JEFFERSON REVIEW
THURSDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
This week’s Jefferson Review is one you don’t want to miss.
In Festus, a meeting over a proposed data center turned chaotic as emotions boiled over and the divide in the community became impossible to ignore. Meanwhile, the County Council made a key appointment that will shape an upcoming election, and in Crystal City, quiet votes may lead to real changes in your bills and your streets.
There is also an opinion piece from County Assessor Bob Boyer on a major school bond issue before voters this April. We then highlight a local business doing things differently, and bringing you everything happening across Jefferson County this weekend.
Shouting, tension, and even physical confrontation as the data center debate boils over in Festus.
The County Council makes its pick, but the race is far from over.
A routine Crystal City meeting could affect your wallet and your streets in the months ahead.
A deeper look at the $48 million school bond and how it could impact taxpayers.
A local photographer going to extreme lengths to get the perfect image.
Plus your full weekend weather, community events, and an adoptable pet ready for a home.
This is local news that actually affects your life.
County Dispatch
![[COUNTY DISPATCH STORY 2 ALT TEXT]](https://beehiiv-images-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/asset/file/60c2442a-13c2-4fad-9895-6b017167e27f/IMG_3829.jpeg?t=1774440750)
A line formed before the doors even opened. Inside, the gym was packed. And as the night went on, tensions boiled over. Shouting from the crowd, speakers being heckled, and at one point, two men began shoving before others stepped in. What happened inside the Festus meeting was far from routine and it revealed just how divided the community has become over the proposed data center.
Council Chooses Bennett for District 5.
![[COUNTY DISPATCH STORY 1 ALT TEXT]](https://beehiiv-images-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/asset/file/07d565e7-f4e4-45f5-8e2f-3689a9d8afc7/IMG_3873_2.jpeg?t=1774404437)
The decision is in. After interviewing six candidates for the District 5 seat, the Jefferson County Council has made its choice. Three of those candidates will still face voters in the August primary, but one is already stepping into the role today.
![[COUNTY DISPATCH STORY 3 ALT TEXT]](https://beehiiv-images-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/asset/file/6b373546-643f-40b6-918d-4b5072ccb50d/IMG_1182__1_.jpg?t=1774481545)
A quiet Crystal City Council meeting may end up having a big impact on your wallet and your streets. A water rate increase is on the way, a $10 million budget has been approved, and city leaders are planning major infrastructure work across town. But behind the routine votes were bigger conversations about aging water lines, employee pay, and a growing frustration over newly paved roads being torn up by utility work. What’s changing, what it means for residents, and where the money is actually going is all starting to take shape.
Opinions
![[OPINION ALT TEXT]](https://beehiiv-images-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/asset/file/5160c077-7320-46a3-a01a-aa01f6efbd1a/bob.jpg?t=1774484672)
A $48 million school bond sounds straightforward—until you look closer. Hidden in Proposition M is a shift that could quietly impact how your tax dollars are used for years to come. It’s not just about roofs and HVAC systems… it’s about how money moves, and what that means for your wallet. Before you vote on April 7, here’s what you need to understand.
Business Spotlight
![[BUSINESS FEATURE ALT TEXT]](https://beehiiv-images-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/asset/file/fb4b26f1-634c-4c5a-8ca6-fe8509afdaf3/Screenshot_2026-03-19_at_10.36.51_PM.png?t=1773978511)
Shooting photos at highway speeds while hanging out of a moving vehicle is not for everyone. But for one Jefferson County photographer, it is just part of the process. Allison Theiss is building a photography business around real moments, real detail, and doing whatever it takes to get the shot. See how she does it
Weather
Weather forecasts can change quickly. For the most up-to-date conditions, monitor local forecasts and alerts.
Government Meetings
Community Events
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Meet this gentle short-haired tabby lady (ID#827132) who’s mastered the art of quiet companionship and is ready to spend her golden years right where she belongs, up in a loving home.
At least 10 years old (and possibly older), this sweet, spayed girl may be slowing down in her steps, but her affection is as energetic as ever. Her purr motor is still in perfect working order, and she absolutely yearns for affection.
She’s the kind of cat who believes laps were invented just for her, and honestly, she makes a very convincing case. Whether you’re reading, watching TV, or just sitting still for five minutes, she’ll be there, warming your lap and your heart at the same time. She gets along well with other cats, bringing a calm, easygoing presence to any home.
If you’re looking for a low-key, loving companion, she’s your girl. All she wants is a soft place to land, a kind hand to pet her, and someone to remind her every day that she’s home.
Her adoption fee is $50 and includes all her vaccinations, deworming, flea/tick treatment and microchip.