MRPC holds forum with federal legislator representatives 

ST. JAMES ­–­ The Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) discussed current issues pertaining to the Meramec Region with representatives of federal legislators during its regular board meeting Jan. 12, 2012.

Melanie Bell, representing Rep. Jo Ann Emerson; Dan Engemann, representing Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer; Ray Bozarth, representing Sen. Roy Blunt; and Chris Hann, representing Sen. Claire McCaskill, attended the meeting to discuss items of interest with the board. Rep. Keith Frederick (District 149) also attended for discussion.

MRPC Chairman Russell Scheulen welcomed the representatives and asked each to share items of interest.

Bell noted after hearing word of military defense cuts, Rep. Emerson has made an effort to keep certain militarization services at Fort Leonard Wood.

“Jo Ann has always been very supportive of Fort Leonard Wood,” Bell said. . . . (more)

Melanie Bell, representing Rep. Jo Ann Emerson, and Dan Engemann, representing Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer, visited with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission board for a discussion forum at its meeting Jan. 12, 2012.

TAC committee members prioritize regional transportation needs. Committee members from the left are Jim Kleffner of Maries County, Robert Schaffer of Crawford County, Richard Huse of Maries County (partially hidden), Elmer Senevey of Osage County and John Petersen of Phelps County.

TAC committee members discussed transportation priorities at the county levels, before the regional prioritization effort. Here TAC members Ron Jost and John Kamler discuss Gasconade County needs while Elmer Senevey and Dave Dudenhoeffer review Osage County needs.

MRPC talks Missouri redistricting with local legislators

ST. JAMES ­–­ Redistricting was the main topic of discussion as the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) met with area legislators during its regular board meeting Dec. 8.

Sen. Dr. Dan Brown (District 16) and Rep. Tom Loehner (District 112) attended the meeting to discuss items of interest with the board. MRPC staff had shared the recently approved redistricting plan that reshapes all 34 Senate districts and 163 House districts with board members.  

The redistricting plan, handled by the Missouri Appellate Apportionment Commission, redraws the legislative and congressional district lines by following data from the U.S. Census. In this redistricting, the lines were redrawn to create districts that were nearly equal in population, based on the 2010 Census.

Both Sen. Brown and Rep. Loehner voiced concerns with the changing districts. Loehner noted most of the counties, as well as school districts, have been split drastically for new representation. . . . (more)

Sen. Dr. Dan Brown, left, and Rep. Tom Loehner visited with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission board for a discussion forum at its meeting Dec. 8.

Belle Elementary School in the Maries R-2 School District received a new recycled-tire playground surface through a grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The new smooth play surface, which used over 1,000 shredded tires, replaced deteriorating woodchips. Meramec Regional Planning Commission wrote the grant, while Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District lent its support by providing educational materials for students. For example, the district distributed the brochure “Where Can I Dispose of? A Guide to Recycling and Disposal Opportunities in the Ozark Rivers District” to all elementary and middle school students. The Maries County R-2 PTO also helped with awareness and distribution of the educational information.

A region-wide special waste collection, held Oct. 1, 2011 in Maries County, included 128 pieces of electronic waste, 94 tires and 17 appliances. The special waste collection—which combined electronics, tires and appliances into one recycling event—was a partnership effort among the Maries County Commission, the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Meramec Regional Planning Commission.

Steelville Elementary students tour Rolla Recycling Center
Learn about solid waste issues

Approximately 80 second-grade students at Steelville Elementary School recently toured the Rolla Recycling Center on Dec. 2, 2011. The tour was funded by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District through a USDA Awareness to Action grant. The program strives to educate students and adults on recycling and proper disposal of solid waste.

The local solid waste district still has funds to assist with educational tours for schools. For more information, contact Meramec Regional Planning Commission at 573-265-2993 or email nongluk@meramecregion.org.

Second-grade students from Steelville Elementary School toured the Rolla Recycling Center on Dec. 2. Recycled cardboard, paper and plastic can be seen in the background.

MRCF board reviews grant making guidelines
Board establishes capacity building fund

ST. JAMES ­­– The Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) defined goals for grant making and the application process at its Dec. 7 meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC).

Board President Laura Antolak noted MRCF has approximately $1,400 available for grant making purposes.

“What we want to do is try to maximize that money,” Antolak said.

Antolak discussed sample grant application forms provided by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) including a cover letter, application and follow-up report. . . . (more)

The Meramec Regional Community Foundation board members. Back row from left: Bonnie Prigge, MRPC; Dr. Donald Claycomb, Osage County; Jim Grebing, MRPC; Vicki Nelson, Maries County; Wayne Morgan,Pulaski County; Doug Dunlap, Gasconade County; and David Dittman, Dent County. Front row from left: Leo Dickey, Washington County; Laura Antolak, MRCF chairman, and Mardy Leathers, MRCF secretary/treasurer, Crawford County. Not pictured: Wayne Parry, MRCF vice chairman, Phelps County.

Regional small businesses, lenders attend SBA workshop at MRPC

ST. JAMES—Regional small businesses and lenders participated in a Small Business Administration workshop featuring the SBA 504 loan program and international trade opportunities Nov. 30, 2011, at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) in St. James.

Information was provided on exporting opportunities for new businesses, new SBA regulations effective Oct. 1, 2011 and the new refinance program offered by SBA. . . . (more)

Above: Ann Pardalos, Missouri Department of Economic Development – International Trade & Investment, far left, highlighted services offered to small businesses, opportunities in exporting and the MO.STEP=UP program.

Left: Bob Newman, U.S. Small Business Administration, provided an overview of the SBA during the workshop.

Roadway fatalities increasing in Meramec Region
Fifty-one lives lost in eight counties

While the roadway fatality rate is consistently declining statewide, that number is increasing in the Meramec Region.

Fifty-one people have lost their lives on roadways in the Meramec Region’s counties of Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington from Jan. 1 to Dec. 3. That’s a 42 percent increase compared to the same time period in 2010 with a total of 36 fatalities for the region. Every Meramec county has been impacted by a fatality.
 
Of those 51 fatalities this year at least eight – some 16 percent – involved drinking and driving. One fatality was recorded as unknown for drinking.
 
Also, within the 51 fatalities recorded, 30 persons – nearly 60 percent – were not wearing seat belts, and two were ejected. Seven fatalities were recorded as unknown for wearing safety devices. . . . (more)

Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District honors leaders in recycling, solid waste efforts  

ST. JAMES—The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District honored several individuals and one organization for their commitment to recycling and waste management at its Nov. 29, 2011, annual meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission in St. James.  Each year, the solid waste management district recognizes a few individuals who are helping the district to meet its goal of reducing solid waste by 40 percent and showcasing them as examples to the regional community. . . . (more)

Those honored by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste District for their work to recycle and protect the environment were: (Front row) Ginny Pherigo of St. James, Julie Wilson of Rolla, Scott Murrell, Ozark Rivers chairman, and Jill Steckelberg of Hermann; (Back row) Danny Pherigo of St. James, Terry and Brenda Williams of Rolla, Craig French of Fort Leonard Wood, Dwight Warnke of Rolla, and Christopher Newcom of Cuba.

Vienna’s Cloyde named MRPC Employee of the Year

Elaine Cloyde of Vienna was honored as Meramec Regional Planning Commission’s Employee of the Year during its 2011 Annual Dinner, held Nov. 10, 2011, at the Knights of Columbus’ Visitation Hall in Vienna. Cloyde, housing coordinator for the Phelps County PHA, was selected as employee of the year by MRPC staff. Cloyde has been employed by MRPC for 23 years and helps residents of the Meramec Region obtain safe and affordable housing and works with 217 families. She is responsible for all housing applications. MRPC Chairman Russell Scheulen presented Cloyde with the award.

MRPC honors Murdie with 30-year service award

Teresa Murdie of Vichy was honored for 30 years of service to the Meramec Regional Planning Commission during its 2011 Annual Dinner, held Nov. 10, 2011, at the Knights of Columbus’ Visitation Hall in Vienna. Murdie currently serves as a housing inspector/coordinator for the Phelps County PHA. She has spent the majority of her career in the housing department as the Washington County coordinator and as an inspector. Murdie also assists residents in Phelps and Dent counties. Murdie travels twice a month to the satellite office in Potosi where she is responsible for all aspects of applications, briefings and re-certifications for clients and property owners. MRPC Chairman Russell Scheulen presented Murdie with her service award.

James Coffman receives MRPC’s highest volunteer award
Additional 12 volunteers, including three youth, and one organization honored

James Coffman of Salem was honored and surprised with the Meramec Regional Planning Commission’s highest volunteer award—the Eugene E. Northern award—during its 2011 Annual Dinner, held Nov. 10, 2011, at the Knights of Columbus’ Visitation Hall in Vienna.
 
Each year, MRPC honors residents from Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties who have exhibited outstanding voluntarism and community service. MRPC also presents its highest honor, its annual Eugene E. Northern Award, to a volunteer who has demonstrated lifelong community service. Northern, a former Rolla mayor, was a Missouri Circuit judge that was dedicated to his community and went beyond the call of duty.

“Mr. Coffman is an added asset to the city and was instrumental in getting the Telecommunications Resource Center into Salem. The city was able to purchase that building because of him, and we are so thankful for that,” said MRPC Vice Chairman and Mayor of Salem Gary Brown in making the announcement. . . . (more)

Those volunteers honored by MRPC during its 2011 Annual Dinner included back row from left, James Coffman of Salem, James Decker of Bland, Jacob Kettner of Salem, Nick Barrack of Rolla and Matt Bramel of Doolittle. Front row from left are Debby Bust, representing the Washington County Community Partnership, Patsy Luebbert of Westphalia, Bernard and Jan Wenzel of Meta, Lauren Wieberg of Vienna and Jay Copeland of Owensville. Not pictured: Larry Salveter of Crocker, Anne Springer of Bourbon and Richard Huse of Belle.

MRPC highlights DNR’s Brownfields Program resources
Jones, Leathers explain options to MRPC board 

ST. JAMES ­–­ The Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) discussed the advantages of using the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Brownfields/Voluntary Cleanup Program for property redevelopment.

During MRPC’s regular board meeting Oct. 13, 2011, Catherine Jones, outreach coordinator for DNR Brownfields/Voluntary Cleanup Program, discussed the programs offered to help redevelop properties that may be contaminated with hazardous materials.

Jones explained brownfields are sites where there is a known or suspected contamination of hazardous materials. Examples of such properties could include gas stations, dry cleaners and production facilities.

DNR can provide a Phase I and Phase II property assessment through the Brownfields Program at no charge at the request of a local government. The property owner or potential buyer submits a application, which includes a consent-for-access agreement signed by the property owner. DNR then selects an environmental contractor to perform the assessment. . . . (more)

Catherine Jones, outreach coordinator for the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Brownfields/Voluntary Cleanup Program, explained the benefits of using the Brownfields Program as the initial step for cleaning up properties with the purpose of redevelopment.

TAC, MoDOT plan for long-range transportation needs
Dodd, Petersen, Kleffner elected as officers

ST. JAMES—The Meramec Region Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) elected officers and discussed Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) long-range transportation plan at its meeting Oct. 13 at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC).

The Nominating Committee presented the following slate of officers, which were approved by the TAC: Donald Dodd, of Salem, as chairman, John Petersen, of Rolla, as vice chairman, and James Kleffner, of Brinktown as secretary.

Troy Pinkerton, long-range transportation planning coordinator, presented information on MoDOT’s development of its long-range transportation plan. . . . (more)

Troy Pinkerton, MoDOT long-range transportation planning coordinator, explained MoDOT’s long-range transportation plan includes current infrastructure, a needs list, and funding options.

MRCF welcomes Dunlap as Gasconade County director
Board inspired by Seymour’s community foundation

ST. JAMES – The Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) approved Doug Dunlap to be its Gasconade County representative at its October board meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC).

Doug Dunlap of Owensville has been approved to serve as the Gasconade County representative for the Meramec Regional Community Foundation.

Homeland Security Committee recommends, state approves $67,500 in grants
Eight agencies to share funds

ST. JAMES— The State Homeland Security Advisory Committee (HSAC) approved eight local agencies for funding, totaling $67,552.93 for the FY08 State Homeland Security Reallocation Grant.

The Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee, which is comprised of representatives from Crawford, Dent, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Laclede counties, recommended that reallocated 2008 grant monies be awarded to FY 2010 unfunded grant applicant projects, rather than accept new grant applications. . . . (more)

Belle Elementary awarded $20,000 grant for recycled tire playground surface
New surface will increase safety; provide education opportunity for students

BELLE— Belle Elementary in the Maries County R-2 School District has been awarded a $20,000 grant through the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for a recycled
tire surface to upgrade one of its playground areas for its 357 students.

The grant was awarded in July through DNR’s Scrap Tire and Illegal Dumping Unit. Revenue for such projects is generated to the Scrap Tire Subaccount through a $.50 fee collected on the sale of new tires. Funds are allocated up to 50 percent for enforcement, permitting and inspection, up to 45 percent for grants and up to 5 percent for education. (more)

More Photos

The new recycled-tire playground surface at Belle Elementary is ready for students to use, thanks to a grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. The new smooth play surface, which used over 1,000 shredded tires, replaces deteriorating woodchips.

MRCF focuses on regional outreach
Parry, Leathers elected to serve; CFO’s Leeth presents to board  

ST. JAMES – The Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) elected officers and heard a presentation from Julie Leeth, executive vice president of Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), at its September board meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC).

Wayne Parry of Phelps County was elected to serve as vice chair of MRCF, a position formerly held by Russell Scheulen of Osage County.

Mardy Leathers of Crawford County was elected to serve as treasurer. Leathers is also serving as secretary, a position formerly held by Richard Cavender, former executive director of MRPC.

Board members discussed scheduling meetings throughout the Meramec Region to better educate groups on the foundation and its activities. . . . (more)

Julie Leeth, executive vice president of Community Foundation of the Ozarks, visited with Meramec Regional Community Foundation board members to provide tips for success in the region.

Meramec Regional Community Foundation partners with Hope Alliance of Missouri  

ST. JAMES – The Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) has established a partnership with Hope Alliance of Missouri that will strengthen both organizations’ roles in providing resources to meet the needs of the Meramec Region.

The partnership was discussed at MRCF’s August board meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). The agreement will establish a Capacity Building Fund with MRCF through the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO). . . . (more)

Faith Barnes, Hope Alliance of Missouri executive director, left, and Laura Antolak, MRCF chairman, sign documents to establish the agencies’ partnership.

Broadband Regional Technology Planning Team discusses survey data
Members analyze, prioritize regional results for state plan

ST. JAMES – In an effort to develop a statewide needs assessment for broadband Internet service in Missouri, members of the Broadband Regional Technology Planning Team reported data collected from surveys across the Meramec Region.

A total of 985 surveys were completed in the Meramec Region as part of the Missouri BroadbandNow project, including 470 residential surveys and 515 sector surveys.

Members of the planning team gathered Aug. 9 at Meramec Regional Planning Commission to review the results of the survey data. . . . (more)

Members of the Regional Technology Planning Team prioritized broadband issues for the Meramec Region by using dots to cast a vote next to each issue of importance.

City of Owensville awarded $566,389 CDBG for industrial park infrastructure upgrades

RR Donnelley expansion secures street grant to accommodate heavier truck traffic

OWENSVILLE— On Aug. 22 Gov. Jay Nixon announced a $566,389 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) awarded to the city of Owensville for necessary upgrades to its industrial park roadways, allowing for the expansion of RR Donnelley.

“This is really good news for Owensville and the entire region,” Nixon said while addressing employees of RR Donnelley and community leaders. . . . (more)

Gov. Jay Nixon toured RR Donnelley’s manufacturing facility in Owensville on Aug. 22 before announcing the CDBG project and facility expansion.

Meramec Region receives $500,000 in Safe Routes to School grants
Potosi, St. James plan transportation improvements for students  

The Missouri Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) advisory committee has awarded 16 grants totaling $3.4 million including nearly $500,000 to communities in the Meramec Region. . . . (more)

City of Rolla awarded $296,760 CDBG for downtown improvement project
2 blighted lots to be transformed into paved, public parking areas

ROLLA—Parking issues in downtown Rolla should soon be assuaged with a $296,760 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) awarded July 29 through the Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED). . . . (more)

Rehab project nears completion for Leasburg Village Apartments’ residents
32 units upgraded through $319,342 USDA loan  

LEASBURG—The residents of Leasburg Village Apartments in Leasburg, Mo. are awaiting the completion of a rehabilitation project that has increased energy efficiency and modernized the complex. . . . (more)

Meramec Regional Community Foundation elects board members  

ST. JAMES – Vicki Nelson of Maries County and Dr. Don Claycomb of Osage County were elected to serve on the Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF) board at its July 6 meeting at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) in St. James. . . . (more)

Solid Waste District elects officers for 2011-12 fiscal year
Council donates $5,000 to help rebuild Joplin playgrounds  

ST. JAMES— Scott Murrell of Fort Leonard Wood was re-elected chairman of the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District as the group elected officers and selected city representatives for the executive board at its meeting June 28 at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). . . . (more)

Phelps County Public Housing Agency officers elected
PHA budget approved for FY 2011-12

ST. JAMES—The Phelps County Public Housing Agency (PHA) elected its officers for the 2011-12 fiscal year at its meeting May 12 at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). . . . (more)

Irondale awarded $500,000 CDBG for water system improvements
445 residents will benefit from improved drinking water

IRONDALE—Within two years, some 445 residents of the City of Irondale in Washington County should be drinking safer water, thanks to grants and loans totaling some $2.1 million. . . . (more)

19 local leaders attend elected officials workshop at MRPC  

ST. JAMES—When the election is over and the successful candidates take office, some realize that local government is more complex than realized or anticipated—especially when it comes to responsibilities. To help newly elected officials begin to understand some of those responsibilities—and to help refresh veteran officials—the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC), in cooperation with the Missouri Municipal League (MML), hosted its Annual Elected Officials Workshop on June 29 at MRPC's St. James office. . . . (more)

MRPC Board Adopts Largest Budget in 42 Years
Brackhahn elected as at-large representative for seniors  

ST. JAMES – Meramec Regional Planning Commission’s (MRPC) board approved the largest budget in its 42-year history during its June 9 meeting. The FY 2011-12 budget projects revenues at $2.8 million and expenses at $2.77 million, anticipating a profit of $32,800. The fiscal year runs July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012. . . . (more)

Executive Director Richard Cavender Retires After 32 Years of Service to MRPC

ST. JAMES – Richard Cavender feels fortunate to have found a career that he feels passionate about. On June 30, 2011, Cavender will leave the helm of Meramec Regional Planning Commission where he has served the past 32 years as executive director. . . . (more) (photo)

MRB Corporation Elects 2011-12 Slate of Officers  

ST. JAMES – Doolittle Mayor Paul Smith was re-elected president of the Meramec Regional Building (MRB) Corporation at its meeting June 9 at the Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). . . . (more)

Cuba Special Waste Collection Nets 34 Appliances, 800 Pieces of Electronic Waste
59 cars served

More than 800 pieces of electronics were diverted from local landfills on May 14 when area residents participated in a region-wide special waste collection in Cuba. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., some 59 cars dropped off unwanted or worn out items, including 89 scanners, 125 desktop personal computers and 219 computer monitors. When the numbers were tallied, 9,700 pounds of electronics waste and appliances had been diverted from landfills and recycled. The collection was held at Hood Park on Hood Drive, in Cuba.. . . (more)

Rolla Special Waste Collection Nets 66 Appliances, 497 Pieces of Electronic Waste
175 cars served  

April 23 was a rainy day, but that didn’t stop area residents from participating in a region-wide special waste collection. From 8 a.m. to noon, some 175 cars dropped off unwanted or worn out items, including 85 computer monitors, 66 desk top personal computers and 107 televisions. When the numbers were tallied, 53,000 pounds of electronics waste and appliances had been diverted from landfills and recycled. The collection was held at the Brewer Science parking lot in Hy-Point Industrial Park, in Rolla. . . . (more)

MRPC Board Hears MODOT’s Restructuring Proposal
Asks highway commission to delay decision for more study  

ST. JAMES – The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has been emphasizing the necessity of infrastructure for the state’s development and has proposed a five-year restructuring plan for MoDOT’s operation to allow more funds to be invested in highway and bridge infrastructure. . . . (more)

Contractors Needed For Home Renovation Projects Rolla, Region
Some $2.3 Million in Housing Renovation Planned in Meramec Region

Homeowners and contractors are needed for housing renovation projects beginning soon in the Meramec Region, announced Byron Baker, president of the Meramec Community Development Corp. Some $340,000 will be invested in housing improvements, and some 15 homes are expected to be improved. . . . (more)

Flooded Phelps County Property Owners Need County Floodplain Permit
Before Repairing, Rebuilding
MRPC serves as Phelps County’s floodplain administrator

PHELPS COUNTY – Some 50 property owners in potential flood areas near Jerome were mailed information on Friday, making them aware of Phelps County’s floodplain ordinance that requires a flood development permit before construction, renovation and repairs can be made, said Presiding Commissioner Randy Verkamp. This also includes rehab work to homes that have been flooded. . . . (more)

Transportation Committee Honors Schwartze, Thanks Him for Work in Region

Meramec Regional Planning Commission’s Transportation Advisory Committee, during its April 14 meeting, honored Roger Schwartze, District 5 engineer with the Missouri Department of Transportation, who is retiring after 34 years with the state. District 5 includes Gasconade, Maries and Osage counties. The TAC honored Schwartze with cake, depicting Highways 63 and 50, long-term priorities of the MRPC TAC. In his remarks to the TAC, he expressed his appreciation in working the MRPC. “You all have always been the shining star on how you do things right,” Schwartze commented. Upon his retirement, Schwartze will settle on the family farm near Argyle in Maries County. Here, MRPC Executive Director Richard Cavender, left, presents the cake to Schwartze. Click to see photo.

Schwartze Re-Elected to Chair Maries County EEZ
Annual meeting held March 17, 2011

Ray Schwartze, Maries County presiding commissioner, was selected to serve another term as chairman of the Maries County Enhanced Enterprise Zone during its first annual meeting March 17. . . . (more)

Baker Re-Elected to Chair of Osage County EEZ; Luker to Head Chamois EEZ
Annual meetings held March 17, 2011

Byron Baker, a Linn banker, was selected to serve another term as chairman of the Osage County Enhanced Enterprise Zone while David Luker of Chamois will head the Chamois Area Enhanced Enterprise Zone. Both groups held their annual meetings March 17. . . . (more)

Lairmore Re-Elected to Chair Gasconade County EEZ
Annual meeting held March 17, 2011

Jerry Lairmore, Gasconade County associate commissioner, was selected to serve another term as chairman of the Gasconade County Enhanced Enterprise Zone during its first annual meeting March 17. . . . (more)

Protect Your Home from Flood Damages
Third in a Series

PHELPS COUNTY– Anyone who has experienced flooding may have had to clean out basements filled with sewage and water, torn out wet drywall and carpeting, or replaced water heaters and furnaces. While it is hoped that this year’s wet weather is over, it is not too early to prepare for the next downpour. The following inexpensive mitigation measures may make these damages a thing of the past.. . . (more)

Missouri Floods are Costly for Those Caught Unprepared
Flood insurance can cushion the blow  
Second in a series

PHELPS COUNTY–Major flooding in Missouri can occur at any time of the year and cause millions of dollars of damage over a wide area. “Flood insurance helps businesses and private citizens recover after a flood,” said Phelps County Presiding Commissioner Randy Verkamp. . . . (more)

Thinking About a Construction or Renovation Project in Phelps County?
You May Need a Floodplain Development Permit
First of a Three-Part Series

PHELPS COUNTY – Phelps County does not have a building codes program that requires a permit. However, you may need a floodplain development permit, if you are planning construction or substantial improvements to a structure located in a floodplain within Phelps County, said Presiding Commissioner Randy Verkamp. This also includes rehab work to homes that have been flooded.. . . (more)

Hayes Elected as Chairman of GVEZ
EEZs to hold annual meetings March 17  

VIENNA—Mark Hayes of Vienna was elected chairman of the Gasconade Valley Enterprise Zone at its January reorganization meeting Jan. 27 in Vienna. Hayes, a banker with the Maries County Bank, had previous served as vice president. He replaces Byron Baker, who had served three years as chairman, the maximum allowed under GVEZ bylaws. . . . (more)

MRPC Executive Director Announces Retirement
Board promotes assistant director, approves audit

ST. JAMES— After 32 years as executive director of Meramec Regional Planning Commission, Richard Cavender has decided to retire, effective June 30, 2011. He announced his resignation during the MRPC board’s Dec. 12 meeting in St. James. Cavender joined MRPC in 1979, after having served 10 years with the Mid-America Regional Council in Kansas City. The organization was only 10 years old, and Cavender was its second director. “I feel fortunate to have found a career that I am passionate about, Cavender said Monday.. . . (more)

LaJoie Named Chairman of Homeland Security Committee

ST. JAMES— George LaJoie, the EMS representative to the Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee was named chairman of the HSOC during its Oct. 28 annual meeting in St. James. LaJoie had previously served as vice chair and is employed by Air Evac and is headquartered at Salem. . . . (more)

Maries County Takes Possession of Generators

Maries County recently received two new Generac generators through the Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee grant program. Maries County Emergency Management Director Ken Ramsey made the grant request, which was valued at $9,670. Here, Ramsey (far right) looks over one of the generators with county road department employees. The Region I HSOC will be selecting the 2010 grant recipients in mid December. Meramec Regional Planning Commission is the HSOC’s fiscal agent and handles all procurement, once the HSOC determines grant recipients.

Meramec Foundation Names Board Members

The new Meramec Regional Community Foundation has named the inaugural board members who will represent its eight-county area in central Missouri. The Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, will serve Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties outside of any existing CFO affiliate areas.. . . (more)

Homeland Security Committee Recommends, State Approves $317,000 in Grants
13 agencies to share funds

ST. JAMES—The competition for homeland security grant dollars in 2010 was tough. Some $305,000 were available, and some 23 agencies submitted over $800,000 in requests. It was not quite as bad as in 2008 when the requests topped $1.6 million. With some 2007 grant dollars unused, the Region I Homeland Security Oversight Committee was able to recommend 13 agencies for funding, at a total cost of $317,203. The State Homeland Security Advisory Committee (HSAC) approved those recommendations recently, making the awards official. . . . (more)

First Community National Bank Donates $10,000 to Regional Loan Fund  

ST. JAMES—First Community National Bank and the Perkins Family recently donated $10,000 to Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC) and Meramec Regional Development Corporation (MRDC) to leverage additional funds for small business loans. . . . (more)

First Community National Bank and the Perkins Family recently donated $10,000 to Meramec Regional Planning Commission and Meramec Regional Development Corporation to recapitalize their Intermediary Relending Program. On hand for the check presentation was, from left, Connie Willman of MRPC, Todd Abolt of First Community National Bank, Mark Perkins of First Community Bank, Richard Cavender of MRPC, Scott Perkins of First Community National Bank and Bonnie Prigge of MRPC.

Community Foundation Welcomes 42nd Affiliate

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks welcomes the Meramec Regional Community Foundation as its 42 nd affiliate across central and southern Missouri and the first collaboration with an existing regional planning commission to create a charitable foundation. . . . (more)

Enhanced Enterprise Zone Approved for Osage County

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced approval of Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) designation for Osage County. This designation, signed May 26, 2010, will allow county officials to continue to move forward with economic development efforts. Osage County becomes the 84 th zone in the state. . . . (more)

Solid Waste District Distributes Alcoa Recycling Bins to Eight Schools

ST. JAMES— The Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District has distributed some 85 paper recycling bins to schools in the seven-county district. The bins were made available to the solid waste district for the past two years by the Missouri Recycling Association through a grant from Alcoa, In. Letters were sent to schools in Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties and were distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. “The only requirement is that the recipient track the volume of materials recycled with the bins and provide a report at the end of the year,” said Tammy Snodgrass, environmental programs manager for Meramec Regional Planning Commission. MRPC serves as the program administrator for the Ozark Rivers District. . . . (more) Left: Tammy Snodgrass, MRPC Environmental Programs Manager displays the recycle bins.

Enhanced Enterprise Zone Approved for Maries County

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced approval of Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) designation for Maries County. This designation, signed May 10, 2010, will allow county officials to continue to move forward with economic development efforts. Maries County becomes the 80 th zone in the state. . . . (more)

Bourbon First Graders Tour Rolla Recycling Center
Learn about solid waste issues

Rolla High School Tour Rolla Recycling Center, Transfer Station
Learn about solid waste issues

Over 100 students in Dwight Warnke’s Biology II classes at Rolla High School recently toured the Rolla Recycling Center and Phelps County Transfer Station. The tour was funded by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District through a USDA Awareness to Action grant. The program strives to educate students and adults about solid waste issues and asks them to take action to address environmental issues, like illegal dumping. . . . (more)

Marcia Mayo of the Rolla Recycling Center discusses recycling with Rolla High School students during a tour of the facility. Baled plastics can be seen in the background.	Brady Wilson, director of the Rolla Environmental Services Department, explains how a transfer station operates to Rolla High School students during a tour of the Phelps County Transfer Station.

Sullivan High School Students Tour Landfill
Learn about solid waste issues

Thirty-eight Sullivan High School students—along with teacher Charlotte Parnell—recently toured the IESI Timber Ridge Landfill at Richwoods. The tour was funded by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District through a USDA Awareness to Action grant. The program strives to educate students and adults about solid waste issues and asks them to take action to address environmental issues, like illegal dumping. The local solid waste district still has funds to assist with educational tours for schools. For more information, contact MRPC at 573-265-2993 or email nongluk@meramecregion.org. . . . (more)

Kingston K-14 Ninth Graders Tour Transfer Station
Learn about solid waste issues

Teachers Elizabeth Dyer and Alex McCaul and 44 ninth graders from Kingston K-14 recently toured the Rolla Recycling Center and Phelps County Transfer Station. The tour was funded by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District through a USDA Awareness to Action grant. The program strives to educate students and adults about solid waste issues and asks them to take action to address environmental issues, like illegal dumping. Earlier in the year, the Kingston ninth graders participated in a virtual tour of single stream recycling provided by Gary Gilliam of Resource Management. Gilliam is also an Ozark Rivers board member. The local solid waste district still has funds to assist with educational tours for schools. For more information, contact MRPC at 573-265-2993 or email nongluk@meramecregion.org. . . . (more)

Freedom Elementary Third Graders Tour Landfill
Learn about solid waste issues

Teacher Amy Schultz and 26 third graders from Freedom Elementary in Waynesville recently toured the Prairie Valley Landfill near Cuba. The tour was funded by the Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District through a USDA Awareness to Action grant. The program strives to educate students and adults about solid waste issues and asks them to take action to address environmental issues, like illegal dumping. The local solid waste district still has funds to assist with educational tours for schools. For more information, contact MRPC at 573-265-2993 or email nongluk@meramecregion.org. . . . (more)

Renovations Completed on Owensville Senior Citizen Homes
Work funded by grant from Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines

OWENSVILLE— For the most part, 2009 was a year of change and a year of improvements for the Owensville Senior Citizen Homes. . . . (more)

Local Senior Multi-Family Rental Housing
to Benefit From $1.7 Million in State Rehab Funding
Area nonprofit funded to continue home renovation efforts

The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) announced earlier this month that several projects in the Meramec Region, which were in an area of the state affected by weather related disasters during 2008, have been approved for supplemental Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. . . . (more)

Draft of Crawford County Hazard Mitigation Plan Update Available
for Public Review

The draft update of the Crawford County Hazard Mitigation Plan is now available on the web for public review. Meramec Regional Planning Commission, in partnership with Crawford County, has been updating the 2005 plan. Public meetings were held with city and county officials, school leaders, emergency management agencies and interested individuals. . . . (more)

MRPC, Emergency Planning Committee Oppose Changes in Spill Bill
SB 680 would put greater responsibility for hazardous materials spills
on local governments, fire departments  

ST. JAMES—Both the Meramec Regional Planning Commission and the Meramec Regional Emergency Planning Committee have gone on record in opposition to Senate Bill 680, sponsored by Sen. Jason Crowell, which would change laws governing hazardous material spills. . . . (more)

Transportation Planning Important During Tight Budget Times
By Richard Cavender, Executive Director - Meramec Regional Planning Commission

You would think that as transportation construction dollars “dry up,” there would be less need to plan projects and prioritize transportation needs. But with the number of needs continuing to grow and the dollars to address them shrinking, the need to select the ones that are needed the most becomes even more important. This is better done at the local level than by the state transportation planners. MoDOT recognizes the importance of local input, and that is why they partnered with each rural regional planning commission in Missouri to provide a Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) that will identify and prioritize transportation needs in their region.. . . (more)

MRPC Goes on Record in Support of HB 1995
Legislation would provide emergency preparedness funding for schools within
10-mile nuclear emergency planning zone  

ST. JAMES—Meeting Feb. 11, the board of Meramec Regional Planning Commission voted to support House Bill 1995 and provide a letter in support of the legislation, which is sponsored by Rep. Tom Loehner and co-sponsored by Rep. Charlie Schlottach. . . . (more)

Transportation Committee Prioritizes Highway 63 Segments
Phelps County section ranks #1 followed by northern Osage County section

ST. JAMES—Should the Missouri Department of Transportation receive funding for the four-laning of Highway 63, what sections should be improved first? Meramec Region’s Transportation Advisory Committee has an answer. In August, Mike Dusenberg of MoDOT District 5 office asked the TAC to make recommendations on where the four-lane work should start, if funding was forthcoming. After studying the issue for four months and consulting transportation users in the region, the group prioritized the seven sections of Highway 63 during its regular meeting on Dec. 10. . . . (more)

State Approves St. James’ Request for EEZ Designation

ST. JAMES—The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) has announced approval of Enhanced Enterprise Zone (EEZ) designation for the city of St. James, making it the 67 th zone in the state. The zone was officially approved Oct. 13, 2009. This designation will allow the city to offer a local incentive along with the opportunity for state tax credits to qualifying companies that locate and expand within the zone. Lewis County was recently approved for an EEZ also, for a total of 68 zones in the state. . . . (more)

Transportation Committee to Prioritize Highway 63 Segments
Committee elects Dodd, Jost as new co-chairs

ST. JAMES—Should the Missouri Department of Transportation receive funding for the four-laning of Highway 63, what sections should be improved first? That was the question posed to the Meramec Region’s Transportation Advisory Committee during the group’s August meeting. Mike Dusenberg of MoDOT District 5 office told the TAC that the Environmental Improvement Study was awaiting comments from the Federal Highway Administration. The study broke Highway 63 into seven sections with a price tag of $185.2 million for right-of-way acquisition, construction and stream mitigation activities associated with four-laning the 44.5 mile stretch from Highway 50—near the Mari-Osa Delta—to Rolla in Phelps County. . . (more)