News – Thursday, September 10th, 2026

The City of Salem Board of Aldermen met for its regular meeting Tuesday night at the Old City Hall Auditorium. After approval of the agenda, the board approved the consent agenda, containing Aug. 25th public hearing and regular meeting minutes, municipal court monthly report, and the police department monthly report. Following, the board heard a public comment from Dave Davison, representing a group against data centers advocating for a ban for the city. Another public comment was heard from Lana Grove, who spoke as a representative of citizens concerned about non-disclosure agreements. Grove encouraged board members not to sign NDAs, warning that it would be a conflict of interest and could interfere with the Sunshine Law. Next, the board approved the appointment of the assistant city clerk, who was then sworn into office led by City Clerk Tammy Koller. Under new and miscellaneous business, the board approved the renewal of the annual Laserfiche cloud subscription agreement with Sumner One, enabling staff to scan, store, and preserve documents electronically. Also approved was a contract for uniform rental services from Cintas Corporation No. 2. This is a contract term of 5 years. Cintas provides uniforms which are then routinely laundered, repaired, and replaced, as needed. For bids, the board approved a bid from Flynn Drilling at an anticipated, budgeted cost of $120,000 for Well No. 6, which requires repairs and equipment replacement due to age and conditions of pump, starter, and associated wiring. Finally, the board approved, after a thorough discussion, a change order to the contract with Midstate Pipeline Maintenance LLC. for the wastewater treatment facility phase 2A improvements. In city reports, City Administrator Sally Burbridge introduced to the board several new employees of the city, including Kyle Wofford, water and wastewater superintendent, and Matt Hutzel, wastewater lead man. Mayor Greg Parker presented a proclamation recognizing Missouri Good Neighbor Week, observing Sept. 28th through Oct. 4th. Parker encouraged everyone to connect with their neighbors through a small act of kindness. Alderwoman Catherine Dent reported on the movements of Advocates for Animals, who are continuing to fundraise and complete TNR with Dr. Gabby Moore. The board then adjourned. The next regular meeting of the City of Salem Board of Aldermen will be Tuesday, Sept. 22nd and is open to the public. To watch past meetings, visit the City of Salem Youtube page at youtube.com/@CityofSalemMissouri.

Healthy Dent County will host their 15th Annual “Girls Night Out” today starting at 4:30 and lasting until 7:30. This event is for women and girls age 12 and older ONLY, and there is a $5.00 charge to attend. Ladies will find a variety of vendors as they browse the many aisles enjoying the numerous product selections. Healthy Dent County is also hosting a food drive during this event! Bring in any non perishable canned food for a chance to win a gift card. One ticket per item. The more you donate, the more your chances increase to win the gift card. The food donations will be given to the Sacred Heart Food Pantry and Grace Harbor. Enjoy an evening out with friends, do some shopping, have a little fun, and take time to treat yourself to an evening with the girls!

The Salem Public Library will be hosting an event on Sept. 15th at 10:00 in the morning with author Sivani Ishaya who will be reading her new book “The Golden Hum” in the children’s section of the library. After the reading, an activity is planned for children to participate in. A copy of the book will be available for check-out. This program is intended for children ages 3 to 8 and is free to attend with no library card required.