News – Monday, July 27th, 2026

According to the National Weather Service out of Springfield, an Extreme Heat Warning is in effect now through 7:00 in the morning Tuesday. Afternoon heat index values are estimated to land between 100 to 115 degrees, and then high temperatures in the middle 90s to around 100 degrees. There may be minimal overnight relief with temperatures in the upper 70s to 80s. It’s advised to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day; Drink plenty of water, sports drinks, or natural fruit juices to stay hydrated; Avoid alcohol and beverages that contain caffeine as these tend to be dehydrating; and, if outdoor activity is unavoidable, take plenty of breaks in the shade, or in an air conditioned environment away from the heat. Residents are reminded that the Salem Public Library is a cooling center and is available and accessible to everyone, whether you have a library card or not. Food and drinks are not permitted within the library but a water fountain is available.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has released that the following general highway maintenance and construction work is planned for the Dent County area through Aug. 2nd. Pavement repairs are planned through July 30th on Hwy. DD, FF, and U. The bridge over Dry Creek on Hwy. B remains closed until its completion planned for sometime in August this year. On Hwy. 32, resurfacing continues through Aug. 2nd with crew members planning to work nightly from 7:00 in the evening to 6:00 in the morning within the city limits of Salem. Crew members will be returning to daytime paving east of Salem as the project continues toward Iron County. On both Hwy. 19 and 32, pedestrian facility upgrades continue within city limits of Salem.

Missouri State Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick is launching a petition audit of the City of Salem that will provide a thorough review of the governmental operations. Auditors officially began field work on the performance audit on Monday, July 20. Fitzpatrick said his office takes the efforts and concerns of the Salem residents who signed the petition very seriously and will do their best to provide a detailed look at how their city government is operating while also identifying any areas that can be improved. He went on to state that his office is aware that many of the citizens of Salem have taken issue with their utility bills and these concerns will be looked at closely to make sure the city is in compliance with all relevant state laws. The goal is to make sure the city is operating in a manner that is effective, efficient, and accountable. Petitioners needed 278 signatures to trigger the audit and were able to accumulate 284 signatures that were certified by the Dent County Clerk. The City of Salem was last audited by the State Auditor’s Office in 2010. The report, which was also triggered by a citizen petition, found the city had transferred substantial amounts from the Electric Fund to the General Fund without adequate justification. The audit also found the city had not adequately documented the calculation of utility rate increases. Individuals may provide information confidentially for consideration during the audit of the City of Salem to the State Auditor’s Whistleblower Hotline at 800-347-8597, by email at moaudit@auditor.mo.gov, or by visiting www.auditor.mo.gov/hotline.

It’s that time of year again. School is getting ready to get started! Be sure to be prepared by attending the Back to School Fair at the Salem Community Center @ The Armory on Friday, Aug. 14th from 3:00 to 7:00 in the afternoon. There will be free backpacks and school supplies, games and prizes, free food, free socks and underwear, giveaways, and community resources. Call Donna at South Central Missouri Community Action Agency (SCMCAA) to preregister at 573-729-3500. The Bunker R-III School District has released that New Student Registration will be taking place on Aug. 11th from 10:00 in the morning to 2:00 in the afternoon at the High School Counselor’s Office. Current students may contact Mrs. Barton for any scheduling questions at the phone number 573-689-221 ext. 107.

Dent County Health Center’s community transportation service, CareCab, is here to help you get where you need to go, safely and reliably. CareCab is a local ride service for Dent County residents who need dependable transportation, designed for residents without reliable transportation; older adults and caregivers; students, job seekers, and community members; and anyone in Dent County who needs a convenient way to get around. To book a ride with CareCab, visit dentcountyhealthcenter.org/services/carecab or call 573-729-3106. Riders must be able to get in and out of the vehicle independently or with minimal assistance (such as using a cane or walker.) If you need wheelchair-accessible transportation or assistance with mobility, you are encouraged to contact SMTS for specialized services.