JEFFERSON REVIEW
SUNDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
Spring has clearly arrived in Jefferson County, and with it comes the start of our annual rainy season. With several days of rain already in the forecast, residents should keep an eye on local updates and be aware that low water crossings and roads near the Big River can flood quickly this time of year. As always, never drive through water over the roadway and watch for potential road closures across the county.
This week’s Jefferson Review highlights several stories shaping Jefferson County right now, from transparency in local government to decisions voters will soon make at the ballot box.
In Arnold, Mayor Bill Moritz is pushing for the results of a state investigation into the controversial Arnold Parkway proposal to be presented in a public meeting rather than behind closed doors. The move could bring new clarity to one of the city’s most debated development issues.
We’re also taking a closer look at a proposal from several Jefferson County fire districts that could shift part of their funding from property taxes to sales taxes. Supporters say the change could reduce property tax pressure for homeowners while maintaining emergency services across the county.
And in some good community news, the Arnold Rotary Club hosted its annual pancake breakfast this weekend and saw its largest turnout yet. The event helps fund scholarships for students at Fox, Seckman, and Windsor High Schools while supporting several local charities.
In This Edition:
- A closer look at the debate over whether America’s founding principles were rooted in a Christian worldview
- Community events happening across Jefferson County this week
- Upcoming government meetings to keep on your radar
- Our Adoptable Pet of the Week who is still waiting for her forever home
Thank you for supporting local journalism and for reading The Jefferson Review.
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
Arnold Mayor Pushes for Public Audit Presentation Instead of Closed Session
A state investigation into the controversial Arnold Parkway proposal is nearing its conclusion after months of review by the Missouri State Auditor’s Office. But when auditors asked to present their findings to the Arnold City Council behind closed doors, Mayor Bill Moritz refused and pushed for the report to be delivered in a public meeting instead. What the audit uncovered, and why the mayor insists residents should hear it openly, could shape the future of one of the city’s most debated projects.
Jefferson County Voters Could See Property Tax Relief Under New Fire District Proposal
Several Jefferson County fire districts are asking voters to approve a funding shift that could lower property taxes while maintaining emergency services. Rock Community Fire Chief Kevin Wingbermuehle says the April ballot proposal would move part of fire district funding from property taxes to a sales tax, allowing visitors and shoppers to help support local emergency response. Here is how the proposal works and what it could mean for homeowners across the county.
Arnold Rotary Pancake Breakfast Draws Record Crowd and Funds Local Scholarships
A longtime Arnold tradition brought hundreds of residents together this weekend as the Arnold Rotary Club hosted its annual pancake breakfast. The record turnout helped raise money for scholarships awarded each year to graduating seniors from Fox, Seckman, and Windsor High Schools. Here is how the event continues to support students and local charities across Jefferson County.
Opinion
Understanding Why America is a Christian Nation
A Founding Debate
Did America’s Founders Intend a Christian Nation?
The phrase “separation of church and state” is often cited as proof that religion was meant to stay out of government. But some historians argue that phrase never appears in the Constitution and that the founding principles of the nation were heavily influenced by biblical ethics and Christian political thought.
From John Adams’ warnings about morality and self-government to the early colonists’ vision of a “City Upon a Hill,” this article explores the historical case that America’s constitutional system grew out of a Christian worldview.
So what did the founders actually believe about faith and government?
The historical answer may challenge what many Americans have been taught.
Written by Chris Howard
Weather
Forecast for Jefferson County Missouri
Sunday
Mostly sunny and warm.
High: 71° | Low: 47°
Monday
Warmer with plenty of sunshine.
High: 81° | Low: 61°
Tuesday
Warm with some sun, then clouds with thunderstorms possible late in the day.
High: 76° | Low: 55°
Wednesday
Morning showers followed by cloudy and cooler conditions.
High: 59° | Low: 33°
Thursday
Partly sunny and mild.
High: 60° | Low: 44°
Forecasts can change quickly. Check local weather sources for the latest updates.
Government Meetings
Public meetings happening across Jefferson County.
Monday, March 9
Jefferson County Council Regular Meeting
6:30 PM | Administration Center Assembly Room, 729 Maple Street, Hillsboro, MO 63050
More Information
Festus City Council Work Session
5:30 PM | Festus City Hall, 711 West Main Street, Festus, MO 63028
More Information
Festus City Council Meeting
6:00 PM | Festus City Hall Council Chambers, 711 West Main Street, Festus, MO 63028
More Information
Festus Board of Adjustment
7:00 PM | Festus Public Works Building, 950 North Fifth Street, Festus, MO 63028
More Information
Thursday, March 12
Council Economic Development Objectives Committee
3:00 PM | Administration Center Assembly Room, 729 Maple Street, Hillsboro, MO 63050
More Information
Board of Zoning Adjustment
4:00 PM | Administration Center Assembly Room, 729 Maple Street, Hillsboro, MO 63050
More Information
Jefferson County Planning & Zoning Commission Meeting
6:30 PM | Administration Center Assembly Room, 729 Maple Street, Hillsboro, MO 63050
More Information
Community Events
Community gatherings, live music, family activities, and local fundraisers across Jefferson County.
Monday, March 9
Story Time Explorers: Rocket ship & Out of This World
Time: 10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
Location: Cedar Hill Children's Room, Jefferson County Library — Cedar Hill Satellite, 6780 Mall Drive, Cedar Hill, MO 63016
More Information
Tuesday, March 10
Jefferson County Together Countywide Networking Event
Time: 7:30 AM
Location: Hillsboro Community Civic Club, 10349 Business 21, Hillsboro, MO 63050
Registration Required: [email protected]
Tea and Tarot Tuesdays
Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Cost: Readings vary by reader; shop entry is always free
Location: Naugh-Tea Nook, 4051 Jeffco Blvd Ste 2, Arnold, MO 63010
Trivia Night
Time: 7:00 PM
Cost: Free
Location: Nowhere Food & Drink Co, 3946 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010
21 Rock Tuesday Jam Sessions
Time: 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Cost: Free
Location: 21 Rock Grill & Bar, 1 Meramec Shopping Center, Arnold, MO
More Information
Thursday, March 12
Spotlight Community Theatre — Finding Nemo Jr.
Time: March 12 & 13 at 7:00 PM
March 14 at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
March 15 at 2:00 PM
Cost: $15 tickets
Location: Contrarian Concert Hall & Theater, 125 E Main St, Festus, MO 63028
Phone: (636) 428-3331
More Information
Xtreme Bar Bingo & Last Queen Standing
Time: 4:00 PM
Cost: Free to play
Location: Nowhere Food & Drink Co, 3946 Jeffco Blvd, Arnold, MO 63010
Friday, March 13
Maybury Garden Party Murder Mystery Dinner
Time: Doors open 6:00 PM
Cost: $55 per person plus tax and service charge
Location: Villa Antonio Winery, 3660 Linhorst Rd, Hillsboro, MO 63050
More Information
Saturday, March 14
Hillsboro Lions Club Trivia Night
Time: Doors open 6:00 PM Trivia begins 7:00 PM
Cost: $200 table of 8
Location: Hillsboro Civic Center, 10348 Hwy 21, Hillsboro, MO 63050
Phone: (636) 208-2878
More Information
Winter Market (Arnold Farmers Market)
Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Cost: Free admission
Location: Arnold Recreation Center, 1695 Missouri State Rd., Arnold, MO
More Information
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Welcome back, Babs!
Some of you may recognize this familiar face. Babs was a long stay resident who finally found a home on January 30th, 2025. Unfortunately, less than a year later, she’s back with us feeling a little confused and overwhelmed, and once again hoping for her true happily ever after.
Shelter life isn’t Babs’ favorite, and she doesn’t always show her best self from inside her kennel. The noise and stress can make her seem intimidating, but here’s the truth: that’s not who Babs really is. Once she’s outside in the play yard, she completely transforms into a loving, affectionate lap dog who just wants treats, attention, and someone to call her own.
Babs has been known to get overlooked because of how she reacts behind barriers, but if you’re willing to meet her outside of the kennel, you’ll quickly see her sweet, goofy side shine through. She’s an only pet kind of girl not because she’s difficult, but because she loves having all the attention to herself (and honestly, who can blame her?).
Babs would thrive in a calm, patient home with someone willing to help her settle in and remember her manners again once she feels safe and secure. With consistency, love, and snacks, she’s ready to blossom.
Adoption fee: just $50, which includes:
All vaccinations
Deworming
Microchip
Flea & tick treatment
Wellness exam with our vet
Babs is ready to trade shelter stress for couch cuddles and forever love. Will you be the one to give her the ending she’s been waiting for? Stop in and meet her you might just fall in love.
Babs