JEFFERSON REVIEW
SUNDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
There are weeks when local government feels routine — and then there are weeks like this one.
Across Jefferson County, conversations are unfolding that will shape classrooms, city budgets, and community safety for years to come. From a packed Fox C-6 board meeting focused on gifted programming, state mandates, and a major bond proposal, to a candid exchange at Arnold City Hall over grocery taxes and the future of Missouri’s tax structure, this edition captures the decisions that quietly but powerfully impact daily life here at home.
We also bring you a thoughtful opinion on school safety reform, a deeper look into Dunklin R-5’s direction straight from Superintendent Dr. Clint Freeman, and the local meetings happening this week that deserve your attention.
And because community is more than policy, you’ll meet Omarion — a one-year-old pup who has already faced more uncertainty than he should. He is still waiting for someone who won’t give up on him.
Thank you for taking the time to stay informed, stay engaged, and support truly local journalism.
— The Jefferson Review Team
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.
County Dispatch
Fox C-6 Board Reviews Gifted Program Growth, Legislative Mandates, and $48 Million Bond Proposal
Universal gifted screening. Daily physical activity mandates. New curriculum requirements. A $48 million bond issue. The February 17 Fox C-6 board meeting wasn’t just about celebrating students — it was about the future direction of the district. Here’s what school leaders say is coming, what it could cost, and why it matters for families across the community.
Arnold City Council Hears Senator Coleman on Grocery Tax, Income Tax Reform, and Boundary Commission Proposal
When a state senator walks into city hall and says the tax system is fundamentally broken, you expect a conversation. What Arnold’s council delivered instead was a pointed debate over grocery taxes, municipal budgets, and local control. From a proposed boundary commission to concerns over a five million dollar budget gap, this discussion could have real consequences for Jefferson County communities. Read the full breakdown of the back and forth.
Education, Accountability, and the Future of Dunklin R-5
In this week’s KJFF Newsmakers, Dunklin R-5 Superintendent Dr. Clint Freeman joins the program for an in-depth discussion about the district’s progress, challenges, and vision for the future. Whether you’re a parent, taxpayer, or community member, you’ll want to hear what he has to say.
Opinion
Bridging the Gap: Supporting Law Enforcement and Protecting Our Schools
Why Missouri’s SB 905 and SB 886 reflect a shift from reactive debate to sustained school safety planning
What does real school safety reform look like beyond headlines and political talking points? Drawing from years leading high-risk operations and managing countywide public safety strategy, Tim Whitney breaks down how SB 905 and SB 886 aim to strengthen schools, support law enforcement, and address staffing shortages without replacing traditional policing. This is a thoughtful, experience-driven perspective you won’t want to miss.
Weather
Jefferson County (Hillsboro area) forecast — Sunday through Thursday
Sunday (Feb 22): Windy and colder with plenty of sun — High 33°F / Low 14°F
Monday (Feb 23): Plenty of sun, but cold — High 33°F / Low 20°F
Tuesday (Feb 24): Partly sunny; breezy in the afternoon — High 53°F / Low 35°F
Wednesday (Feb 25): Cloudy — High 57°F / Low 41°F
Thursday (Feb 26): Times of clouds and sun — High 54°F / Low 27°F
Forecasts can change quickly. Please use caution and check local updates before making weather-dependent plans.
Government Meetings
Jefferson County, municipalities, and school boards — Week of February 23–27, 2026
Monday — February 23
Festus City Council — Work Session
5:30 PM • Festus City Hall Council Chambers
More Information
Festus City Council — Regular Meeting
6:00 PM • Festus City Hall Council Chambers
More Information
Crystal City Council
6:00 PM • Crystal City City Hall • 130 Mississippi Ave
More Information
Jefferson County Council — Regular Meeting
6:30 PM • Jefferson County Administration Building • 729 Maple St, Hillsboro
More Information
Tuesday — February 24
Fox C-6 Board of Education — Regular Meeting
7:00 PM • Roy Wilde Conference Center • 745 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold
More Information
Thursday — February 26
Hillsboro R-III Board of Education — Open Session
7:00 PM • Hillsboro R-III Learning Center • 10486 Business 21
More Information
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Omarion — 1-year-old neutered male pit bull
Omarion has already experienced more heartbreak than any dog should at his young age. He was found as a stray, and his microchip led us to the person who had adopted him less than two months earlier. Instead of being relieved he was found, they refused to take him back and made it clear they did not want him. The rescue that originally adopted Omarion out initially agreed to take him back, but after 37 days of waiting in our shelter, they changed their minds and left him behind, too.
Now Omarion sits in the shelter—unwanted by both his adopter and the rescue—confused, stressed, and losing weight. He is not thriving in this environment and desperately needs a home where he can release his energy and feel safe again.
Omarion previously lived with another dog, a cat, and children, and with proper introductions, he could be a wonderful addition to many families. If you have doggies in your family, bring them along for a meet and greet—Omarion would be so excited to meet them.
Adoption Fee: $50
Covers vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick treatment, heartworm test, and microchip.
