JEFFERSON REVIEW
THURSDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
This Thursday edition of the Jefferson Review is packed with the conversations shaping our county right now.
We take a closer look at where the Economic Development & Opportunity Council stands on data centers, and why, even as momentum builds, deep divisions remain over how Jefferson County should grow. You’ll also find updates from Hillsboro as city leaders pursue outside grant funding to fuel long-term investment without raising taxes, and a full recap from the Fox C-6 School Board, including student successes, major facility upgrades, and a blunt warning from the superintendent on statewide education policy.
Beyond the headlines, this issue is about community. Our Voices of Jefferson County section remains open for residents who want to speak up, challenge ideas, or bring new ones to the table, because local conversations matter most when real people stand behind them.
Stick around through the end of the edition. We’ve got a full weekend events lineup to help you plan what’s next, and you won’t want to miss this week’s Adoptable Pet of the Week. Brownie is the kind of dog that steals hearts fast, and she’s waiting to meet her forever family.
Thanks for reading, and thanks for staying engaged with what’s happening right here at home.
— The Jefferson Review Editorial Team
County Dispatch
EDOC Signals Openness to Data Centers, But Divisions Remain
After nearly three months of debate, Jefferson County’s Economic Development & Opportunity Council is closing in on a framework that could allow data centers in unincorporated areas—but sharp disagreements remain. Council members generally agree data centers could bring jobs, investment, and long-term revenue if placed in the right locations, yet residents and officials are split over how strict setbacks, environmental protections, and enforcement should be. With strong rules on noise, water use, air quality, and community benefits on the table, the next meeting could determine how far the county is willing to go.
Hillsboro Eyes Grants to Fuel Growth and Investment
Hillsboro leaders are moving to bring more outside funding into the city—without raising taxes—by proactively targeting major grant opportunities for civic improvements, tourism, and public safety. The board also reviewed strong building activity, ongoing Jefferson Foundation investments that support countywide services, and police department operations. With commercial development on the horizon and spring events on the calendar, the city’s message is clear: Hillsboro is positioning itself for steady, long-term growth.
Fox C-6 Board Recap: Student Wins, Turf Approval, and Budget Moves
Fox C-6 leaders moved through key decisions Tuesday night—approving a budget adjustment, updated facility usage fees, a $380,700 turf contract for the Fox High baseball/softball fields, and 120 new teacher laptops. The meeting also showcased big student accomplishments at Fox and Seckman, plus a major milestone for district blood drives. The sharpest moment: Superintendent Dr. Paul Fregeau’s blunt warning that a proposed statewide A–F grading system could “set public schools up for failure.”
Voices of Jefferson County
This space belongs to the people of Jefferson County.
Voices of Jefferson County is where residents can speak their minds about what’s happening in our community; local issues, county government, schools, growth, culture, or anything else you believe deserves attention. If you have a response to an article we’ve published, this is also the place to challenge it, expand on it, or offer another perspective.
We welcome strong opinions. We welcome disagreement. What we don’t welcome are anonymous Facebook trolls.
All submissions must come from real Jefferson County residents and must include your full name and address. No pen names. No burner emails. Accountability matters, and real community conversation only works when people are willing to stand behind their words.
If you’ve got something on your mind, say it.
If you think we missed the mark, tell us why.
If there’s an issue no one is talking about—bring it to the table.
Email your submission with “OPINION” in the subject line. Selected letters may be edited for length and clarity.
Jefferson County has a voice. This is where it’s heard .
Weather
Jefferson County Forecast (Hillsboro reference)
Thursday, Feb 5 — Mostly cloudy with cool temperatures; High 40 °F, Low 28 °F
Friday, Feb 6 — Sunny and milder during the afternoon; High 54 °F, Low 27 °F
Saturday, Feb 7 — Mostly sunny and pleasant for outdoor plans; High 45 °F, Low 28 °F
Sunday, Feb 8 — Mostly sunny with slightly warmer conditions; High 58 °F, Low 33 °F
Conditions may vary across the county; all times are Central.
Events
What’s Happening Around Jefferson County
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Valentine’s Bingo: Shopping Edition
10:00 AM – 5:00 PM • Kimmswick, MO
Shop local, collect Bingo chips, and win cash prizes
$250 Traditional Bingo • $110 Four Corners
Tink’s Barkery & Pawtique Grand Reopening
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
318 N. Main Street, Festus
Free treat bags with purchase • Games for dogs • Photo kissing booth
Cookbook Swap (Adults)
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Jefferson County Library – Windsor Branch
Bring up to five cookbooks and trade for something new
Crystal City Farmer’s Market Vendor Meeting
3:00 PM
316 N. Adams St., Festus
Info session for farmers, makers, and small businesses
Self-Love Saturday Market
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Festus Knights of Columbus
Local vendors, handmade goods, and Valentine-themed shopping
Daphne Culver – Acoustic Solo Live
Doors 6:00 PM
Contrarian Concert Hall & Theater, Festus
Acoustic set with bluegrass jam featuring Tait Kelly
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
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Brownie is a 6-month-old Aussiedoodle with striking looks and a personality that’s still unfolding. Her mom was a petite 31-lb Aussiedoodle (dad is unknown), and Brownie is ready to shine in a home of her own.
She arrived with her siblings just ahead of a major snowstorm and has been settling into indoor life nicely. She’s adjusted well, keeps her kennel clean, and continues to build confidence every day with socialization and training.
What Brownie enjoys:
Playtime and zoomies
Running around with her sisters, Blackie and Betty
Learning what a leash is (and making great progress!)
Brownie’s adoption fee is just $135, which includes:
Vaccinations
Deworming
Flea & tick treatment
Microchip
Spay
If you’re looking to add a unique and eye-catching pup to your pack, Brownie is ready. Have other dogs at home? Bring them by for a meet-and-greet to make sure everyone’s a good match.
Stop in and meet Brownie today!
ADOPT ME!