Growth, Debate, and Big Decisions

From new investment in Fenton to tense negotiations in Festus, Jefferson County faces a defining week

Festus Council Approves Economic Development Advisor in Tense Special Meeting

Emergency session advances Bill 4875 to hire Mark Nelson Advisors for incentive modeling and negotiation support tied to a major proposed project

WOW! Entertainment Opens in Jefferson County Portion of Fenton

New $15 million family destination brings games, food and year round fun under one roof

Tempers Flare and Major Moves Across Jefferson County

From a high-stakes data center showdown in Festus to a rare police honor in Crystal City, this week’s headlines signal a busy season ahead.

Packed Festus Council Meeting Erupts in Heated Data Center Debate

Residents clash over transparency, noise, and tax revenue as city leaders advance infrastructure and development plans.

Crystal City Council Spotlights James Hardie Progress and Honors Officer’s Rare State Medal

Officials detail major site work near Airport Drive while police leadership recognizes extraordinary bravery in a high-risk incident.

Steve Wyatt Earp

Announcement for office

Local Control on the Line

A $48M bond, grocery tax fight, and who really decides Jefferson County's future.

Arnold City Council Hears Senator Coleman on Grocery Tax, Income Tax Reform, and Boundary Commission Proposal

A candid exchange focused on how Jefferson City tax policy could reshape city budgets and local control

Fox C-6 Board Reviews Gifted Program Growth, Legislative Mandates, and $48 Million Bond Proposal

Student achievements highlighted as district leaders warn of expanding state requirements and promote Proposition M

Fire, Growth, and the Future of Jefferson County

Jefferson County Tightens Data Center Regulations Amid Legal Questions

Expanded residential setbacks, stricter noise and environmental standards, and a pending development agreement debate shape the latest EDOC review.

Fire Department Proposal and Public Scrutiny Dominate Desoto Council Meeting

Residents press for answers after discussion surfaces online while city leaders outline a proposed management contract and approve multiple development items

Gannon Delivers Final State of the County

Outgoing executive highlights seven years of growth, balanced budgets, and infrastructure investment while warning against division and anti-development politics

Homicide Suspect Found Dead After Hours-Long Standoff at Festus Hotel

Sheriff Dave Marshak confirms 69-year-old suspect in Fenton killing died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound after SWAT evacuated guests and negotiated through the night.

Decisions That Shape Jefferson County

Fire department leadership changes in De Soto, a major Missouri House vote, school protest rumors addressed, and a bold vision for JeffCo’s economic future.

De Soto Considers One-Year Fire Management Agreement with Rural District

Adoptable Pet of the Day

This stunning 3-year-old Shepherd mix is searching for the one thing she’s been dreaming of most... a family to call her own.

A Week That Matters in Jefferson County

From historic public service and city hall debates to election updates, weekend events, and Winnie the cat waiting for a home, this edition brings you the stories shaping our community right now.

Winnie

Adopt Me!

Festus Balances Growth and Governance as Data Center Debate Intensifies

Council advances public safety upgrades, honors student champions, and approves community events while weighing major technology investment and calls for transparency

Half a Century of Service: Al Barbagallo Honored for 50 Years of Leadership

Jefferson County Council recognizes Rock Creek Public Sewer District pioneer while advancing key zoning, budget, and development measures

Bill Lucas

David Broach

Who Decides for Jefferson County

Local leaders push back, budgets take shape, and major decisions come into focus