent’s report, Dr. Lynne Reed stated Brad Wegman from L.J. Hart will be invited to the October Board meeting to discuss a potential bond issue for construction of a new elementary school. She also discussed former Salem football Coach Bill Schuchardt’s induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame and provided an update on the school’s virtual program. The building principals gave their reports and enrollment at the elementary school is 243, the upper elementary has 327 students, the middle school has 259 students, and the high school has right at 600 students. It was reported the high school has 47 students that are earning 351 dual credit hours. The board approved the bus routes presented before approving the Special Education Compliance Plan. The board then changed policy SRCSP that includes a mask mandate at the Salem R-80 schools for all staff pre-kindergarten through the 12th grade, all students in the 6th through the 12th grade, and that strict cohort classes be held at the Upper Elementary and William Lynch Elementary school. This was to go into effect today. The board approved revising the assistant superintendent’s job description and approved board policy GBDBDA. The board discussed and approved renaming the road behind the middle school and high school in honor of retired Salem R-80 Transportation Director Jim McDaniels. After closed session where the board approved raising the base pay for assistant kitchen managers and kitchen managers, the board returned to open session where they agreed to change the time of the next regular meeting to 5:00 with a discipline hearing to follow the meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

An accident occurred Friday morning at 11:10 in Dent County on Route ZZ about two miles west of Jadwin. According to the highway patrol report, a 2000 Kawasaki KLR driven by 58-year-old Judy Ivery of Festus, was traveling westbound and struck a deer. Ivery suffered moderate injuries and was flown by Arch Air to Mercy St. Louis. The Kawasaki sustained minor damages and was towed by private vehicle.

An accident occurred Friday morning at 8:29 in Phelps County on County Road 6120 about 971 feet from Highway 63. According to the highway patrol report, a bicycle being rode by 63-year-old John Boley of Rolla was travelling westbound in the eastbound lane. A 2004 Taurus driven by 20-year-old Joseph Raymond of Edgar Springs was traveling eastbound and struck the bicycle. Boley suffered serious injuries and was flown from Phelps Health to University of Columbia. The bicycle was totaled and taken to family members residence. The Ford sustained moderate damage and was driven from the scene.

Dent County Prosecutor Andrew Curley reported on three cases heard in Dent County on Friday, September 10th, in front of Judge Megan Seay. In the first case heard that day, Rebecca Hall of Salem pled guilty to the possession of fentanyl and benzodiazapam while on felony probation. Hall was sentenced to serve seven years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the prosecutor. In another case, Todd Harget of Licking pled guilty to the distribution of methamphetamine. Harget is a prior and persistent felony offender and was sentenced to serve 12 years in the Department of Corrections as requested by the state. In the final case heard last Friday, Heather Parker of Salem pled guilty to the possession of fentanyl and felony stealing. Judge Seay sentenced her to serve seven years in the Missouri Department of Corrections as requested by Prosecutor Curley.

The Salem Police Department has released their report for the month of August. They served 16 summonses to appear in court, gave out 40 warning tickets, and seven traffic tickets, plus they also served 15 fugitive warrants and two city warrants. The department investigated ten traffic accidents, had 20 ambulance assists, wrote 12 property damage reports, eight stealing reports, and two resisting or interfering with an arrest reports. The department investigated seven driving while having a license revoked or suspended reports, wrote a missing person report, had one unlawful use of a firearm or weapon charge, conducted three death investigations, had four possession of a controlled substance charges, two possession of drug paraphernalia charges, as well as three domestic violence reports. The department also investigated four trespassing reports, two reports of tampering, investigated three intoxicated pedestrians, responded to six assaults or fights and responded to 43 animal calls. The Salem Police Department conducted 56 follow up investigations and responded to two shots fired. The police department performed 22 well-being checks, responded to three suicidal person calls, investigated ten suspicious vehicles and 11 suspicious subjects, and investigated one sexual offense. The department drove 7,911 miles during the month and served 4 hours as court bailiff. The department had 896 calls for service and had 49 walk-ins to the station. There were 19 males and 13 females arrested during the month of August.

A three-vehicle accident happened Thursday afternoon just after 12:30 in Phelps County on Highway 63 at Phelps County Road 2110. According to the highway patrol report, a 2008 Honda Odessey being driven by 62-year-old Tammy Nail of Rolla, was traveling north and had stopped to make a left turn. At that time, a 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan being driven by 73-year-old William Bleckman of Rolla had also stopped and was behind the Honda. The report says a 2007 Sterling 9000 being driven by 43-year-old Zebulon Cramer of Belle was also traveling north and struck the rear of the Caravan. The Dodge then traveled off the right side of the roadway. The Sterling traveled off the right side of the roadway and overturned. A passenger in the Dodge Caravan, 69-year-old Deborah Bleckman of Rolla was transported by Phelps Health Ambulance to Phelps Health Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. All involved in the accident were wearing safety restraints at the time of the accident. The Honda had only minor damage and was driven from the scene. The Sterling and Dodge Caravan were both totaled. The Dodge was towed from the scene by Ron Dishman Towing and the Sterling was removed by Big Boys Towing.

The Taste of The Arts Expo 2021 is coming up tomorrow from 3:00 until 7:00 at The Creative Arts Center behind the ONCRC, at 202 South Main in Salem. Taste of The Arts will be a small carnival style family fun day complete with many small art activities for both kids and adults alike. There will be a sidewalk chalk contest, a children’s table with art activities, screen printing, wheat weaving, quilting, pottery, painting, air brushing, concessions and vendors. For more information, contact Danielle Norris at 573-247-5306 or Tana Kettner at 573-247-0651.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways has a variety of great trails for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can explore trails independently or can participate in several ranger-led hiking events planned throughout the fall. Social distancing will be encouraged during ranger-led hikes. For hikes where shuttles are offered, masks will be required for visitors on the shuttles. The fall hiking season will kick off with activities in the Round Spring area Saturday, September 18th, and continue with special activities nearly every weekend through early November. All activities and events are free of charge and pre-registration is not required. Now is the time to start planning fall and winter hiking adventures. Plan accordingly when hiking or participating in any outdoor recreational activity. Hikers should take weather conditions into consideration and be prepared during all seasons. Drinking water, rain gear, map, snacks, flashlight, sturdy hiking shoes, clothing appropriate for the weather and terrain, and emergency campfire supplies are recommended. Always remember to inform someone of your plans. The September 18th hike will be from Round Spring to Echo Bluff State Park. Visitors will complete the first leg of the Current River Challenge hike and float adventure and learn about other trail opportunities throughout the park. This 4.25- mile hike begins at 10 in the morning at the Round Spring pavilion parking lot. At the conclusion of the hike the Ozark Riverways Foundation, the official Friends Group for Ozark National Scenic Riverways, will host a celebration for hikers at Echo Bluff State Park with food, refreshment, and games. A shuttle back to Round Spring will also be provided by Ozark Riverways Foundation. Trails are a major attraction for visitors to the area. Many come to float and paddle on the river trails. Horse enthusiasts travel from great distances to participate in area trail rides. The Ozark Trail passes through the park and local communities. Volunteer groups attract hundreds of people to build and maintain trails. Trails are an important part of the local heritage and of the recreational opportunities available in the Ozarks today. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy all that the area trails have to offer. For more information about any of the hikes, contact Skyler Bockman at (573) 323-8093 or visit the park’s website at www.nps.gov/ozar.

The Salem Area Arts Council is seeking donations for the “Taste of the Arts” expo that will be held Saturday at the Creative Arts Center behind the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center at 202 South Main Street to be used for prizes and giveaways. Donations may be in the form of a percentage off of a meal, a free meal, trinkets or anything that you have to spare. Monetary donations are accepted as well. Every time someone wins a certificate your business will be announced and thanked for your donation. If you would be willing to donate any items or discount coupons, or cash, please contact President Danielle Norris at 573-247-5306 or Tana Kettner at 573-247-0651.

The Salem R-80 Board of Education will be meeting this evening at 6:00 in the High School Library. After the consent agenda, the Board will be updated on the Middle School ELA – 40 Book Challenge and hear an update on capital projects from ESP. Superintendent Dr. Lynne Reed will report on a variety of issues followed by principals’ reports, as well as the athletics and facilities report. In new business, the board will approve the bus routes and Special Education Compliance Plan. The Board will also consider changes to policy SRCSP, approve revised assistant superintendent job description and approve revised policy GDBDA. The Board will then go into closed session. The regular meeting of the Salem R-80 Board of Education this evening is open to the public.

Representatives from Missouri State Parks invite the public to attend an informational meeting at Missouri Mines State Historic Site on Saturday, September 18th. The meeting will begin at 4:00 in the afternoon at the museum. The public is invited to share comments and ask questions about the site and its operations. Representatives from the park will be present to provide information and to answer questions. Input from the public is important to Missouri State Parks. These informational meetings, which are being held in all state parks and historic sites, help create two-way communication with the public. The meetings give staff the opportunity to let people know the current status and future plans for the park or historic site, and they offer visitors the opportunity to comment on the facilities. The public is strongly encouraged to follow social-distancing guidelines and be proactive in protecting themselves and others. Missouri Mines State Historic Site is located at 4000 State Highway 32, Park Hills, in southeast Missouri. For more information about the meeting, call the site at 573-431-6226. 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 Salem Eagles will be hosting a custom and classic car show this Saturday at 5111 West Highway 32 starting at noon and until lasting until who knows! If you have a classic car, truck, bike or big rig, come on out! There will be food, beverages and fun, and everyone is invited to come on out and enjoy!

The Salem Board of Aldermen held a regular meeting Tuesday at the City Hall Auditorium. The board heard from Tammy Walker, Brian Brooks and Terris Cates from Heartland Metal Finishing requesting clarification regarding the key elements of the Salem Pretreatment Program and how it could affect a potential purchaser of the closed business. Jeff Meadows with Archer Elgin helped clarify the data collection procedures to determine other industrial users and the amount of pollutants being discharged within the city limits. This process should be completed by year end with public meetings being held to allow for public input. The board approved the purchase of ultra-violet bulbs for the Wastewater Treatment Facility at a cost of $19,386.65. Resolution No. 27-2021 authorizing the Mayor to execute an agreement between the city and the Meramec Regional Planning Commission to provide technical assistance for the American Rescue Plan Act Administration management was approved as well as Bill No. 3489 which created an ordinance to establish a procedure to disclose potential conflicts of interest for certain municipal office holders. Also approved was Bill No. 3490, an ordinance establishing rates for electric service as a result of supplier price increases and the February 2021 weather event. Resolution No. 28-2021 a resolution authorizing the mayor to execute an employment agreement between the city and Ray Walden was approved with Alderman Kevin James reading a statement explaining how the new employment contract negotiated with City Administrator Walden has performance expectations. Mayor Kim Steelman thanked Walden for his part in the recent goals attained by the city and high standards being set. She commended him for being a very dedicated employee. Bill No. 3491, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to execute a contract change order between the city and Nexgrid for electric AMI meters, was approved. Walden gave the City Administrators report and included a list of past, current and future projects that the city is working on. The board approved rescheduling the September 28th meeting to Thursday, September 30th at 6 PM, due to staff and aldermen attending a conference. Jeff Meadows with Archer Elgin gave several project updates within the city including the Wastewater Treatment Plant, the LWCF Soccer Field grant, the Route J and Highway 72 sewer extension and the TAP grant downtown revitalization grant. Mayor Steelman explained that future meetings will include a verbal report from the mayor, aldermen, city administrator, public works director, and the economic development director. These entities have always provided written reports to the alderman, but she wanted more transparency so these reports will be shared with the public verbally. Steelman will establish office hours at the City Administration building two days per week to allow for more citizen input. New automation software is being reviewed to allow for permits, license, etc to be submitted online. Citizens were recently asked to serve on boards and committees with a great response. A complete list of new committee members was distributed and approved. Due to state mandates only citizens within the city limits can serve on these committees, but she is looking to implement some county/city committees. Public Works Director Mark Nash reported there were 88 electric disconnects this month, with 66 being paid, there are currently only 9 that have not paid. They have installed a total of 2,695 electric meters and 2,228 water meters. They are working on rerouting storm water run-off behind the new Domino’s restaurant. The Aldermen then each gave a report. The board approved appointing Tammy Koller to attend the Lagers annual meeting as the employer representative. The City-wide Yard Sale is set for October 2nd and the fall clean-up will be held the week of October 11-15. The board then went into closed session.

An accident happened in St. Louis County on Interstate 270 south of Interstate 44 at 8:50 Tuesday morning that took the life of a Rolla man. According to the highway patrol report, a 2019 Freightliner Cascadia driven northbound by 48-year-old Miguel Hertog of Palmetto, Florida, was slowing for traffic when a 2019 Hino Conventional driven northbound by 34-year-old Justin Reeves of Rolla, failed to stop and the front of the Hino struck the rear tow unit of the Freightliner. Reeves was pronounced dead at the scene by the Fenton Fire and EMS personnel and his body was taken to the St. Louis County Morgue by Lonning’s Mortuary Service. Hertog suffered minor injuries and was taken to the Mercy Hospital in St. Louis by the Fenton EMS. The Hino Conventional was totaled while the Freightliner itself suffered no damage, but the tow unit was totaled. The vehicles were removed from the scene by Miners Towing. Both drivers were wearing their seat restraints at the time of the accident.

The Dent County Commissioners met for their regular meeting Monday morning at the Dent County Courthouse. At the meeting, Dent County Treasurer Denita Williams reported to the commission the amount of sales tax funds received by the state this month. For the General Revenue Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund, the county received $99,016.85 for each fund and that is down $13,445.50 from last year’s figure of $112,462.35. For the Road and Bridge Fund, the county received $47,551.25 and that is down $6,853.13 from last year’s receipt of $54,404.38. The Jail Trust Fund and Operating Funds each received $95,107.93 and that was down $13,704.05 from the 2020 figure of $108,811.98. Williams said she hadn’t heard back from the Department of Revenue when she asked them why the sales tax for General Revenue and the LEST Fund from July was much higher than for the jail funds and the Road and Bridge Fund. In the road report, 1st District Commissioner Wes Mobray stated grading was going to be done on Dent County Road 5610 and that materials would be added to county road 4210 where the low water bridge work is being done. Mobray went on to say the bridge would be closed another three weeks before it will be open to traffic. District 2 Commissioner Gary Larson reported materials would be added and grading done on Dent County Road 3350 while brush would be cut on county road 3305. He said major service was being done on grader #31 and the #9 tractor used for brush cutting was having new runners and blades installed. Presiding Commissioner Darrell Skiles said he attended the MRPC External Relations Committee meeting via phone conference. He wanted to remind everyone that the MRPC Annual Volunteer Awards Dinner would be held on October 21st at State Technical College of Missouri at Linn. He said he nominated Joe Brand for all the volunteer work he has done to receive an award. He also said at the regular MRPC meeting that they will have a meeting with Attorney Travis Elliott around the end of the month to discuss what can be done with the ARPA funds the county has received. Skiles indicated he would be at the MRPC offices today along with the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District Executive Board to review and grade the applications for grants for recycling and the reduction of waste in landfills. He will also attend the Economic Development meeting at Echo Bluff tonight at 6:00, which was organized by Salem and Dent County Economic Development Director Sally Burbridge. Dent County Clerk Angie Curley reported on the annual County Clerk Election Authority meeting held last week. This meeting qualifies for the 20 hours of mandatory requirements for her position as county clerk. She was also elected chairman of the South-Central County Clerk’s Region that covers 13 counties. The next meeting of the Dent County Commissioners will be Monday morning at 9:00 at the courthouse and the meeting is open to the public.

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be meeting tonight at 6:00 at the City Hall Council Chambers at 200 North Washington. At the meeting, the aldermen will hear from the Heartland Metal Finishing Management Team as they want to discuss the pretreatment program key elements along with effluent limits, sampling location and more. Following the consent agenda, the board will hear bids for ultra-violet lights for the Waste Water Treatment Facility. They will then discuss Bill #3489 which would create an ordinance to establish a procedure to dispose of potential conflicts of interest for certain municipal officials, discuss Resolution #27-2021 which is a resolution to execute an agreement between the City of Salem and the Meramec Regional Planning Commission for technical assistance on floodplain management, discuss Bill #3490 that would create an ordinance to establish rates for electric services that would offset the impact of the financial impact of the February 2021 weather event, discuss Resolution #28-2021 authorizing the mayor to execute an employment agreement between the City of Salem and Ray Walden, and discuss an ordinance to authorize the mayor to execute a contract change order between the City of Salem and Nexgrid for electric AMI meters. In the reports of city officials, boards and committees, the alderman will hear the report from City Administrator Ray Walden, Mayor Kim Steelman and Public Works Director Mark Nash. The board will also discuss the LAGERS annual meeting where the board will be appointing an employer delegate to attend the meeting. The board will approve the Fall Clean-up Week will be designated October 11th through the 15th and approve any committee appointments that are made. The board will then go into closed session. The Salem Board of Aldermen meeting tonight will begin at 6:00 and is open to the public.

The Salem Area Arts Council will host a “Taste of the Arts” Expo at the Creative Arts Center this Saturday from 3:00 until 7:00. It will be a small carnival style family fun day complete with small art activities for young and old. There will be live music with Chris Blood and Michael Conners, a sidewalk chalk contest, a children’s table with art activities, screen printing, wheat weaving, quilting, pottery, painting, air brushing concessions and vendors. For more information, contact Danielle Norris at 573-247-5306 or Tana Kettner at 573-247-0651.

The Dent County Fire Protection District board of directors met last Thursday night at 6:00. After the roll call and approval of the consent agenda, the minutes from the August meeting were reviewed and approved as presented. Joe Weber from Weber and Associates was present to discuss the policy and procedures manual and answer any questions from the board. The manual will be reviewed and discussed again at the October meeting. Bills were approved with a balance of 149,180.64 as of August 31st. During the budget review, the board discussed changing the budget back to a line-item budget for the 2022 year and breaking down the budget in more detail. It was recommended that the board put together a finance committee to review and set up a new long-term plan for the department. The board agreed and the committee will be comprised of fire department officers and board members. Dave Greenshields will serve as the board member for the committee. An officer from the department will be assigned at the next officers’ meeting. Treasurer Dave Wells asked the board to close one of the bank accounts that was set up during the fire station renovation as it was no longer being used and has gone dormant. The board agreed but asked Chief Nash to check with the auditor and the USDA to make sure this could be done. Chief Nash discussed with the board about having an audit performed for the department and DCERA. Normally an audit is performed every three years, but due to the construction Chief Nash felt it necessary to have an audit performed to ensure that all finances are being handled correctly. The board agreed and asked for him to set it up. The board reviewed the other budget items before reviewing the calendar. On Thursday, September 16th, the department will be in training and the next night, will be at the Salem High School Football game. Air Evac will be holding training at the department on September 21st and 22nd and again on the 28th and 29th. There was a total of 26 calls during the month of August with a total of 214 calls year to date. It was reported the insurance money has finally come in for Engine 85 where a deer strike damaged the truck. The department is still trying to find someone to repair the truck as it will have to be a company that can repair fire engine trucks. The security cameras at the fire station have been installed and are in operation and the new fire software conversion is still ongoing. In new business, Chief Nash reported computers and gun lockers have been installed in six trucks and are operational for the new emergency reporting software. Also, Panasonic met with the chief to discuss new computers for all the trucks in the future. Panasonic is working with the department to acquire grant money to fund this project. Chief Nash reported to the board that several trucks are having problems including electrical problems on Truck 80, the tele-squirt nozzle and has a check engine light keeps coming on in Ladder Truck #81, and the hose net on the back needs to be repaired or replaced, Engine 82 has had a backup camera installed and Engine 83 has an intake that needs to be repaired or replaced. Several of the trucks are already scheduled for repair or have had the repair parts ordered. In the building report, it was noted that the upstairs floor and equipment room work is still in progress and that the department is working with Rommel Lock and Alarm on a door lock system. The date was set for the next meeting which will be Tuesday, October 5th at 6:00 at the firehouse and will be open to the public. The fire board then went into closed session.