JEFFERSON REVIEW
THURSDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
Jefferson County was busy this week and so were we.
In this Thursday Edition of the Jefferson Review, we take you from a remarkable moment honoring 50 years of public service to a packed Festus City Council meeting where the data center debate continues to intensify. Growth, governance, infrastructure, and transparency are all shaping the future of our county in real time, and we break it down for you.
You will also hear directly from Festus City Administrator Greg Camp in this week’s KJFF Newsmakers, get the latest campaign announcements in two key state House races, and find out what is happening around Jefferson County this Valentine’s and Mardi Gras weekend, from tribute concerts to parades and live music.
Before you close out the edition, make sure you scroll all the way down.
This week’s Adoptable Pet of the Week is Winnie, a quiet and gentle two year old cat patiently waiting for someone to take a chance on her. If you have ever thought about adding a furry friend to your home, do not miss her story.
Local leadership. Local decisions. Local impact.
It is all inside this edition of the Jefferson Review. Make sure you read it all, especially to the very end.
The Jefferson Review Team
County Dispatch
Half a Century of Service: Al Barbagallo Honored for 50 Years of Leadership
Jefferson County Council recognizes a Rock Creek Public Sewer District pioneer while advancing key zoning and budget measures
Fifty years of volunteer service is almost unheard of in local government, but that is exactly what Jefferson County honored this week. Council members recognized Al Barbagallo’s decades of leadership at Rock Creek Public Sewer District, highlighting a safety first culture, statewide awards, and infrastructure decisions that shaped growth across the area. The meeting also included key votes on development and county business that will impact residents moving forward.
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
The Festus City Council moved through a full agenda this week, approving major dispatch radio upgrades, passing a new four way stop for safety, and signing off on community events from Juneteenth to Mardi Gras. But the meeting was also a clear snapshot of how fast the data center conversation is reshaping local politics. Residents packed the room to debate transparency, utility capacity, and long term impacts while city leaders urged civility and emphasized the need for careful review and strong local standards. If you want the key votes, the biggest moments, and what happens next, we have the full breakdown.
KJFF Newsmakers — February 9, 2026
Festus City Administrator Greg Camp
Festus City Administrator Greg Camp joins KJFF Newsmakers to discuss ongoing projects, city priorities, and the future direction of Festus. The conversation covers growth, infrastructure, and the issues impacting residents across the community.
Candidacy Announcements
DAVID BROACH ANNOUNCES CANDIDACY FOR MISSOURI STATE REPRESENTATIVE — DISTRICT 114
Veteran Legislator with Proven Conservative Leadership Seeks Return to the Capitol
David Broach, longtime Jefferson County resident, business leader, and former state representative, has announced his candidacy for Missouri State Representative in House District 114. Broach previously served in the Missouri House from 1993 to 1999 and is seeking a return to Jefferson City to continue advancing conservative principles and local leadership.
STATE REPRESENTATIVE BILL LUCAS ANNOUNCES RE-ELECTION CAMPAIGN
Strong Legislative Record and Overwhelming 2024 Victories Highlight First Term
DE SOTO, MO – December 15, 2025 — Missouri State Representative Bill Lucas today announced his campaign for re-election in House District 115, building on what he described as a successful first term marked by conservative leadership and active legislative engagement. Lucas earned 64% of the vote in the 2024 Republican primary and 74% in the general election.
“It has been an honor to serve the people of District 115,” Lucas said. “With your support, we’ve advanced practical, principled solutions and defended the values our community holds dear. I look forward to continuing this work in the Missouri House.”
Weather
Jefferson County Forecast (Hillsboro reference)
Thursday, February 12 — Mainly cloudy; High 55 °F, Low 32 °F
Friday, February 13 — Intervals of clouds and sunshine; High 64 °F, Low 39 °F
Saturday, February 14 — Cooler with periods of rain; High 47 °F, Low 36 °F
Sunday, February 15 — Times of clouds and sun; High 65 °F, Low 35 °F
Conditions may vary across the county; all times are Central.
What’s Happening Around Jefferson County
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Elvis, Patsy Cline & Loretta Lynn Tribute Show
Doors 6:00 PM • Show 7:00 PM
Rickman Auditorium, Arnold
Featuring Everett Dean as Elvis Presley
Twin City Mardi Gras Weekend
Festus & Crystal City
February 13–15
Friday, February 13
Funky Butt Brass Band
7:00 PM at Taytro’s Bar & Bistro
Tickets: $18 in advance
Saturday, February 14 – Mardi Gras Day
Twin City Mardi Gras Parade – Noon
Route along Bailey Road & Main Street
Theme: Pirates, Love & Mardi Gras
Free live concert and kids’ art & activity zone
1:00–3:00 PM at Contrarian Concert Hall
Free live music throughout the afternoon
Evening headliner: Steve Ewing – 10:00 PM
Contrarian Concert Hall • Tickets $15
Free shuttle service available all day
Sunday, February 15
Mardi Gras Pet Parade
Lineup at Noon • Parade at 12:30 PM
Bailey Road & Main Street area
Hi there, I’m Winnie! I’m about 2 years old and patiently waiting for a home to finally call my own. I can be a little shy in the shelter, which means I sometimes get overlooked—but there’s so much more to me once you give me a moment.
Since moving into the cat playroom, I’ve really started to come out of my shell! I enjoy the company of other cats and have discovered that I quite like soft pets and quiet affection from kind humans. I may not be the loudest or boldest cat in the room, but I promise I have a sweet, gentle heart just waiting for the right person to notice.
Adoption fee: $50 (already spayed). Your fee includes:
- Vaccinations
- Deworming
- Flea & tick treatment
- Microchip
- Wellness exam with our veterinarian
I can’t wait to see the memories we’ll make together. All I need is someone willing to take a chance on a quiet girl who will love you in her own special way.