JEFFERSON REVIEW
SUNDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
A week of growth, tough questions, and the stories that keep Jefferson County feeling like home
There are weeks when Jefferson County feels steady and predictable. And then there are weeks like this one.
A $15 million entertainment complex opens its doors in the Jefferson County portion of Fenton, bringing new energy and investment to our community. Just days later, a packed and tense special meeting in Festus moves negotiations forward on a proposed major development. At the same time, state lawmakers are advancing legislation that could deliver immediate property tax relief tied directly to data center growth.
Growth. Incentives. Accountability. Opportunity.
The decisions being made right now will shape what Jefferson County looks like five, ten, even twenty years from now. Our job is simple: cut through the noise, bring you the facts, and make sure you understand what is happening and why it matters.
And as always, we balance the serious with the local stories that remind us why we love living here. A winter kayak trip on the Meramec turns into a 40 pound river battle. Community events fill the calendar. And Moose, this week’s Adoptable Pet, is still waiting for someone to take him home.
Thank you for reading. Thank you for caring. And thank you for being part of a community that stays engaged.
— The Jefferson Review
County Dispatch
WOW! Entertainment Opens in Jefferson County Portion of Fenton
Fenton just got a major upgrade in family fun. A brand new $15 million entertainment complex has officially opened in the Jefferson County portion of the city, packing duckpin bowling, virtual reality, miniature golf, karaoke and a full scratch kitchen all under one roof. The Jefferson Review stopped by opening weekend to see if the hype was real. Between the food, the games and the energy inside the building, this may quickly become one of the county’s go to hangouts. Before you plan your next family night or group outing, here is what you need to know about WOW! Entertainment.
Festus Council Approves Economic Development Advisor in Tense Special Meeting
A packed room. Raised voices. An emergency vote. Festus City Council approved a $20,000 plus consulting agreement tied to a major proposed development but not without pushback. Here is what happened, why it moved so quickly, and what it means for taxpayers.
Proposed Legislation Would Deliver Immediate Property Tax Relief from Data Center Development
Missouri lawmakers may have just unlocked major property tax cuts tied to massive data center projects, including the one proposed near Festus. State Senator Jason Bean’s legislation would require immediate property tax rate rollbacks when large scale tech facilities are developed, meaning homeowners could see significant tax relief right away instead of waiting years. Supporters say a multibillion dollar data center could translate into meaningful savings for local taxpayers. Will it pass, and what would it mean for Jefferson County?
CASA of Jefferson County gives children in foster care something every kid deserves: a consistent adult in their corner.
Trained community volunteers are appointed by a judge to advocate for a child’s best interests—working with caseworkers, schools, and families, then sharing what they learn so the court can make the most informed decision.
Want to make a real local impact? Volunteer, donate, or sponsor to help CASA reach more children right here in Jefferson County.
Outdoors
Rumble on the Meramec
Nothing about that Sunday said “go fishing.”
Snow was moving in. Temperatures were hovering in the low 30s. And I had fully committed to spending the afternoon on the couch until my phone rang.
As Chris Catiller tells it, what followed was a cold, stubborn, borderline crazy kayak trip on the Meramec River… and one absolute monster blue catfish that nearly towed his buddy across the water.
It started with a hunch. It ended with a 40 pound river giant, a blown up game plan, and a friendly rivalry that still hasn’t been settled.
If you think winter fishing is dead or that the biggest thrill is always your own catch, this Meramec River story might change your mind.
Weather
forecast for Jefferson County Missouri
Sunday (March 1)
High 46° | Low 33°
Cloudy and cooler with rain developing late in the afternoon
Monday (March 2)
High 45° | Low 41°
A dreary day with a wintry mix possible early, then overcast skies
Tuesday (March 3)
High 71° | Low 53°
Morning showers followed by considerable cloudiness and a big warm-up
Wednesday (March 4)
High 58° | Low 45°
Cooler with scattered showers and a possible thunderstorm
Thursday (March 5)
High 63° | Low 49°
Cloudy with showers and another chance of thunderstorms
Weather forecasts can change Check a trusted local weather source before making outdoor plans
Government Meetings
Tuesday March 3, 2026
Crystal City Parks Board Meeting
6:30 PM | Crystal City Hall, 130 Mississippi Ave, Crystal City, MO 63019
More Information
Thursday March 5, 2026
City of Arnold City Council Meeting
7:00 PM | Arnold City Hall, 2101 Jeffco Blvd., Arnold, MO 63010
More Information
Community Events
Sunday March 1, 2026
Leslie Craig Duo Live Music
1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
LaChance Vineyards, 12237 Peter Moore Ln, De Soto, MO 63020
More Information
Tuesday March 3, 2026
Veterans Coffee Talk
9:00 AM
VFW Post 5331, 1 Lynn Lane, Cedar Hill, MO 63016
Contact: VerTrue 314-446-2539 | Col. (retired) Ted Hodgson 314-221-2096 | Mark Newton 636-222-3521
Friday March 6, 2026
Fish Tales
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Free for members | $6 non-members
Arnold Recreation Center Party Room, 1695 Missouri State Rd., Arnold, MO 63010
More Information
Book to Movie Club – The Great Gatsby
5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Free
Windsor Meeting Room, Jefferson County Library Windsor Branch, 7479 Metropolitan Boulevard, Barnhart, MO 63012
More Information
Saturday March 7, 2026
Big River VFW Post 5331 Fish Fry
3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Fish plate includes fried fish, cole slaw, hush puppies, and fries
$13 cash | Dine in or carry out
Call Ahead: 636-274-5001
Big River VFW Post 5331, 1 Lynn Lane, Cedar Hill, MO
Fox High School Spring Craft Show 2026
Presented by FHS Parents’ Club
Saturday 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Sunday 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Fox High School, 751 Jeffco Blvd., Arnold, MO 63010
BackStoppers of Jefferson County Fundraiser
Doors open at 6:00 PM
Dinner | Drinks | Raffles | Guest Speakers
$400 Table (8) | $50 Individual
Crystal City Elks Hall, 4 Elks Club, Festus, MO 63028
Tickets: Angela | 636-797-5028 | [email protected]
Sunday March 8, 2026
Fox High School Spring Craft Show 2026
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Fox High School, 751 Jeffco Blvd., Arnold, MO 63010
Saturday March 14, 2026
Arnold Farmers Market Winter Market
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
2400 Bradley Beach Rd., Arnold, MO 63010
More Information
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Meet Moose
Moose is a handsome 2½-year-old neutered male Akita mix and a big, lovable boy weighing in at 80+ pounds. With a stunning brindle coat that turns heads wherever he goes, he is the perfect blend of affectionate and independent. Moose enjoys time with his people, walks, favorite toys, and a good set of joyful zoomies. True to his Akita roots, he is loyal, strong, and smart, and he will thrive with an experienced owner who can provide firm, consistent, positive training to help him be his very best. If you are looking for a devoted companion with a big heart to match his big paws, Moose just might be your guy.
Adoption fee: $50 (includes vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick treatment, heartworm test, and a microchip)
Moose