JEFFERSON REVIEW

EASTER SUNDAY EDITION

From the Editor’s Desk

This Easter Sunday, as families across Jefferson County gather to celebrate and reflect, it is a reminder of how much our local community matters. The traditions we share and the places we call home are shaped not just by time, but by the decisions being made right here at the local level.

That is especially true this week. Tuesday, April 7 is Election Day, and the outcomes will directly impact city leadership, school boards, and the future direction of our communities. These races are often decided by just a handful of votes. Before you head to the polls, take a moment to review what is on your ballot. SEE YOUR SAMPLE BALLOT.

In This Edition
Arnold Residents Speak Out Ahead of Election Day
Concerns over construction, safety, and transparency take center stage as voters prepare to decide who leads the city next.
Fox C-6 Decisions That Could Shape Local Schools
A major bond issue and contested school board races could impact classrooms, funding, and policy across the district.
Inside Jefferson County Animal Control
A behind the scenes look at the daily reality inside the Animal Resource Center and the people working to keep animals cared for and adoptable.
Smokey D’s: Built on Smoke, Faith, and Grit
The story behind one of Jefferson County’s most talked about food trucks and the community that helped it grow.
What’s Happening Across Jefferson County
Your guide to local events, government meetings, and everything to watch in the week ahead.

County Dispatch

the latest stories from across Jefferson County
Residents Raise Concerns as Arnold City Council Addresses Neighborhood Issues and Key Projects
Arnold City Council meeting

Residents speak out on construction disruptions and safety concerns while the Mayor seeks public resolution to an audit. But the biggest decision is still ahead. On April 7, voters will choose who represents them on the City Council, shaping how these issues are handled moving forward. Here is what you need to know before heading to the polls.

Arnold School Board Meeting Highlights: State Mandates, Local Investments, and Community Recognition
Dr. Paul Fregeau Fox C-6 Superintendent

Big decisions are on the ballot April 7, including a major bond issue and three open school board seats in Fox C-6. As Superintendent Dr. Paul Fregeau raises concerns about state mandates and funding gaps, the outcome of this election could directly impact classrooms, taxes, and the future of local schools. Here is what you need to know before you vote.

Inside Jefferson County Animal Control: What Most Residents Never See
Jefferson County Animal Resource Center kennels

Most people only see the front desk, but behind the scenes, Jefferson County’s Animal Resource Center is running at full capacity nearly every day. With dozens of animals, limited space, and a small team doing physically and emotionally demanding work, the reality inside the shelter may surprise you. Here is a closer look at what it really takes to keep animals cared for and adoptable.

Opinions

voices from across Jefferson County

The Jefferson Review was not built for comment section shouting matches or Facebook arguments that go nowhere. It was built for real conversations. If you have an opinion about what is happening in Jefferson County, this is your place to say it clearly, thoughtfully, and completely.

We believe strong communities are built on respectful debate, not noise. If you are ready to share your perspective in a way that actually gets heard, Email Opinion and be part of the conversation.

The views expressed in any published opinion are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Jefferson Review. Opinion submissions are published to provide a platform for community perspectives and public discussion.

Business Spotlight

Local Businesses • Local Stories • Jefferson County
Built on Smoke, Faith, and Grit: How Smokey D’s Became a Local Favorite
Smokey D’s BBQ food truck
Photo courtesy of Smokey D’s

What started with backyard barbecue and family tradition has grown into one of Jefferson County’s most talked-about food trucks. Smokey D’s is built on more than great food—it is a story of second chances, strong community support, and a commitment to doing things the right way. From sold-out weekends to a growing catering business, this is the story behind the smoke.

Weather

forecast for Jefferson County Missouri
Sunday
High 68° / Low 45°
Partly cloudy with mild afternoon temperatures. Light winds and a comfortable evening.
Monday
High 72° / Low 50°
Warmer with increasing clouds. Slight chance of late day showers.
Tuesday
High 70° / Low 52°
Scattered showers possible throughout the day with periods of cloud cover.
Wednesday
High 65° / Low 44°
Cooler with clearing skies. Breezy conditions developing in the afternoon.
Thursday
High 67° / Low 46°
Sunny and calm. A pleasant spring day with mild temperatures.

Weather forecasts can change. Always check a trusted local source before making plans.

Government Meetings

Monday, April 6
Hillsboro Board of Aldermen Meeting
Hillsboro City Hall, 101 Main St, Hillsboro, MO 63050
6:30 PM
Pevely City Council Meeting
Pevely City Hall, 401 Main St, Pevely, MO 63070
7:00 PM
Herculaneum City Council Meeting
Herculaneum City Hall, 1 Parkwood Ct, Herculaneum, MO 63048
7:00 PM
Wednesday, April 8
Byrnes Mill City Council Meeting
Byrnes Mill City Hall, 2150 Highway Z, Byrnes Mill, MO 63051
6:30 PM

Community Events

happenings across Jefferson County
Sunday, April 5
Steve Farmer Live
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: LaChance Vineyards, 12237 Peter Moore Ln, De Soto, MO
Cost: Free
Monday, April 6
Family Egg Hunt
Time: 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 4:00 PM
Location: Jefferson County Library Arnold Branch, 1701 Missouri State Rd, Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Free
Garden Bingo
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Jefferson County Library Northwest Branch, 5680 State Road PP, High Ridge, MO 63049
Cost: Free
Friday, April 10
Blooming into Summer Event
Time: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Contemporary Finds, 1524 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Free
Saturday, April 11
Arnold Winter Farmers Market
Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Location: Arnold City Park, 2400 Bradley Beach Rd, Arnold, MO 63010
Cost: Free
Friday, April 17
70’s Music Bingo Night Benefitting Jefferson County Backstoppers
Time: Doors Open 5:30 PM, Bingo at 6:30 PM
Location: 2800 Old Hunning Rd, High Ridge, MO 63049
Cost: $240 per table (8 people)
Upcoming Events
The Tanglefoot Pub Crawl
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Location: Festus Main Street, Festus, MO
Cost: $70
Hillsboro Homecoming Festival Parade
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Time: 11:00 AM
Location: Hillsboro Intermediate School, 10478 MO-21 Bus, Hillsboro, MO 63050
Cost: Free

Adoptable Pet of the Week

3-Year-Old Boxer Mix
Animal ID: 823804
3-year-old Boxer mix available for adoption in Jefferson County

Meet your new adventure buddy.

This 3-year-old Boxer mix is a neutered male with a heart full of joy and paws that are always ready to go. He’s packed with fun-loving energy and is happiest when he has space to run, play, and show off his signature zoomies.

He loves fetch, zoomies, and treats, which makes him eager to learn and easy to train. He already knows how to sit and is excited to learn even more with his future family. He enjoys meeting new dogs and is curious and friendly, though sometimes he is not quite sure what to do once he has made the introduction. With a little guidance and continued socialization, he will keep building his confidence and dog manners.

He is looking for an active home that is ready for playtime, laughter, and lots of love. If you want a loyal companion who greets every day like it is the best day ever, this sweet and silly boy is ready to meet you. His adoption fee is $50 and includes deworming, flea and tick treatment, heartworm test, vaccinations, and microchip.

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