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Municipal Election Day in the Lake Area is April 6th, and candidates in Osage Beach are identified.
Incumbents Aldermen Bob O’Steen, Tyler Becker and Richard Ross are running for re-election.
The deadline for candidate filing has passed and you’ll be able to vote at one of two locations depending on the county you live in.
In Camden County it’ll be Church of Osage Hills on Osage Beach Parkway.
In Miller County, votes for Ward I will be taken at Faithbridge United Methodist Church on Hwy 42.
Today is the annual State of the State address.
Governor Mike Parson will be giving the address from the House Chambers at 3PM this afternoon.
The event will be live streamed on the Governor’s Facebook page as well as our KRMS News Facebook page.
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley is striking back at those who are seeking an ethics investigation into his objection to the Electoral College results.
Hawley is filing a counter-complaint against seven Senate Democrats involved in this ethics investigation.
Last week Democrats asked the Senate Ethics Committee to investigate actions by Hawley and Texas Senator Ted Cruz, to “fully understand their role” in the so-called insurrection at the Capitol by supporters of then President Donald Trump.
Hawley says this action is an “Historic abuse of the Senate ethics process” and he wants the committee to take any disciplinary action deemed appropriate.
More details are expected soon after an inspection on the new Camden County Commission office building.
Camdenton City Administrator Jeff Hooker tells KRMS News the inspection happened Tuesday morning.
Hooker says when the report is finished he’ll make sure Commissioners Greg Hasty, Don Williams and James Gohagan have each had time to review it before releasing details publicly.
Photos inside the building later posted online triggered comments from some people in the Lake Area via social media.
A confrontation between Gohagan and several county maintenance workers followed.
Two of those workers are facing charges.
SKM_458e21012201350
Laclede County is on the hunt for a new Public Administrator, that after newly sworn-in Administrator Zane McCaslin resigns abruptly.
Officials say McCaslin had only been on the job since January 1st and submitted a letter of resignation that was deemed “Confidential” citing health issues.
An emergency meeting was held on Tuesday to determine how to fill the vacancy.
McCaslin was elected to the position in August.
Right now, mayors and aldermen in Lake Ozark serve two-year terms, but that could change in April when voters decide on extending those terms to four years.
But Mayor Gerry Murawski tells KRMS News two years might not be enough time, especially for new Aldermen.
Murawski has filed to run again for Mayor and municipal elections will be happening in August.
Photo by steve woods on Unsplash
Camden County Commissioners have passed an ordinance they say will protect the Second Amendment to the US Constitution.
First District Commissioner James Gohagan.
He tells KRMS News the ordinance was passed due to local concerns about possible overreach at the Federal level over the right to bear arms.
Gohagan also says the Commission’s seeking more input on another resolution that would bring other protections.
Gohagan says more discussions will be happening Thursday, we’ll keep you caught up with the details here on KRMS.
ORDINANCE SAPA/SECOND AMENDEMNT/GUN SANCTUARY
All federal acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations, whether past, present, or future, which infringe on the people’s right to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 23 of the Missouri Constitution shall be invalid in this county, shall not be recognized by this county, are specifically rejected by this county, and shall be considered null and void and of no effect in this county.
(2) Such federal acts, laws, orders, rules, and regulations include, but are not limited to:
(a) The provisions of the federal Gun Control Act of 1934;
(b) The provisions of the federal Gun Control Act of 1968;
(c) Any tax, levy, fee, or stamp imposed on firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition not common to all other goods and services which could have a chilling effect on the purchase or ownership of those items by law-abiding citizens;
(d) Any registering or tracking of firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition which could have a chilling effect on the purchase or ownership of those items by law-abiding citizens;
(e) Any registering or tracking of the owners of firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition which could have a chilling effect on the purchase or ownership of those items by law-abiding citizens;
(f) Any act forbidding the possession, ownership, or use or transfer of any type of firearm, firearm accessory, or ammunition by law-abiding citizens;
(g) Any act ordering the confiscation of firearms, firearm accessories, or ammunition from law-abiding citizens
Mayor McNabb presents certificate to Tish Sims
There are now numerous people signed up to run for Mayor in the city of Camdenton.
According to the city clerk, Mayor John McNabb will face challengers Daniel Ousley, Steve Eden, Matt Grey and Kristopher Keeth.
At this time all 3 Alderman’s up for re-election face no challengers, nor does the position for the Special Road District “R” seat.
MAYOR – Two Year Term
*John D. McNabb
Daniel Ousley
Steve Eden
Matt Gray
Kristopher Keeth
ALDERMAN WARD I – Two Year Term
*Eric Faes
ALDERMAN WARD II – Two Year Term
*Brenda Weir
ALDERMAN WARD III – Two Year Term
*Mark B. Anderson
SPECIAL ROAD DISTRICT “R” – Three Year Term
*William O Jeffries
*Indicates incumbent
The Camdenton board of alderman are set to meet tonight (Tuesday) for their regular session.
Items on their agenda include accepting a deed for a Habitat for Humanity property on Hidden Creek, A lease agreement, numerous reports and a closed session at the end of the meeting.
It starts at 6PM at city hall and it will be open to the public as well as live streamed on Facebook.
Camdenton County Commissioners might be talking about a proposed ordinance that could prevent the federal government from infringing on several freedoms.
First District Commissioner James Gohagan tells KRMS News the goal would be to prevent the Fed from shutting down Camden County.
Gohagan says the ordinance was written after mandatory shutdowns around Missouri and the United States in 2020.
The agenda for Tuesday morning’s commission meeting shows the term ‘proposed ordinance’ as part of the discussion.
Other items on the Agenda include a discussion on the Sheriff’s Security systems and bids, HR personnel matters, Tax and Budget Abatements as well as an inspection of the Commission Offices.
The meeting starts at 10AM and is open to the public.
AGENDA(14)
If you live in Lake Ozark, you might be deciding between four-year terms or two-year terms for elected officials.
The Board of Aldermen has voted to amend the city’s ordinance to allow four-year terms and that decision will be finalized by voters in April.
If approved, the change wouldn’t go into effect until the municipal elections in 2022.
For Immediate Release
1/15/2021
Lake Ozark voters will consider when they go to the polls April 6 if the terms of elected officials should be extended to four years.
The board of aldermen recently voted to amend the city’s ordinances to allow for four-year terms rather than the current two-year terms for aldermen and mayor if approved by voters. If voters agree, the change will not take effect until the Municipal Elections in April 2022. It would not affect any of the positions open in the April 6, 2021, election.
The idea was first officially discussed at a board of aldermen workshop last fall. While none of the current elected officials would be affected, the basis for the change is that four-year terms would allow aldermen to gain a better understanding of the complexities of city government.
Alderman Dennis Klautzer has noted several times that it takes two years to understand how city government functions.
Alderman Judy Neels wondered if it would be more difficult to find residents who would want to commit to four years.
“At end of day, let’s face it, it’s the voters that decide,” Alderman Mark Maples noted. Let’s put it out there and let the voters decide.”
There would be no financial impact on the city if approved.
Other news
We now know the names of two individuals involved in the altercation with Camden County First District Commissioner James Gohagan two weeks ago.
According to a Sunshine Release, county workers Melvin Miller and Dean Duran were suspended with pay, until further investigation.
The two workers were allegedly heard on a viral video saying threatening words towards Mr. Gohagan, as he attempted to enter the commission office buildings to begin his day at work.
Gohagan says after that, he yanked his hand back and ended up cutting it on the wall.
The argument was apparently over photos taken inside the new office buildings, showing several safety hazards.
That prompted the City of Camdenton to reach out to the Commission, to offer a safety inspection and to remind the Commissioners that they need permits to do any construction.
Now, a special prosecutor has been requested as Mr. Gohagan has decided to press charges.
Camden County Sheriff Tony Helms says their investigation into the altercation continues and they’re awaiting details on who that special prosecutor will be.
The City Administrator in Camdenton’s reaching out to Camden County Commissioners after complaints from some people about the new Commission Offices.
City Administrator Jeff Hooker tells KRMS New those letters were given to Commissioners Greg Hasty, Don Williams and James Gohagan.
Hooker says the letter asks the county to let them know if they plan to do any construction on the building that would require a permit within the next several days.
Hooker says he nobody from the city’s been inside the building, but he’s offering to help set up an inspection for the new commission building or any other buildings in question.
Commissioner letter Hasty
Big corporations continue their attack on Missouri Senator Josh Hawley, following his decision to reject the electoral college votes due to fraud in the election.
In addition to Hallmark who reported earlier this week, Ameren Missouri, health care IT firm Cerner Corp and Edward Jones say they are suspending their campaign contributions immediately.
Additionally, former Republican politician Steve Schmidt, the founder of the anti-Trump Lincoln Project, says his group plans to purchase full-page ads in Missouri newspapers listing all of Hawley’s donors who are demanding their money back.
They also plan to put a spotlight on those who are still financing Hawley.
The Kansas City based Hallmark company has already indicated they wanted the donations returned.
The Camden County Sheriff’s Office is offering details on charges being filed after an altercation between County Commissioner James Gohagan and several county maintenance workers.
Camden County Sheriff Tony Helms tells KRMS News details on charges against a second maintenance worker will be finalized soon and that the coming special prosecutor may or may not recommend additional charges.
Gohagan recorded more than an hour of the exchange between himself, the maintenance workers and two Camden County Commissioners last week.
Lake Area Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler says the country can do without California Democrat Nancy Pelosi’s political vendetta against President Donald Trump.
In a statement, Hartzler says the House Speaker’s actions are self-serving and they provide a disservice to the country.
Pelosi wants to use the 25th Amendment to the Constitution to remove President Trump in another attempt at impeachment.
Hartzler also stated that she stands with Missouri Senator Josh Hawley as many Democrats and other Republicans are calling for him to step down, following his vote against the electoral college results.
She says he shouldn’t be punished for questioning fraud in any Presidential election and that she appreciates his push to see that future elections are “more secure.”
Hartzler Statement on Speaker Pelosi’s Efforts to Remove the President from Office
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) made the following statement regarding Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s intent to bring legislation to the floor calling on the Vice President to invoke the 25th amendment followed by articles of impeachment to remove the President:
“The forced removal of the President with less than a week remaining in his term is a political theater that the nation can do without. America is struggling to come together following the riots and violence at the Capitol, and this friction will grow worse because of Speaker Pelosi’s political vendetta. The nation should not be subjected to more animosity simply because Speaker Pelosi seeks to settle a score. I will not be supporting her efforts.
Next week, Joe Biden will be sworn in as President of the United States. We should be focused on bringing our nation together, not tearing it further apart. The Speaker’s actions are self-serving and do nothing other than provide a great disservice to our country.”
Camden County Commissioner James Gohagan is giving his side of what happened during an altercation with several county maintenance workers on Thursday.
Gohagan tells KRMS News the workers were waiting when he got to work that morning.
Gohagan says that’s about the time he started recording the exchange with another device and he thinks the trigger might have been a tour he gave of the new commission office building where it all happened.
But Gohagan says after he gave the tour, photos were taken inside the building and then posted online.
Audio of the altercation was later posted to social media and on Friday the Camden County prosecutor’s office confirmed in a release a special prosecutor was being called.
The investigation is ongoing and we’ll keep you posted on the latest details here on KRMS.
Listen to the full interview with Commissioner Gohagan and Christian Blood on the Ozarks Today.
Over 1,000 political scientists across the country have signed an open letter calling for President Trump to be removed from office immediately.
That includes Political Science Professor Bryce Reeder at the University of Missouri in Columbia, as well as a professor from UM St. Louis and four others from Northwest Missouri State University.
The professors say Trump’s actions shows he was unwilling or unable to fulfill his oath to protect and defend the constitution following the peaceful protest at the nation’s Capital, that turned violent when outside instigators attacked the building and entered the hallways.
Video of the group breaking through the crowd and destroying windows showed several citizens telling them “stop this” and “this isn’t how we are!” and asking the individuals “who are you?” with some screaming “Antifia, go away!”
Additional videos showed DC Police allowing the protestors access to the stairway, encouraging people to come up.
The political scientists are requesting the President be removed using the 25th amendment or an impeachment process.
As of yesterday, Vice President Mike Pence rejected these requests by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and others.
Five of Missouri’s eight congressional Representatives joined Missouri Senator Josh Hawley in objecting to the electoral college vote.
That includes both of the Lake Area’s Representatives, Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler.
Joining them was Representatives Sam Graves, Jason Smith and Ann Wagner.
Senator Josh Hawley was the only Missouri Senator to object and was one of only 6 Senators nationwide to do so.
Senator Roy Blunt and Representatives Cori Bush, Emanuel Cleaver the 2nd and Billy Long voted against the objection.
Long had originally stated that he would object.
Numerous state Capitols are expecting to see similar “Stop the Steal” rallies nationwide, including our capitol Jefferson City.
That rally is expected to start at 10AM.
According to the JC Police Department, the organizers were not given a permit and cannot march through the streets, so attendees can only march on the sidewalks.
A number of statewide politicians have indicated they will attend, including Representative Dean Dorman and State Senator Mike Moon, as well as former gubernatorial candidate Saundra McDowell.
Here are a few additional details on the protest at the State Capitol:
10:00 a.m. National anthem and opening prayer
10:30 a.m. Opening remarks from hosts; congratulations to those that are being inaugurated
11:00 a.m. Missouri 51st District Representative and author of “Insidious Changes” Dean Dohrman
11:30 a.m. Business Owner & Fabricating Specialist Mike Hudson
11:45 a.m. Farmer & Business Owner Mike Kimmell
12:00-1:30 p.m. Live Stream of Washington DC Protest Rally
1:30 p.m. Former State Rep. & New Missouri state Senator for the 29th District, Mike Moon
1:45 p.m. Missouri 107th District Representative Nick Schroer
2:30 p.m. Former Missouri governor candidate, Air Force Veteran & attorney Saundra McDowell
3:00 p.m. Closing Remarks
Photo Of Hawley Protest From Shutdown DC Twitter
Missouri Senator Josh Hawley is striking back following attacks on his Washington DC home Monday night.
In a post to Twitter, Hawley indicated that the group “Shutdown DC” went to the home and threatened his family.
Hawley says they vandalized his home and threatened his wife and newborn child while he was in Missouri.
The group “Shutdown DC” says they came with “Candles” and a “Copy of the Constitution” in order to show Hawley his decision to challenge the electoral college vote is “wrong.”
Here’s a link to a Twitter post by Congressman Ken Buck showing video of the “peaceful protest”: https://twitter.com/i/status/1346468744827006988
They’re getting set for a new legislative session in the state capitol, and COVID-19 is expected to remain a primary focus.
Some lawmakers think some local decisions made in response to the pandemic have been controversial.
Missouri Senate President Dave Shatz of Sullivan.
Other elected officials say some mayors and county commissions made necessary local decisions.
Missouri Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo of Kansas City.
The First Regular Session begins Wednesday at noon.
The Camden County Commission will meet this morning.
Items on their agenda include tax abatement and road petitions.
The commission has been facing harsh criticism over a decision in which the county road and bridge department proceeded to lay a gravel road into private property.
While the commission indicates the road has “always been there”, local residents have shown the area was a “private drive” and has never been a part of the road system.
The meeting is set to start at 10AM inside the old courthouse on the square in Camdenton and it is open to the public.
AGENDA(13)
Several Congressional members from the Ozarks will be objecting to the Electoral College results in the race for the Presidency on January 6th.
Congress will be certifying the Presidential Election results when the new session begins.
The members opposing the results including Representative Billy Long, Representative Jason Smith and Representative Vicky Hartzler.
Additionally, Representative Sam Graves from northern Missouri will also join the group.
Their announcement came as part of a letter posted to Jason Smith’s website.
There has been no word from Lake Area Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer on if he will join in the call or not.
Senator Josh Hawley mentioned earlier this week that he would also be objecting the results in the Senate.
Missouri Governor Mike Parson will give his annual State of the State address on Wednesday, January 27th.
The presentation will begin at 3 pm in the Missouri House Chamber at the State Capitol.
Governor Parson to Deliver 2021 State of the State Address
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Governor Mike Parson will deliver the 2021 State of the State Address on Wednesday, January 27, 2021.
Wednesday, January 27, 2021
Governor Parson to deliver 2021 State of the State Address
When: 3:00 p.m.
Where: Missouri House Chamber
State Capitol
One Senator from Missouri plans to object on January 6th when Congress counts the votes from the Electoral College.
The 2020 Presidential Election remains contested with numerous lawsuits having been filed.
Hawley spoke at a hearing in the Nation’s Capitol this week.
He says he can’t vote to certify an election in which some states broke their own election rules and processes.
Later in the day Wal-Mart tweeted out a comment saying “Go ahead, Get your 2 Hour Debate, hashtag sore loser.”
The company has since deleted the tweet and posted to their cooperate account apologizing, saying it was an “accident.”
The City of Lake Ozark wants your opinion as it tries to update its comprehensive plan.
Mayor Gerry Murawski tells KRMS News a survey has been sent out to people living in Lake Ozark that asks some basic questions in multiple choice format.
Murawski says the voting population of Lake Ozark is around 12-hundred people, but close to 15-thousand people are living in the city right now.
Murawski is running for re-election and he’ll be challenged by former mayor Johnnie Franzeskos.
Election filings are underway in the city of Camdenton.
Camdenton Mayor John McNabb will run for re-election in the April 6 election in 2021.
He’ll be running against challengers Daniel Ousley and Steve Eden.
Eric Faes has filed to run for Alderman Ward 1 while Brenda Weir has filed to run as Alderman Ward 2.
You have until January 19th to file.
2021 Filings to Date
Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski will face a familiar challenger come April 6th in the general municipal election.
Former Lake Ozark Mayor Johnnie Franzeskos filed for re-election on the first day of sign-ups.
Murawski has also filed for re-election after beating out Franzeskos two years ago.
Alderman Vernon Jaycox from Ward 3 and incumbent Larry Giampa have also filed for re-election.
Filing will end January 19th and you can sign up to run for office at City Hall if interested.
There’s a new interim director at the Tri-County Lodging Association.
The Lake of the Ozarks Business Districts of Camden, Miller and Morgan County are naming Lagina Fitzpatrick for the new post.
She takes over for former Director Jim Divincen, who retired earlier in 2020.
Fitzpatrick previously served as Director of Sales at the TCLA and has helped with numerous events, including the Major League Fishing Cup Series, the Grand American Shoot and Midwest Sports Productions.
The Camdenton Board of Aldermen are slated to meet this evening.
Items on their agenda include 2 public hearings, 1 on the property owned by the Evans family and another to annex 99 Southside Drive into the city limits.
The city will also vote on an ordinance to authorize a contract agreement for administrative services regarding the block grant application for road improvements on Business 5, as well as a vote on authorizing an agreement with SFS Architecture for the bid documents regarding the proposed community center.
The meeting starts at 6PM at city hall. It will be streamed live on Facebook and it is open to the public.
See the full agenda here: CAMDENTON AGENDA
The Camden County Commission will meet today (Tuesday).
There are a number of items on their agenda, including discussions on Tax Abatements, The Cares Act, The County EMA Director, E911 signs and roadway materials and an agreement with the Schraeder law firm.
The meeting starts at 10AM inside the old courthouse in Camdenton and it is open to the public.
AGENDA(12)
Missouri’s Electoral College is unanimous in voting for President Trump and Vice President Mike Pence following last month’s contested Presidential election.
Ten electors cast their votes Monday and Governor Mike Parson has certified the votes.
Governor Parson also certified those electors as being qualified to vote in the Electoral College.
Votes cast in the Lake Area are now in the hands of Missouri’s Electoral College, and those votes will officially be cast on Monday.
Governor Mike Parson is announcing a meeting of Electoral College Members at the State Capitol at 2 pm.
That’s when Missouri’s electors will cast their votes for President and Vice President of the United States.
The meeting will be live-streamed on Governor Parson’s Facebook page and we’ll be following the proceedings here in KRMS.
Governor Parson Announces Meeting of Missouri’s Electoral College Members
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri’s Electoral College members will meet on Monday, December 14 at 2 p.m. at the State Capitol to cast their votes for President and Vice President of the United States.
The meeting and subsequent vote of the electors provides the official assignment of Missouri’s 10 electoral votes to the candidates for President and Vice President of the United States who received a plurality of the popular vote in Missouri’s November 3 General Election. Each of Missouri’s electors are bound by honor to vote for the winners of the state’s popular vote.
Prior to the meeting, Governor Parson will sign Certificates of Acquisition certifying that an abstract of votes cast during the General Election will have been certified to him from each county in the state of Missouri. He will further certify that abstracts of votes have been certified to him showing that each of Missouri’s 10 electors received votes qualifying them to vote in the Electoral College.
The meeting of the electors will be held in the Senate Lounge at the State Capitol. Media and guests should arrive by 1:30 p.m., so they can be seated before the electors arrive. Attendance will be limited, social distancing guidelines will be followed, and mask wearing is encouraged.
The meeting will be live-streamed on Governor Parson‘s Facebook Page, and pictures will be available on Flickr. An overflow room to view the live-stream will be located in House Hearing Room 3. To view the formal notice and agenda for the meeting of Missouri’s Electoral College members, click here.
The Board of State Canvassers have certified the results of the November election.
Officials say over 3 Million Missourians, or around 70% of the state, voted in the general election.
The board is comprised of 3 people, including Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Judge Patricia Joyce and Judge Jon Beetem.
Board of State Canvassers Certify November General Election Results
Jefferson City, Mo. — The Board of State Canvassers, composed of Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft, Judge Patricia Joyce and Judge Jon Beetem, certified the results of the Nov. 3 general election today.
“With November’s results official, we are pleased to have completed another successful election cycle in unprecedented times in Missouri,” Ashcroft said. “The success of November’s election is thanks to the tireless effort of Missouri’s voters, election authorities and poll workers.”
Official results show 3,026,028 Missourians, 70.07% of registered voters, voted in the general election.
The certification process, set by Missouri statute, ensures every vote is counted and vote totals are accurate before the results are official. After Election Day, local officials have two weeks to verify vote totals and evaluate provisional ballots. The Secretary of State’s Office then has until the second Tuesday in December to validate the results reported by each of Missouri’s 116 local election authorities. The secretary of state and a panel of judges, comprising the Board of State Canvassers, then meet to certify the official results.
According to state law, any candidate for election to any office may challenge the correctness of the returns for the office, charging that irregularities occurred. In addition, the law states the result of any election on any question may be contested by registered voters from the area in which the election was held. Any authorized person wishing to contest the election must do so no later than 30 days after the secretary of state officially announces the results. The process for contesting an election is detailed in state statutes 115.553-115.600 RSMo.
Official results from the November election, as well as previous elections, are available at enr.sos.mo.gov.
Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler has also been tapped to serve as a Conferee for the National Defense Authorization Act for 2021.
She joins Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer, both members who represent the Lake of the Ozarks region.
House Leader Kevin McCarthy says of Hartzler “She’s proved herself to be a steady and devoted advocate for strengthening our national defense and she understands it’s critical need for modernizing.”
Hartzler Selected as National Defense Authorization Act Conferee
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04), the Ranking Member of the Tactical Air and Land Forces Subcommittee on the House Armed Services Committee, was selected by Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy to serve as a conferee on the Conference Committee for the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). As part of the committee, made up of leaders from the House and Senate, Hartzler will help resolve the differences between the House and Senate versions of the defense authorization bill.
“I am honored to be chosen once again to serve on the conference committee for the NDAA. This annual legislation brings together bipartisan proposals to strengthen our national defense programs and give our service members the resources they need to complete their mission. I will continue to fight for provisions that give our troops a pay raise, keep America’s competitive advantage over our adversaries, and provide military families the support they deserve.
The House version of the NDAA includes major wins for Missouri, authorizing important funding for Missouri’s military installations and defense programs, as well as funding to improve the lives of our service members and their families. I will do everything in my ability as a conferee to ensure these provisions are included in the final conference report,” Hartzler said.
Announcing the conferees representing House Republicans, McCarthy said about Hartzler:
“As a leader on the Armed Services Committee, Vicky has proven to be a steady and devoted advocate for strengthening our national defense. She understands the critical need for constantly modernizing our military so that our troops have the resources they need to maintain our competitive edge and keep America safe. Likewise, she recognizes the important responsibility we have to make sure we improve the lives of our troops and their families who sacrifice so much for their nation. This NDAA will be among the most important in decades, and I’m confident that Vicky, with her tireless work on behalf of our men and women in uniform, will be instrumental in guiding it into law.”
The NDAA is the annual legislation that determines the policies and funding levels for the Department of Defense and other national security entities. After the conferees agree on the conference report, the report must be passed by both the House of Representatives and the Senate before the President can sign the defense authorization bill into law.
A lake area Representative is being chosen to serve as a conferee between the House and Senate for reauthorizing the National Defense Authorization Act.
House leader Kevin McCarthy choosing Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer for the discussions that are set for 2021.
McCarthy called Luetkemeyer’s leadership as “Distinguished” and “Effective” as a leader who gets results, and puts the priorities of his constituents first.
Luetkemeyer has served on numerous committees over the years, including the House Financial Services Committee.
Luetkemeyer Chosen to Serve as 2021 NDAA Conferee
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy announced Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) has been chosen to serve as a conferee on the House-Senate Conference Committee for the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
“Reauthorizing the NDAA is one of Congress’ most important jobs each year. It is critical that we ensure the brave men and women of America’s military have everything they could possibly need to continue defending this country. As a member of the House Financial Services Committee, one of my main priorities is to enhance our nation’s defense against illicit finance and money laundering in order to maintain America’s financial security. I am honored to have been chosen and look forward to getting to work.”
On Congressman Luetkemeyer’s selection, Leader McCarthy said, “Blaine is a patriot whose love of country and understanding of our national security threats make him a natural choice to help get this critical defense bill signed into law. Through his time in Congress, he has distinguished himself as an effective and results-driven leader who puts the priorities of his constituents above all else. His broad experience will help bring a unique perspective to the NDAA process that will help deliver an outcome that our service members both need and deserve.”
The City of Osage Beach is announcing dates for municipal elections next year.
Races for Alderman in Wards one, two and three will be decided April 6.
Candidates can begin filing on December 15th and will have until January 19 to do so.
Candidate packets are available at the City Clerk’s office.
One national lawmaker representing the Lake Area is talking about the contested Presidential election.
Senator Roy Blunt spoke to the national media on Sunday.
He says he’ll be committed to working with the other side of the aisle, regardless of the outcome of this year’s Presidential Election.
Senator Blunt is chair of the Senate Rules Committee and he says plans for a normal inauguration are underway.
Sec. of State Ashcroft
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is thanking the Lake Area for a smooth election day.
In a release, Ashcroft points to voters, election officials and poll workers for making the general election a success.
According to unofficial numbers from Tuesday, around 70-percent of Missouri’s registered voters turned in ballots.
Local election officials have two weeks after the election to report final results to the Secretary of State’s office.
Jefferson City, Mo. — Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft is thanking voters, election officials and poll workers today for helping to make yesterday’s general election a success.
“The success of yesterday’s historic election is thanks to the tireless effort of Missouri’s voters, election authorities and poll workers,” Ashcroft said. “Election officials and their staff work long hours under stressful conditions, and it’s their preparation in the weeks and months prior and their diligent effort on Election Day that made Missouri’s elections run smoothly. It was great to see so many Missourians participating in our democracy and making their voices heard.”
According to unofficial results, about 70% of the roughly 4.3 million registered Missourians voted in yesterday’s general election.
Results posted on the Election Night Reporting site are unofficial. Local election authorities have two weeks after the election to report their certified results to the Secretary of State, and the Secretary’s Office must certify the state results by Dec. 8.
Here are the top results from Election Night across the Lake area.
In Morgan County, it was incumbent Republican Sheriff Norman Dills holding off Democrat challenger Mike Nienhuis.
For Eastern Commissioner it was Republican Brian Lehman beating out Democrat Larry Schmitz.
For Western Commissioner it was Republican Ryan Hoffa beating out Democrat Howard Phillips.
In Benton County, it was Republican Larry Berry defeating Democrat John Spry for Southern District Commissioner.
All other local races in the quad-county region were uncontested.
Statewide:
Governor Mike Parson defeated Nicole Galloway to remain as Governor of the Show Me State, while Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, Secretary of State John Ashcroft, Attorney General Eric Schmidt and State Treasurer Scott Fitzpatrick all retain their positions.
In the area district races, it was Representative Blaine Luetkemeyer retaining his position for his 6th term representation the Lake area in the 3rd district while Republican Vicky Hartzler retained her spot in the state’s 4th district.
Republican Bruce Sassmann went on to defeat Democrat Nancy Regan for the state’s 62nd district while Suzie Pollock also defeated Pat Bellew for the 123rd district in the Lake Area.
Missouri voters also said no to Amendment One, while saying Yes to Amendment 3.
For more statewide races, see the Secretary of State’s website here: STATE RACES
Below are the county election results:
Camden Results
Don’t forget. Live election night coverage starts at 7PM On News/Talk KRMS,
News Director Christian Blood, Anchor John Rogger and Reporter Mike Anthony will have live coverage, with news updates at the Top and Bottom of the hour.
Listen over the air on 1150AM, 97.5 FM, 103.3 FM or 93.5 HD 3 FM. You can also stream it live at http://krmsradio.com or listen on the KRMS Radio App in Google and iTunes, or the TuneIn Radio App.
Photo by Parker Johnson on Unsplash
There are a few rules in place at polling places across the Ozarks.
Election officials say you’ll want to make sure you prepare ahead of time, as lines are expected to be long.
They recommend bringing at least 2 masks with you, in case your polling place requires them, as well as hand sanitizers, tissues and a black ink pen.
You should also double check all your documents, and make sure you’re in the right polling place before waiting.
The Secretary of State’s Office says you’ll be able to vote as long as you’re in line at a polling location when the clock hits 7 pm.
The Election Night Reporting Site will not be activated until all polling places are closed and all votes have been cast.
Political t-shirts, hats or buttons will not be allowed in polling places.
The only people allowed inside are registered voters, kids under 18 with an adult who is voting, election authority personnel and law enforcement officials.
Officials at Capital Region Medical Center also recommend these safety tips:
1. Check your voting location. Your usual polling place may have changed due to COVID-19 concerns.
2. Review your documents. Make sure you have everything you’ll need to vote, including any necessary identification.
3. Complete a sample ballot at home. This will help you move through the voting process more quickly.
4. Bring your own supplies. This includes:
5. Leave the kids at home. In a normal year, it’s great to introduce kids to the voting process. But this year, it’s most important to avoid bringing unnecessary people with you to the polling place, if possible.
6. Get to your polling place as safely as possible. Try to avoid crowded buses or trains. If you use public transportation, open the windows for ventilation if you can. Wear a mask. And use hand sanitizer after touching hand rails and doors.
7. Avoid crowds. Vote early, if possible—and at off-peak times, like mid-morning. If you drove, wait in the car until you can see lines are shorter.
8. Clean your hands often. Use your hand sanitizer before entering and after leaving your polling place. But do not touch electronic screens until your hands are dry. Sanitizer can damage screens. Do not wipe down any voting equipment unless you’re told to do so by a poll worker.
9. Keep your distance. Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in line and at polling tables. And follow directions to enter and exit safely.
10. Wear your face mask at all times. Keep it on while in line and while voting—and make sure you’re wearing it properly.
Photo by Elliott Stallion on Unsplash
Voter turnout in Missouri is expected to be strong for 2020.
The Secretary of State’s Office is expecting a voter turnout of around 75-percent in the Show Me State, and that would mark the highest turnout since 1992.
Officials say 828-thousand absentee ballots had been counted by Sunday night.
That’s around three times the number of absentee ballots turned in during the 2016 Presidential Election.
Missouri has 4.3 million registered voters and many took the opportunity to vote early when the state relaxed early voting restrictions due to COVID-19.
Photo by Jonathan Borba on Unsplash
Key local health officials are “walking away” from key jobs in Missouri.
At least a dozen county health department directors in MO have quit since March, after facing threats and harassment over actions they took to slow the spread of coronavirus.
The head of the MO Association of Local Public Health Agencies says its getting more difficult to fill those key positions.
MO is seeing a record number of Covid-19 cases on a daily basis.
Republican Governor Mike Parson allowed the state to reopen in mid-June without a statewide mask mandate or social distancing requirement.
(Story via our news partner CBS)
The Missouri Farm Bureau will hold a ‘Yes on Amendment 3’ virtual press conference on Monday morning at 10 o’clock.
The organization says a yes vote means voting districts in smaller areas will remain together instead of being sliced up for what it calls political reasons .
One official is concerned about opposition to the measure.
President Blake Hurst tells KRMS News much of the money spent to defeat Amendment 3 is coming from billionaire George Soros, the National Education Association and Planned Parenthood.
WHEN: Monday, November 2, 2020, 10:00 a.m.
WHAT: Virtual Press Conference supporting a YES vote on Amendment 3
WHERE: Zoom; details below
WHO: Leaders from across the state of Missouri, including (tentatively):
HOW: The individuals listed above will make brief remarks before opening the event to questions from the media.
Due to the event being held virtually, attendees are required to preregister here: https://us02web.zoom.us/
More information about YES on 3 is available at mofb.org/YesOn3.
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash
Here’s a look at the General Election Sample Ballots for the Four Counties that make up Lake of the Ozarks.
Camden County:
Camden Sample Ballot NOV 3 2020
Miller County:
Miller Sample Ballot NOV 3 2020
Morgan County:
Morgan Sample Ballot NOV 3 2020
Benton County:
Benton County Election Selections
Missouri Governor Mike Parson will hold a ‘Get Out the Vote Statewide’ tour on Monday.
He’ll visit Jefferson City, St. Joseph, Kirksville, Hannibal, Cape Girardeau and Cassville.
Parson is running against Democrat challenger Nicole Galloway, Libertarian candidate Rik Combs and Green Party candidate Jerome Howard Bauer.
Amendment 3 to the Missouri Constitution’s on the ballot for this year’s elections, and the Missouri Farm Bureau is offering its support for the measure.
President Blake Hurst tells KRMS News that’ll be good for small towns and rural areas because it will keep communities together, instead of slicing them up for political reasons.
Hurst says the opposition to Amendment 3 is loaded with cash.
Hurst is asking Missourians to consider why there’s so much interest in defeating Amendment 3 coming from outside Missouri.
Missouri Needs Real Representation
By Eric Bohl
This November, Missourians have the opportunity to clean up politics by voting yes on Amendment 3. This measure will fix the redistricting mess that out-of-state activists brought to Missouri in 2018. It will also reduce campaign contribution limits and outlaw gifts from paid lobbyists to legislators. These are real reforms that we need in Jefferson City.
In 2018, out-of-state political activists funded an effort to change Missouri’s redistricting process. They sold their plan by claiming it would make elections fairer and remove politics from the process. In fact, it did exactly the opposite. This deceitful plan, which passed on the ballot as Amendment 1, literally elevated partisanship to be the primary issue in redistricting.
These out-of-state activists looked at the state legislature and decided we had too many members of one political party and not enough of the other. They claimed this was due to unfair, rigged district boundaries.
In reality, Missouri’s legislative district lines don’t jump around a lot. They’re mostly squared off and keep most counties and communities intact. People living in these communities tend to see the world similarly and thus vote for people like them.
Politically, this goes both ways. For example, in 2016, the 1st Congressional District in urban St. Louis voted for Hillary Clinton by a 77-19 margin. Should we be shocked to learn that every State Representative and Senator in the 1st District is a Democrat? The same election, Southeast Missouri’s 8th Congressional District went for Donald Trump by a similar 75-21 margin. Is it any wonder every state legislator there is Republican?
The billionaires behind the 2018 effort did not think these results were acceptable. They decided that mixing up the boundaries through political redistricting might give their preferred candidates a chance at more seats. Their plan said partisan voting history in prior elections must be the main consideration when drawing new district lines. It put the focus on creating politically “competitive” districts for the next election – not trying to keep counties, towns and neighborhoods intact.
Making toss-up districts out of heavily Democratic or heavily Republican areas requires them to be mixed together using intense gerrymandering. There’s simply no way around it. If you take a sliver of St. Louis and draw a snaking spaghetti-noodle of a district southeast toward the Bootheel, you might eventually pick up enough Democrats and enough Republicans to approach a 50-50 district.
But who does that district represent? Such a district might slice a dozen communities in half to achieve its partisan goals. Boundaries would be incomprehensible. Next-door neighbors would have different representatives, each of whom might live a few counties away.
These billionaire activists want to engineer particular election results in our state. This should not be the goal of redistricting. Real representation should. We need to focus on keeping local voices for local communities.
Amendment 3 will stop the gerrymandering and keep communities whole. Missourians should vote yes on Amendment 3 to protect their voices in state government.
Eric Bohl, of Columbia, Missouri, is Director of Public Affairs and Advocacy for Missouri Farm Bureau, the state’s largest farm organization.
Numerous races will be decided next Tuesday after the polls open at 6 am.
On the ballot are races for President of the United, Governor of Missouri, Attorney General, multiple races for US and state representatives and also Amendments one and three to the Missouri Constitution.
Mail-in voting has already begun all over the U-S.
You can vote in person at polling places until 7 pm November 3rd.
We are now one week away from the 2020 Presidential Election.
Governor Mike Parson was in Osage Beach Monday night talking about what he thinks is at stake this time around.
Governor Parson was joined by US Missouri Congressman Jason Smith and Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe at John Farrell Real Estate.
Election day is November 3rd.
Governor Mike Parson will be in town today.
He’s traveling through several Lake communities for his “Mike Works Bus Tour.”
Parson will be at Paul’s Furniture in St. Robert at 2:30PM, before traveling to the Lebanon Fairgrounds at 4PM and will finish out the day in Camdenton at the Orscheln Farm and Home store at 5:30PM.
Social distancing and wearing masks are being encouraged at all 3 events.
Gov. Parson‘s Schedule for Oct. 25-26, 2020
Governor Parson Continues 33 Stop Statewide Bus Tour
Jefferson City, Mo. – Governor Mike Parson will continue his statewide “Mike Works Bus Tour” on Sunday and Monday, stopping in Jackson, Johnson, Pettis, Phelps, Pulaski, Laclede and Camden counties. Governor Parson will travel with other statewide elected officials throughout the bus tour to join Missourians across the state in promoting his balanced approach to combatting COVID-19, rebuilding our state’s economy, and protecting the American Dream.
Visit MikeWorksTour.com to view the entire bus tour schedule.
Monday, Oct. 26, 2020
Phelps County
What: “Mike Works Bus Tour”
When: 1:00 p.m.
Where: Mo-Sci Corporation, 4040 Hy Point Blvd, Rolla, MO 65401
Pulaski County
What: “Mike Works Bus Tour” Stop
When: 2:30 p.m.
Where: Paul’s Furniture, 100 Country Club Dr, St Robert, MO 65584
Laclede County
What: “Mike Works Bus Tour” Stop
When: 4:00 p.m.
Where: Lebanon Fairgrounds, Mills Dr, Lebanon, MO 65536
Camden County
What: “Mike Works Bus Tour” Stop
When: 5:30 p.m.
Where: Orscheln Farm & Home, 1089 East, US-54, Camdenton, MO 65020
Governor Mike Parson continues his gubernatorial campaign after recovering from COVID-19.
And he does so with united support from numerous law enforcement agencies around the state.
Steele Shippy, campaign manager for the Governor.
He tells KRMS News Governor Parson has been given endorsements from the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police, Missouri Sheriff’s United and the Missouri Police Chiefs Association.
Shippy also says the Governor will be in St. Louis today with a special announcement scheduled this afternoon at 3 o’clock.
We’ll pass along details on that announcement here on KRMS.
For the first time in Missouri gubernatorial history, sheriffs around the state are united in their support for one candidate.
That’s Governor Mike Parson.
Missouri Sheriffs United made the announcement one day after the Missouri Fraternal Order of Police put its support behind the Governor.
Steele Shippy is the campaign manager for Governor Parson.
He tells KRMS News the endorsements reflect the governor’s commitment to law enforcement personnel and to the safety of Missourians as violent crime continues to spike in parts of the state.
Shippy was interviewed by Christian Blood on the Ozarks Today.
Missouri Police Chiefs Association Endorse Governor Mike Parson:
“Governor Parson knows what it takes to stop violent crime and keep Missourians safe”
Jefferson City, MO – The Missouri Police Chiefs Association announced today their endorsement of Governor Mike Parson as he seeks a full term in the November 2020 election.
“Like the Members of the Missouri Police Chiefs Association and the officers of their departments across the state, Governor Parson knows what it takes to stop violent crime and keep Missourians safe,” Chief Sean P. Fagan, President, Missouri Police Chiefs Association, said. “Police Chiefs in Missouri know Governor Parson is the only candidate committed to preventing radical efforts to defund the police by out of state special interest groups. For these reasons, the Missouri Police Chiefs Association stands behind Governor Parson.”
Governor Parson has a strong background in public safety, having spent a 22-year career in law enforcement serving Missouri and our country. Governor Parson served two tours of duty in the United States Army as an MP, protecting our nation overseas. After returning home, he joined the Sheriff’s office and eventually was elected by his community to serve as Polk County Sheriff.
“The members of the Missouri Police Chiefs Association are proud to endorse Governor Parson for his re-election as Governor for the Great State of Missouri. We do so because of his continued support and dedication to the brave men and women who risk their lives to protect our communities. He has worked hard in making sure law enforcement has the tools they need to do their job safely,” Chief Fagan said.
“I want to personally thank the Police Chiefs Association for their support. I am proud to stand with hundreds of Chiefs across Missouri who are serving on the front lines protecting our communities in our fight against violent crime,” Governor Parson said, “Whether it’s ensuring our brave men and women in uniform are equipped with the resources necessary to do their job and keep Missourians safe, or standing up to the mob who seek to defund and abolish the police, the Police Chiefs know they can count on me as Governor to have their back in tough times,” Governor Parson said.
The Missouri Police Chiefs Association represents over 600 members throughout the State of Missouri, and has done so since 1953.
The full endorsement letter may be found here.
Several items are on the agenda for the Camden County Commission this morning.
That includes two grants, one for the Sheriff’s office for radios and another for the Macks Creek Water District.
The board also is looking at the rezoning of two properties.
The meeting is set for 10AM at the old courthouse and it is open to the public.
AGENDA(10)
The city of Osage Beach has a new Alderman in Ward 1.
Mayor John Olivarri appointing resident Bob O’Steen to the open position.
The seat was formally held by Greg Massey, who resigned on July 20.
Alderman O’Steen has been a resident since 2016 and has served on various boards including Wonderland Camp and the Eldon Area Chamber of Commerce.
“During a Special Board of Aldermen meeting on Thursday, September 3, 2020,
with confirmation from the Board of Aldermen, Mayor Olivarri appointed Bob O’Steen as Alderman for Ward I, the seat became vacant with Greg Massey’s resignation on July 20, 2020.
Alderman O’Steen has been a resident of Osage Beach Ward I since 2016. He is a 1983 graduate from Camdenton High School and earned his Communications Degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He has been active in community affairs by serving on various boards, including Wonderland Camp, Eldon Area Chamber of Commerce and Tri-County YMCA. Bob currently works for USA Mortgage as a Mortgage Banker/Branch Manager of the Lake area operations.”
Residents who work at the new Old Navy in Osage Beach are getting paid to work the polls on election day.
The Company says they’re partnering with Civic Alliance and Power The Polls to help recruit more than 250,00 new poll workers and they plan to pay their employees up to eight hours to work those polls.
Officials say the goal is to ensure that polling sites stay open and operate efficiently on November 3rd.
BIG NEWS!We’re partnering with Power the Polls to empower our 50,000 employees with paid time off to serve as poll…
Posted by Old Navy on Tuesday, September 1, 2020
The Osage Beach Board of Aldermen have a packed scheduled for their regular and special meetings planned for today (Thursday).
Items on the special agenda include filling a vacancy on the board of alderman for ward one.
Items on the regular agenda include a number of re-zoning requests and motions to approve purchases for the Police and Public Works departments.
The board is also expected to discuss a possible $7 Million dollar resurfacing plan for the city’s major roadways, including Osage Beach Parkway and Industrial Drive.
The special meeting starts at 5:45PM on ZOOM only and the regular meeting starts at 6PM at City hall and it is open to the public.
OB BOA Meetings 090320
The Camdenton Board of Alderman will meet this evening (Tuesday.)
Items on the agenda include an ordinance to adopt the budget, an ordinance for waste services, a presentation from Camdenton crossroads as well as various department reports and a closed session at the end of the meeting.
The meeting starts at 6PM in city hall and it’s open to the public.
camdenton boa 090120
The Camden County Commission will meet this morning (Monday.)
Items on the agenda include a discussion on an Assessor ESRI Contract.
The meeting starts at 10AM in the old courthouse and is open to the public.
AGENDA(8)
The Camden County Commission will meet today (Thursday).
Items on their agenda include a CTS Contract amendment, Budget amendments and a discussion on the cares act small business grants.
There’s also a meeting with Polycom that starts at 11AM.
The main meets start at 10AM in the old courthouse and they are open to the public.
AGENDA(7)
Governor Mike Parson will be the guest of honor this weekend at the Camden County Republican’s club meeting in Osage Beach.
The Governor is visiting the lake for a campaign stop at the Farrell Barn on Farrell Drive this Saturday.
The event is scheduled for 5:30 to 7:00PM and those wishing to attend can RSVP to Resa at 314-574-3220 or resa@capaitalenhancementinc.com
Additional Details are below:
Governor
The Lake Ozark Board of Alderman will meet this evening (Tuesday).
Items on their agenda include lease agreements, code amendments, event approvals and a discussion on the outdoor warning sirens.
The meeting starts at 6PM at City Hall and is open to the Public.
Lake Ozark BOA 8-25-20-compressed
The Camden County Commission will meet this morning (Tuesday.)
Items on their agenda include a discussion on the tax rate, followed by a CTS discussion at 11AM and a meeting in the meeting chamber at 1PM.
The meetings start at 10AM in at the old courthouse and are open to the public.
AGENDA(6)
Trouble is brewing in the Sunrise Beach Fire District.
Since the resignation of former Board member Brian Layman, board President Denise Dill and current Director Robert Hemen apparently are not seeing eye to eye on anything.
At the meeting in July, Director Hemen suggested that Mr. Rick Butler, a candidate who ran against President Dill, be appointed in the vacated seat.
However, Dill did not second the motion so it went nowhere.
In the same meeting, President Dill made a motion that Garrett Blackwell be appointed to the board to replace Layman, however Hemen did not second that motion and it again went nowhere.
The August meeting was canceled due to one of the two board members not showing up.
At this time, it appears the board is heading towards having a judge make the final call on who will fill the spot until the board elections next April, but that too has to be voted on.
PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
18 August 2020
Current Status of the Board of Directors
of the
Sunrise Beach Fire Protection District
The Board of Directors is comprised of three elected seats. One seat is currently vacant, the other two seats are occupied by President Denise Dill and Director Robert Hemen. In April of 2020, the voters approved increasing the number of Board of Directors from three persons to five persons. The two additional seats will not be up for election until April of 2021.
In June of 2020, then Director Brian Layman, announced to the Board of Directors in Closed Session that he had moved out of the District. Director Layman tendered his resignation the week after the Board Meeting. The Board held an Emergency Meeting on 24 June 2020 to accept Director Layman’s resignation and it was so moved.
Missouri Statute 321.200 states: Any vacancy on the board shall be filled by the remaining elected members of the board, except when less than two elected members remain on the board any vacancy shall be filled by the circuit court of the county in which all or a majority of the district lies. The appointee or appointees shall act until the next biennial election at which a director or directors are elected to serve the remainder of the unexpired term.
At the Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors in July 2020, Director Hemen made three motions:
1) The time of the Board Meetings to be moved from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
2) That all public communications (including press releases and social media posts), except during emergency incidents, must be approved by the Board of Directors
3) Mr. Rick Butler, the candidate that ran against President Dill in the April 2020 election, be appointed to the seat vacated by Layman
All three motions received no second and were not voted on.
President Dill made a motion that Garrett Blackwell be appointed to the seat. Mr. Blackwell previously served on the Board. The motion was not seconded.
President Dill recommended that the case be taken to court and let a judge decide who should be appointed, to which Director Hemen refused.
After tabling the discussion until after public comment, the Board heard public comment and the meeting was adjourned with no further issues resolved.
Director Hemen requested that the August 2020 meeting start at 6:30 pm and added three topics to the agenda:
1) Audio or video recording of all public meetings beginning in September 2020
2) Residency requirement of all new employees
3) Change the meeting time from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm or 7:00 pm.
President Dill maintained that the meeting time was not officially changed and will remain at 5:30 pm.
The August meeting of the Board of Directors scheduled for 5:30 pm on 17 August 2020, was canceled due to no quorum. This means that at least one board member was present at the time the meeting was posted to begin and, after waiting the recommended amount of time by District’s Counsel, stated for the record that no quorum was present and thus the meeting was canceled.
At this time, the two board members are dead locked on several issues. Residents have inquired as to how this can be resolved or how can the District proceed?
At this point the following can occur:
1) The Board Members would have to agree on a candidate for appointment and fill the vacancy.
2) The Board can vote to take the matter to court and allow a judge to choose the candidate.
3) The Board could, conceivably, continue the debate until the April 2021 election when the two new seats are elected and then the four-person board would appoint the vacant seat, which being of an equal number, could also potentially be dead locked on a fifth candidate.
What is not allowed under the current situation.
1) Can we have a special election for the vacant seat?
The law does not state the vacant seat can be filled by special election; it specifically states the vacancy shall be filled by the remaining board members. However, if the board decided to hold such an election, Morgan County does not allow local elections during a Presidential Primary (August 2020) or Presidential Election (November 2020) per the Morgan County Clerk. This means that such an election would not be held until April 2021 at the earliest. This would be same election the two new seats would be voted on.
2) Since a five-person board was approved, can’t you just appoint both candidates until the next election?
No, under Missouri Statute 321.120, regarding the additional seats, the new seats must be elected, which in this case would be the April 2021 election.
Questions of service and the budget have been raised by residents if the board would continue to be dead locked on issues. Rest assured, the District operations will continue. The Board approves the annual budget and approved policies in which bills and payroll can be paid so long as those expenditures fall within the approved budget. Additional purchases such as large renovations or truck purchases would require board approval.
Should the Board remain dead locked into December when the 2021 budget is presented, the District may proceed into 2021 with the previously approved 2020 budget being reused. While this is not the preferred way to proceed, it does allow the District to move forward and for services to not be interrupted.
Board Meetings are held the third Monday of every month at 5:30 pm (unless a change is approved by the Board) at the District Headquarters, 30 Porter Mill Spring Rd., Sunrise Beach, MO. 65079.
20_july_regular_session_minutes
The Laurie Police Department is down another cop after a reserve officer claiming he’s a whistleblower is fired.
Larry Deves says he confronted Mayor Alan Kimberling at a board meeting August 11th.
Deves tells KRMS News Mayor Kimberling assured him at the meeting in front of witnesses his whistleblower status would be respected.
But two days after the meeting, Deves says he got a letter from interim police chief Mike Nienhuis that said he should turn in his badge.
KRMS News obtained video footage of Mayor Kimberling and other city officials going into the police evidence room on multiple days and Deves and other law enforcement officials question the move.
The City of Laurie says no wrongdoing was found on the part of former police chief Mark Black or former assistant chief Angela Nickerson, who says she was fired without a reason.
A Camden County Commissioner is speaking up about how his property taxes were paid late, but still on time.
Don Williams says back in February, he thought his property taxes were paid by a family estate, but that wasn’t the case.
Williams tell KRMS News even though his property taxes were paid late, they were still paid within a 30-day provision that does not nullify his recent re-election in Camden County.
Williams won his race for Camden County Commissioner in a landslide over Patrick Cochran, Jimmy Adams and Nathan Rinne.
No time to smell the roses for Camden County Commissioner Don Williams after getting 49-percent of the vote in his race.
Williams beat Patrick Cochran by over 900 votes in Tuesday’s voting, and he’s says he’s ready to get to work with James Gohagan, who beat out Beverly Thomas for her seat in Camden County.
Williams tells KRMS News he was surprised voter turnout was as low as it was.
Just over 34-percent of registered voters made it to the polls on Tuesday.
Sheriff Tony Helms
Sheriff Tony Helms will keep his post in Camden County, and he thinks the big margin of victory over his opponents might have had something to with his appearances on national TV.
Sheriff Helms went toe-to-toe with CNN host Don Lemon after video of a pool party in the Lake Area went viral after the Memorial Day weekend.
Helms tells KRMS News he also gives credit to the people who helped with his campaign.
Helms took in more than 56-percent of the votes for Camden County Sheriff, beating out Chris Edgar by 23-hundred votes.
The state of Missouri is maintaining its Triple A credit rating.
According to Moody’s Investor Service, the outlook for the state is stable with strong financial management practices in place and below average debt and pension burdens.
The S&P Global ratings say the ratings and outlook on all Missouri debt is stable.
The state competitively sold $173 Million to refinancing their outstanding bands yesterday, saving Missourians around $22 million dollars in total.
Missouri Taxpayers to Save $22 Million Through Bond Refinancing, State’s AAA Credit Rating Reaffirmed
(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, the state of Missouri competitively sold $173 million to refinance outstanding bonds, saving Missouri taxpayers approximately $22 million. The true interest cost of the new bonds was 0.38 percent.
“I’m very proud of our public servants who continue working hard to maintain Missouri’s AAA credit rating,” Governor Mike Parson said. “We always want to do what’s best for our citizens, and we remain committed to finding solutions that will save Missouri taxpayers’ hard earned dollars.”
According to Moody’s Investor’s Service, “The outlook for the state of Missouri is stable, reflecting the state’s history of stable available fund balances, strong financial management practices, and below average debt and pension burden. Missouri’s strong expenditure flexibility has enabled the state to proactively respond to the revenue declines caused by the coronavirus.”
S&P Global Ratings affirmed its AAA long-term rating on Missouri’s general obligation bonds outstanding, and its AA+ rating on the state’s appropriation-backed debt outstanding. The outlook on all ratings is stable.
S&P stated that its AAA rating is based on Missouri’s “very strong budget management framework, demonstrated by the executive branch’s high degree of expenditure flexibility to maintain budget balance; steady budget performance and revenue growth; and an overall diverse economic base, stable wealth and income levels, and recently steady employment growth.”
Additionally, Fitch Ratings affirmed Missouri’s Issuer Default Rating (IDR) and general obligation bond ratings at AAA and rated the state AA+ on both a long-term rating and unenhanced long-term rating for Missouri Board of Public Buildings Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020.
Fitch said Missouri’s AAA IDR “reflects the state’s low long-term liability burden, historically conservative financial operations and broad, diverse economy.” Fitch added that “Missouri remains well-positioned to withstand future economic downturns, given its very strong gap-closing capacity due to strong executive control over revenues and spending, and a demonstrated willingness to take timely budgetary action.”
“This is great news for the people of Missouri,” Governor Parson said. “We have faced some major challenges over the past several months, but this is another positive sign that Missouri is on the right track.”
The Board of Public Buildings met today to discuss the purchase, sale, and issuance of the Special Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series B 2020. Governor Parson, Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe, and Attorney General Eric Schmitt were in attendance.
Several races have been unofficially called following Tuesday’s elections across the Lake Area.
In Camden County, the race for the 1st district commissioner goes to the new comer James Gohagan, who will replace longtime representative Beverly Thomas. 2nd District Commissioner Don Williams will retain his position. Sheriff Tony Helms was also re-elected.
In Morgan County, Eastern Commissioner Republican Brian Lehman will face off against Democrat Schmitz, while Western Commissioner Republican Ryan Hoffa will face off against Phillips. In the Sheriff’s race, Current Republican Sheriff Norman Dills will face Democrat Mike Nienhuis (Currently acting PD in the city of Laurie).
In Miller County, 1st District Commissioner goes to Don Abbott and 2nd District Commissioner goes to Travis Lawson. Sheriff Louie Gregory did retain his position.
In Benton County, North District Commissioner Scott Harms won his position and South District Commissioner will be a battle between Democrat John Spry and Republican Larry Berry. Sheriff Eric Knox will retain his position in the county.
For the 124th State Representative, Lisa Thomas bested Benny Thomas and Luke Hagedorn.
For the District 58th State Representative, Willard Haley bested Timothy Faber.
For the US District 4, incumbent Vicky Hartzler will retain her position while Blaine Leutkemeyer will also retain his position in District 3, both for the Republican Ticket.
Current Governor Mike Parson is set to take on Democrat Nicole Galloway in November.
Parson winning the Republican nomination over Saundra McDowell.
For Lieutenant Governor, Republican Mike Kehoe will face off against Democrat Alissa Canady.
Missouri’s attorney general Republican Eric Schmidt will also face off against Democrat Rich Finneran.
In other area races..
In Pulaski County David Bassett wins the open Commission seat for the eastern district and Sheriff Jimmy Bench remains in his position.
Dallas County Fire Tax Levy passes 271 to 236.
Here’s a detailed look at the races by county:
State race information can be found here.
Video footage of city officials in Laurie going in and out of the police evidence room while the top two cops in the police department were suspended has a retired Lake Area police chief concerned.
David Slavens was chief of police in Sunrise Beach for 26 years.
It’s unclear if there was an authorized evidence technician present when the room was entered
That evidence room was entered by numerous city officials, including Mayor Alan Kimberling while former police chief Mark Black and former assistant police chief Angela Nickerson were being investigated.
After the investigation, Black was retained with a different job description while Nickerson was fired.
The city of Laurie will not give details about what started the investigation or what it was about.
A number of poll workers in Cole County have quit ahead of today’s elections.
County Clerk Steve Korsmeyer indicated that around 20 workers either retired or requested to stay home due to COVID 19.
Korsmeyer says they’ve already replaced the missing workers using a list of backups who are usually on standby for election day.
It’s Election day in the Lake area.
The polls will be open until 7PM across the four-county region.
Some of the major elections taking place today include the 124th district representative and several commission seats.
KRMS will be providing live election coverage with a special show starting at 7PM tonight.
Below are the sample ballots for each county:
Lake area residents are no closer to getting their emergency COVID 19 unemployment benefits restored.
White house Chief of Staff Mark Meadows.
He tells CBS’s face the nation that not a single republican on either side of Congress voted no to a bill allowing the $600 enhanced unemployment to be extended.
Discussions on the bill will continue today in both chambers.
Candidates for several Lake area offices taking to the debate stage on Wednesday night during the KRMS candidate forum.
For the topic of raising revenues in Camden County, current 1st district commissioner Beverly Thomas suggests a new tax.
Candidate James Gohagan who is running against Thomas in the upcoming election disagrees.
Candidates for the Camden County Commission’s 2nd district had different opinions on how to raise revenues for the community, including a tourism tax by current commissioner Don Williams.
Nathan Rinne who’s running against Williams think’s that idea will hurt lake residents.
Candidate Patrick Cochran is also running for the position, he says the lake needs more jobs, not taxes.
There are five people running for the 124th district as state representative replacing outgoing politician Rocky Miller.
For the topic of a casino coming to the lake, ideas varied…with many supporting some sort of Government control.
Benny Earl Thomas says…
Luke Hagedorn says…
Lisa Thomas says…
Duell Wayne Lauderdale says..
And Bernie Mowinski says..
You can see the full forum on our Facebook, Youtube and Vimeo channels or below:
News/Talk KRMS will be hosting a Candidate forum today (Wednesday) the 29th of July to introduce the Lake area to many running in the upcoming elections.
The forum starts at 3PM at Seven Springs Winery and will last until 7 or 8PM, depending on how long the conversation goes.
KRMS News Director Christian Blood and histroy professor Dr. Jim Pasley will be broadcasting live and conducting the program.
You can watch the show on our website, on Vimeo.com or by tuning into News/Talk KRMS on 1150AM, 97.5 or 103.3FM or streaming online.
The City of Lake Ozark is considering the idea of moving from two-year terms to four-year terms for elected officials.
Voters in the city rejected the idea in 2008.
Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski says things have changed in the city since then, and any future changes wouldn’t happen right away.
Murawski says the drawback of two-year terms is that most elected officials don’t get enough time to learn the city and the job before they have to start campaigning with few results.
He also says four-year terms make it more difficult to move on from an official who might not be meeting the demands of the people.
Hear Mayor Murawski’s full interview on the Ozarks Today below:
Additional details:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
City of Lake Ozark
7/27/2020
The City of Lake Ozark is considering moving from two-year to four-year terms for elected officials.
The final decision would be up to voters, although the board of aldermen must first approve an ordinance placing the issue on the ballot. That will be an agenda item at a future meeting.
Voters in 2008 soundly rejected the idea of expanding the terms of elected officials, but the city was in the midst of considerable turmoil at the time as the city was beginning to transition into a viable retail and economic development partner at the lake.
Since then, officials note, city government has become much more stable and is considered a respected community as the lake continues to grow.
“At the end of the day, let’s not forget the city didn’t have the resources then that it does today,” one alderman noted.
Operating a city has become far more complicated today with increased government regulations, a larger population and more businesses. As the city has grown in the last dozen years, city officials have taken a more proactive role in making sure the city’s infrastructure is safe, efficient and in compliance with state and federal regulations.
“It took me two years to figure out how city government works,” Alderman Dennis Klautzer said. “Had I not been re-elected, my first two years would have basically been for nothing other than serve my constituents. In my second two years, I felt I could contribute more because I knew the system. It’s definitely a learning process.”
Alderman agreed that four-year terms might give elected officials more opportunity to learn the ins-and-outs of city government but better serve their constituents.
Alderman Mark Maples, who served as Lake Ozark chief of police for several years, said there was considerable turnover among officials during more challenging times for the city.
“The board thought then that the only way to bring a sense of stability to the city was to lengthen terms of aldermen so there wasn’t so much turnover,” he said. “Every two years the city had significant turnover in key staff positions.”
With a stable city government now, and a board of aldermen focused on moving the city forward rather than personal agendas and infighting, officials now feel lengthening the terms of aldermen will be a long-term benefit.
“If you’re running every two years, then you’re always thinking about re-election,” Alderman Larry Giampa offered. “If we have four-year terms, aldermen have time to really concentrate on the city 100 percent and are not thinking about re-election. You’re thinking about the city. I think you can accomplish more.”
No personal gain
Four-year terms would be staggered just as two-year terms are now. The city is divided equally into three wards with two aldermen representing each ward. Three aldermen are elected every two years, and then three others two years later.
The mayor serves two years as well.
If voters approve the shift to four-year terms, the change would not take place until the next regular municipal election after the issue is approved.
Mayor Gerry Murawski noted that it’s often difficult to get people to run for elected positions.
“Maybe four-year terms would incentivize people to run for office if they knew they had time to learn the system and make a difference,” he said.
A reserve police officer in the city of Laurie is concerned about a shortage of officers after he says former chief Mark Black was forced out and former assistant chief Angela Nickerson was fired without cause.
Reserve officer Larry Deves tells KRMS News he’s concerned he’ll be fired for speaking out about the recent changes.
Deves also remains concerned over possible contaminated evidence in the police evidence room.
It follows the release of video footage of city officials in Laurie, including Mayor Alan Kimberling, entering the police evidence room numerous times with no other officers present.
Former officer Jeffrey Brownlee, who’s now working in law enforcement elsewhere in the Lake Area, quit the force after just a few months when Black and Nickerson were no longer with the police force in Laurie.
Hear the full interview with Officer Larry Deves and News Director Christian Blood from the Ozarks Today below:
Here is a look at the video from the Laurie Police Department.
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 2.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
The city of Osage Beach is searching for a new alderman in ward 1.
Current alderman Greg Massey resigned from his post on Monday.
Officials say residents living in ward 1 who are interested in serving as alderman, should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the city clerk no later than August 14th.
The person chosen will fill the seat until April 2021.
The City of Osage Beach is seeking candidates for a vacant Ward 1 alderman seat after Greg Massey resigned from his position on July 20, 2020.
Osage Beach residents living in Ward 1 that are interested in serving as an alderman to fill the remainder of the current term (expires April 2021) should submit a letter of interest and a resume to the City Clerk (email submissions will be accepted).
City Clerk, Tara Berreth
1000 City Parkway
Osage Beach, MO 65065 or email tberreth@osagebeach.org
Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements to be considered for the position:
The successful candidate will be appointed by Mayor Olivarri with the advice and consent of the Board of Aldermen to serve until the April 2021 municipal election.
The City of Osage Beach Board of Aldermen consist of six (6) members, two (2) from each ward, and each ward shall elect annually one (1) alderman who shall hold office for two (2) years.
Question may be directed to City Administrator Jeana Woods.
Alderman Needed 1
Angela Nickerson is no longer the assistant police chief in Laurie, but she’s coming forward with her take on an investigation by the city that left her fired and former police chief Mark Black retired when his job description changed.
Nickerson tells KRMS News the investigation resulted in no findings of wrongdoing on her part or former chief Black.
Laurie Mayor Alan Kimberling confirms the changes in the police department.
KRMS has received video footage of Mayor Kimberling and other city officials in the police evidence room with no officers present.
Nickerson says evidence in the room could be found to be compromised.
Hear the full interview with former Assistant Chief Angela Nickerson on the KRMS Morning Magazine with Kevin Burns and News Director Christian Blood below:
See the video below:
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 2.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
Another voice is speaking up on the shakeup within the Laurie Police Department.
Officer Jeffrey Brownlee spent about four months with the department, and the handling of former police chief Mark Black and former assistant police chief Angela Nickerson is among the reasons why.
Brownlee also tells KRMS News other reserve officers in the Laurie P.D. refused to work after former chief Black and Nickerson were suspended.
Another officer left Laurie to work in Camden County.
Brownlee says the limited workforce created long hours.
Bownlee also talks about video footage that shows Laurie Mayor Alan Kimberling and other city officials entering the police evidence room while Black and Nickerson were suspended.
Mayor Kimberling says he was looking for evidence with the City Attorney and members of the board.
The City of Laurie says Black was retained after he was investigated, but Black says his job description changed, which included shifts beginning at midnight.
Assistant chief Nickerson was fired.
Nickerson is set to be a guest during today’s (Friday) Morning Magazine show with Kevin Burns.
New video footage obtained by KRMS News might show that police evidence was compromised in the City of Laurie.
The video was taken during an investigation of former police chief Mark Black and former assistant police chief Angela Nickerson, both suspended at the time.
The video shows Laurie Mayor Alan Kimberling, and other city officials, entering the police evidence room with no police officers present.
Kimberling confirms he entered the evidence room, along with City Attorney Andrew Renken and the four city board members.
But Black tells KRMS News there’s more than one video and there were more people going into the evidence room who could have compromised some of it.
Black was retained as police chief after the investigation, but with a different job description, which led him to retire.
Nickerson tells KRMS News she was fired without cause.
Current interim police chief Mike Nienhuis had quit the department after Black says he wrote him up, but he was then rehired after Black announced his retirement.
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 2.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 1.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
Video Surveillance of the Laurie Police evidence room part 1.
This video evidence obtained by KRMS Radio shows multiple people entering and exiting the Laurie Police evidence room without a police officer there. It also shows the city officials involved changing the locks on the doors.
Posted by KRMS News on Thursday, July 23, 2020
Today is the last day to request your mail in ballots for the August Primary.
You can stop by your county clerk’s office or you can go to the Secretary of State’s website and print the application from there.
In either case, officials say you should avoid using a third-party websites to fill out those applications because it’s actually against the law.
Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft.
He tells KY 3 TV the reason for the deadline two weeks prior to the election, is so those ballots can be mailed to the voter and then mailed back in time.
If you have concerns about absentee voting or voting in person due to COVID, Ashcroft says you can vote at the county clerk’s office until the day before the election.
Laurie Police Chief Mark Black
The former police chief in Laurie is accusing city officials of conspiring to get rid of him earlier this year.
Mark Black says he was put on suspension, with pay, in May while he and former assistant police chief Angela Nickerson were investigated.
Nickerson was fired, but Black says he was retained with new conditions.
Former Laurie police chief Mark Black.
KRMS News asked Laurie mayor Alan Kimberling about the investigation that resulted in Black being retained, but Nickerson being fired.
Kimberling says the city has an interim police chief right now, but that could become permanent after the retirement of former police chief Mark Black.
Black tells KRMS News the investigation was pushed by current interim police chief Mike Nienhuis.
Black will be interviewed by Kevin Burns and Christian Blood at 9:30AM on the KRMS ‘Morning Magazine.’
Violent crime is rising in St. Louis and Kansas City, but Governor Mike Parson says it’s also a problem for smaller areas, like the Lake Area.
The Governor says the special session will begin July 27th and it will cover six specific areas.
The Governor announced Tuesday he had spoken with President Trump about St. Louis prosecutor Kimberly Gardner, the top prosecutor in St. Louis who’s threatened a couple for pulling guns on a mob of demonstrators who broke into their gated community in June.
Missouri is set to receive $5.2 million in Revolving Loan Funds through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) in the Department of Commerce, some of which is coming to the Lake Area.
Congresswoman Vicki Hartzler says the Lake of the Ozarks Council of Governments will be getting more than a half million dollars from those funds to help local leaders and businesses in Camden, Laclede, Miller and Morgan counties.
Hartzler Announces $5.2 Million Coronavirus Relief Funds for Missouri Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler (MO-04) announced that Missouri is set to receive $5.2 million in Revolving Loan Funds through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) in the Department of Commerce. Hartzler voted in support of bolstering funding levels for the program to provide assistance to small businesses impacted by the coronavirus. In Missouri’s 4th Congressional District and surrounding areas, the funds have been disbursed to:
• The Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City receiving $967,989 to provide access to capital and resources to small businesses facing coronavirus-related hardships in Jackson, Platte, Cass, and portions of Clay counties.
• Lake of the Ozarks Council of Local Governments in Camdenton will receive a $550,000 to assist local lenders and businesses impacted by the pandemic in Camden, Laclede, Miller, and Morgan counties.
• Meramec Regional Planning Commission in St. James will receive a $858,000 to support small business development in Dent, Crawford, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski, and Washington counties.
For additional information on Revolving Loan Funds, please click here. These funds, intended to provide relief to small businesses in Missouri facing negative financial pressures during the COVID-19 pandemic, were authorized by the CARES Act. The EDA was established in the 1960s to help communities throughout the country rebuild the necessary infrastructure to foster growth and help stimulate regional economies. Hartzler supported $1.5 billion of funding to the EDA under the CARES Act in March 2020.
The Eldon Board of Alderman meet tonight (Tuesday).
The meeting starts at 6PM at the Public works building on Y Road and is open to the public.
Those who cannot attend can stream the meeting live on the city’s Facebook page.
Public Works Building (Y Bldg)
1000 Highway Y
Eldon MO 65026
Governor Mike Parson
Governor Parson is signing eight new bills into law today (Monday), and one of them aims to address anti-Semitism.
The Anti-Discrimination Against Isreal Act will make it illegal to sign contracts with a company unless it certifies it will not boycott goods or services from the State of Isreal.
Other bills address the protection of children, victims of sexual offenses, controlled substances, retirement and health care.
Today, Governor Mike Parson signed nine pieces of legislation into law, concluding bill signings for the 2020 legislative session.
“This year’s legislative session was very challenging for obvious reasons,” Governor Parson said. “However, the General Assembly pushed through these challenges and continued to work for the people of Missouri. We appreciate their efforts to get several important pieces of legislation across the finish line despite the unprecedented circumstances of COVID-19.”
The remaining bills signed include HB 1963, HB 1386, HB 1387, SB 644, SB 656, HB 1330, SB 676, SB 551, and HB 1711.
HB 1414 – Protection of Children
Modifies several provisions relating to child protection, including homeless youth benefits, protection of foster children, child care facility definitions and background checks, child protection for military families, foster care reform, foster parent rights, and substance abuse treatment waivers.
SB 653 – Protection of Children
Modifies laws related to the protection of children, including foster care case management, Children’s Division records, temporary alternative placement agreements, risk assessments for child abuse or neglect, foster parents, information exchange for child placement, and the appearance of certain children in courts.
SB 569 – Victims of Sexual Offenses
Modifies procedures for tracking evidentiary collection kits and establishes the Justice for Survivors Act, the Sexual Assault Survivors’ Bill of Rights, and the Missouri Rights of Victims of Sexual Assault Task Force.
HB 1896 – Controlled Substances
Updates the schedule of controlled substances in Missouri to mirror the most recent updates to the schedules in the Federal Register.
HB 1467 – Retirement
Modifies provisions relating to public employment retirement systems, including the Local Government Employees Retirement System, state employee retirement systems, Missouri State Employees Retirement System, and Public School Retirement System.
SB 739 – Anti-Discrimination Against Israel Act
Creates the Anti-Discrimination Against Israel Act prohibiting public entities from entering into certain contracts with a company unless the company certifies that they will not boycott goods or services from the State of Israel.
SB 913 – Peer Review for Designed Professionals
Repeals the expiration of provisions relating to the peer review process for architects, landscape architects, professional land surveyors, and professional engineers.
HB 1682 – Health Care
Establishes the Long-Term Care Dignity Act and modifies provisions relating to various health care topics, including state settled opioid causes of action, breast cancer screening insurance, and COVID-19 testing.
U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill of Missouri will head up a Senate hearing regarding the militarization of police departments following the recent events in Ferguson. The hearing will focus on programs that enable police departments to acquire military equipment. Ferguson and St. Louis County police have been criticized for responding to protests wearing desert camouflage and holding military grade weapons.
The State Supreme Court ruled Friday that the wording cannot be changed just three weeks before Missouri’s primary election on a ballot measure asking voters to declare in the State Constitution that the right to bear arms is “unalienable”. The court dismissed an appeal by opponents of the gun measure, saying a state law forbids the court from making changes to ballot measures within six weeks of an election. The ruling means the wording will not be changed on proposed Constitutional Amendment 5, which will go before voters on Aug. 5. Opponents argue that the ballot wording failed to mention other significant changes, including that gun-control measures would become subject to tougher legal scrutiny and that a current constitutional provision allowing restrictions on concealed guns would be repealed. Cole County Circuit Judge Jon Beetem dismissed the legal challenge on July 1. In its ruling Friday, the Supreme Court agreed it was bound by that law and dismissed the appeal.
Lake area workers who are used to being laid off after the summer season may have another option. Gov. Jay Nixon has signed legislation preserving a program that encourages businesses to place employees on part-time status instead of laying them off. The measure enacted Friday is intended to keep Missouri in compliance with new federal requirements for the shared work program. Nixon said about 335 employers and more than 21,000 people currently participate in the program. It allows businesses to split working hours among a group of employees as an alternative to laying some of them off. In exchange, the employees’ incomes are supplemented with reduced amounts of unemployment benefits. Missouri’s program had to be revised to match federal guidelines, or else it would have ended in August. Business groups supported the legislation, which could allow Missouri to get an additional $2.5 million in federal funds.
Secretary of State Jason Kander announced Friday ballot measures on gun rights, police searches and the lottery have been certified for the august ballot. The proposals would each amend the Missouri Constitution if a majority of voters approve. One of the measures, Constitutional Amendment 5, would strengthen gun rights in Missouri. It would make the right to bear arms an “unalienable right” and make the state government “obligated to uphold that right”. A second measure, Constitutional Amendment 9, would add electronic communications and data to the list of information secure from unreasonable search and seizure. People, homes, papers and their effects are already protected. The last measure, Constitutional Amendment 8, proposes a slight shift in lottery ticket revenue to benefit projects and services related to veterans.
Lake area public schools will not lose as much funding next year as Gov. Jay Nixon announced Friday that he will veto legislation that would have diverted public, taxpayer dollars away from Missouri’s public schools and given that money to private schools without any accountability to voters. The governor said that this failed attempt to fix the current school transfer law would, in fact, result in further disruption for students in struggling school districts by eliminating the requirement that unaccredited school districts pay for transportation costs. Senate Bill 493 would eliminate the requirement that unaccredited districts pay for the transportation costs of students. This provision would negatively impact the hundreds of students and families who have already transferred to another school district with an understanding that their transportation costs would be paid.
School safety procedures may soon change at the lake after Missouri lawmakers gave final approval to legislation that could allow specially trained teachers and other school personnel to carry concealed weapons. Supporters say the measure would protect schools from intruders, but opponents say it could compromise safety by having firearms in classrooms. The bill sent to Democratic Gov. Jay Nixon on Friday would also lower the minimum age required to get a concealed weapons permit from 21 to 19. The house voted 111-28 in favor of the bill. It cleared the senate a day earlier.
Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler and the House Armed Services Committee have approved the FY15 National Defense Authorization Act. One of the key provisions impacting our national security and Missourians is the support for an A-10 warthog fleet. The department of defense proposed the divestment of the A-10 airframe but this legislation includes an amendment that Congresswoman Hartzler co-sponsored, that will fully fund the maintenance, operation, and upgrading of the fleet. Hartzler told us this is an important issue here at the lake and she considered residents input.
The FY15 NDAA will now go before the full house for a vote.
Missouri’s Republican-led House has passed legislation setting the state’s 2016 Presidential Primary for March 15. The House sent the bill to the Senate Thursday on a 97-48 vote. Missouri previously held its party primary in February, but faced losing some delegates to the 2016 Republican Convention because of new party rules. Sponsoring Rep. Tony Dugger says the bill ensures Missouri will be relevant in selecting the 2016 presidential nominee. Opponents say holding the primary in April when municipal elections take place would save money. States that hold primaries before the March 15 date must also award delegates proportionally, not on a winner take all basis.