JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released the results of its 2025 annual school bus inspection program, aimed at ensuring the safety of students across the state. The report was announced by Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the patrol.

This year, patrol personnel inspected 11,255 school buses statewide, with the following results:

Buses with defective components must be repaired within 10 days. Those placed out of service require repairs and a reinspection by patrol staff before they can transport students again.

A total of 297 school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence Award for 2025. This designation allows 6,782 buses from these districts to display the Total Fleet Excellence sticker, signifying full compliance with safety standards.

The Highway Patrol emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance and collaboration between school districts and state inspectors to keep student transportation safe and reliable.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. — The Missouri State Highway Patrol has released the results of its 2025 annual school bus inspection program, aimed at ensuring the safety of students across the state. The report was announced by Colonel Michael A. Turner, superintendent of the patrol.This year, patrol personnel inspected 11,255 school buses statewide, with the following results:<ul>
 <li>Approved upon initial inspection: 10,144
</li><li>Found defective: 799
</li><li>Placed out-of-service: 312
</li>
 </ul>Buses with defective components must be repaired within 10 days. Those placed out of service require repairs and a reinspection by patrol staff before they can transport students again.A total of 297 school districts earned the Patrol’s Total Fleet Excellence Award for 2025. This designation allows 6,782 buses from these districts to display the Total Fleet Excellence sticker, signifying full compliance with safety standards.<h2>Local District Results</h2><ul>
 <li>Jefferson C-123: 5 buses
60% approved
40% defective
0% out of service

</li><li>60% approved
</li><li>40% defective
</li><li>0% out of service
</li><li>Maryville R-II: 18 buses
83.3% approved
11.1% defective
5.6% out of service

</li><li>83.3% approved
</li><li>11.1% defective
</li><li>5.6% out of service
</li><li>Nodaway-Holt R-VII: 5 buses
100% approved
0% defective/out of service

</li><li>100% approved
</li><li>0% defective/out of service
</li><li>North Nodaway R-VI: 7 buses
57.1% approved
42.9% defective
0% out of service

</li><li>57.1% approved
</li><li>42.9% defective
</li><li>0% out of service
</li><li>Northeast Nodaway R-V: 6 buses
50.0% approved
33.3% defective
16.7% out of service

</li><li>50.0% approved
</li><li>33.3% defective
</li><li>16.7% out of service
</li><li>South Nodaway R-IV: 8 buses
62.5% approved
25.0% defective
12.5% out of service

</li><li>62.5% approved
</li><li>25.0% defective
</li><li>12.5% out of service
</li><li>West Nodaway R-I: 5 buses
60.0% approved
20.0% defective
20.0% out of service

</li><li>60.0% approved
</li><li>20.0% defective
</li><li>20.0% out of service
</li>
 </ul>The Highway Patrol emphasizes the importance of ongoing maintenance and collaboration between school districts and state inspectors to keep student transportation safe and reliable.

Missouri Highway Patrol Releases 2025 School Bus Inspection Results

FALLS CITY, Neb. — The Richardson County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment Tuesday after holding a public hearing on a proposed $256,518 increase in the Capital Acquisition Budget. The added funds will support electrical upgrades at the Law Enforcement Center, to be financed through a Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) lease-purchase agreement. No public comments were made during the hearing.

Following the hearing, the Board adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget.

Also during the meeting, commissioners adopted a revised Local Emergency Operations Plan, which had been approved by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Most of the changes to the plan were editorial updates.

Sheriff Rick Hardesty met with the Board to propose wage increases for staff at the Law Enforcement Center, effective July 1, 2025. He also discussed the ongoing law enforcement services agreement between the Sheriff’s Department and the City of Humboldt. Sheriff Hardesty and Commissioner Rick Karas had recently attended a Humboldt City Council meeting, and said a draft of a new agreement is being prepared for city review.

Hardesty also informed the board that Deputy Aitken's patrol vehicle had struck a deer earlier this month.

The Board also heard from Humboldt Mayor Jan Wilhelm, who raised concerns about road and bridge maintenance, particularly the condition of the road leading to the Humboldt Airport.

The next meeting of the Richardson County Commissioners is scheduled for later this month.

FALLS CITY, Neb. — The Richardson County Board of Commissioners approved a budget amendment Tuesday after holding a public hearing on a proposed $256,518 increase in the Capital Acquisition Budget. The added funds will support electrical upgrades at the Law Enforcement Center, to be financed through a Nebraska Association of County Officials (NACO) lease-purchase agreement. No public comments were made during the hearing.Following the hearing, the Board adopted a resolution amending the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget.Also during the meeting, commissioners adopted a revised Local Emergency Operations Plan, which had been approved by the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency. Most of the changes to the plan were editorial updates.Sheriff Rick Hardesty met with the Board to propose wage increases for staff at the Law Enforcement Center, effective July 1, 2025. He also discussed the ongoing law enforcement services agreement between the Sheriff’s Department and the City of Humboldt. Sheriff Hardesty and Commissioner Rick Karas had recently attended a Humboldt City Council meeting, and said a draft of a new agreement is being prepared for city review.Hardesty also informed the board that Deputy Aitken's patrol vehicle had struck a deer earlier this month.The Board also heard from Humboldt Mayor Jan Wilhelm, who raised concerns about road and bridge maintenance, particularly the condition of the road leading to the Humboldt Airport.In other business:<ul>
 <li>Craig Coonce, a Rulo resident, requested permission to establish a cemetery plot on his land in the Village of Rulo. The Board declined to act on the request, citing a need for more information.
</li><li>The commissioners held a nearly one-hour executive session with Highway Superintendent Steve Darveau and County Attorney Samantha Scheitel to discuss personnel matters.
</li>
 </ul>The next meeting of the Richardson County Commissioners is scheduled for later this month.

Richardson County Commissioners Approve Budget Amendment, Discuss Law Enforcement and Infrastructure

Leaders of the United
States House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee want Congress to
consider an overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Committee chair,
Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves, has released a “discussion draft”
along with the ranking Democrat on the Committee, Congressman Rick Larsen of
Washington state.

Graves, a
Republican, says the two want to streamline FEMA, especially to help the
victims of disasters receive aid quicker.

“It just shouldn’t
take as long as FEMA does now, the way it’s set up,” Graves tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “It hasn’t been working for Americans for some time now. And we’ve
been working on FEMA reforms over the years and it just simply hasn’t been enough.
So, this is a big overhaul of the system.”

The proposal would
return FEMA to cabinet-level status, reporting directly to the president. It
would require FEMA to eliminate federal jargon and provide clear notices to
victims. It would give incentives to states to invest in disaster mitigation
efforts.

Graves accuses
FEMA of unfairly distributing disaster aid.

“And it’s almost
like cherry picking,” Graves says. “Some victims don’t get the help that they
need. Some get more help than they need. This is going to make sure that they
treat everybody fairly. This needs to be done once and for all. The system
needs to be overhauled.”

The proposal is
formally called the, “Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025. It
would establish a Recovery Task Force to close out 1,000 lingering disaster declarations
dating back to Hurricane Katrina. It would direct FEMA to improve coordination
among federal agencies that respond to disasters.

Graves and Larsen
released what they call a “discussion draft” of the legislation to get feedback
from members of Congress as well as those who work in emergency management.

Graves accuses
FEMA of not only unfairly distributing disaster aid, but, at times, playing
politics with it.

“Depending on your
politics or what signs that you have in your yard shouldn’t have any impact
whatsoever on whether or not you receive assistance or not,” Graves says.

Florida officials
claimed FEMA, during the Biden administration, withheld aid from some Florida
hurricane victims, because they supported then President-elect Trump.

Some in
Washington, D.C. have called for the elimination of FEMA with the money spend
on the federal agency distributed to the states.

Graves says proposes
overhauling FEMA, not eliminating a federal agency to respond to disasters. 

“It’s under my
jurisdiction and I do think that we do need a federal agency,” Graves says.

The proposal also
would remove obstacles that discourage donations from charities, religious
organizations, and the public, to increase private disaster response. It would
also promote more preventative measures.

You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostLeaders of the United
States House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee want Congress to
consider an overhaul of the Federal Emergency Management Agency.Committee chair,
Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves, has released a “discussion draft”
along with the ranking Democrat on the Committee, Congressman Rick Larsen of
Washington state.Graves, a
Republican, says the two want to streamline FEMA, especially to help the
victims of disasters receive aid quicker.“It just shouldn’t
take as long as FEMA does now, the way it’s set up,” Graves tells KFEQ/St.
Joseph Post. “It hasn’t been working for Americans for some time now. And we’ve
been working on FEMA reforms over the years and it just simply hasn’t been enough.
So, this is a big overhaul of the system.”The proposal would
return FEMA to cabinet-level status, reporting directly to the president. It
would require FEMA to eliminate federal jargon and provide clear notices to
victims. It would give incentives to states to invest in disaster mitigation
efforts.Graves accuses
FEMA of unfairly distributing disaster aid.“And it’s almost
like cherry picking,” Graves says. “Some victims don’t get the help that they
need. Some get more help than they need. This is going to make sure that they
treat everybody fairly. This needs to be done once and for all. The system
needs to be overhauled.”The proposal is
formally called the, “Fixing Emergency Management for Americans Act of 2025. It
would establish a Recovery Task Force to close out 1,000 lingering disaster declarations
dating back to Hurricane Katrina. It would direct FEMA to improve coordination
among federal agencies that respond to disasters.Graves and Larsen
released what they call a “discussion draft” of the legislation to get feedback
from members of Congress as well as those who work in emergency management.Graves accuses
FEMA of not only unfairly distributing disaster aid, but, at times, playing
politics with it.“Depending on your
politics or what signs that you have in your yard shouldn’t have any impact
whatsoever on whether or not you receive assistance or not,” Graves says.Florida officials
claimed FEMA, during the Biden administration, withheld aid from some Florida
hurricane victims, because they supported then President-elect Trump.Some in
Washington, D.C. have called for the elimination of FEMA with the money spend
on the federal agency distributed to the states.Graves says proposes
overhauling FEMA, not eliminating a federal agency to respond to disasters. “It’s under my
jurisdiction and I do think that we do need a federal agency,” Graves says.The proposal also
would remove obstacles that discourage donations from charities, religious
organizations, and the public, to increase private disaster response. It would
also promote more preventative measures.You can follow&nbsp;Brent on X @GBrentKFEQ.

Congressman Graves proposes overhaul of FEMA

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Northwest Missouri State University is closing its Kansas City campus location at the Northland Innovation Campus, marking a strategic shift in how the university serves students in the metro area.

The university has operated from the Northland facility since 2016, helping to fund and design the building to support graduate-level education. However, changing student needs and a post-pandemic landscape have reshaped the university’s focus.

As graduate students shifted to online learning, the physical classroom space in Kansas City became less essential. In response, Northwest pivoted to other priorities including:

These initiatives will continue in Kansas City, even as the university vacates its current space. A smaller leased facility is in the works, and all employees will remain on staff, working from the new location.

The move will result in cost savings, and the furniture from the Northland facility will be repurposed to furnish the Martindale building in Maryville, once renovations are complete.

Though the Northland chapter is closing, Northwest’s presence in Kansas City remains active, with efforts continuing to engage students, educators, and professionals across the metro.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Northwest Missouri State University is closing its Kansas City campus location at the Northland Innovation Campus, marking a strategic shift in how the university serves students in the metro area.The university has operated from the Northland facility since 2016, helping to fund and design the building to support graduate-level education. However, changing student needs and a post-pandemic landscape have reshaped the university’s focus.As graduate students shifted to online learning, the physical classroom space in Kansas City became less essential. In response, Northwest pivoted to other priorities including:<ul>
 <li>Dual credit courses for metro-area high school students
</li><li>Certificate programs
</li><li>Professional development conferences
</li>
 </ul>These initiatives will continue in Kansas City, even as the university vacates its current space. A smaller leased facility is in the works, and all employees will remain on staff, working from the new location.The move will result in cost savings, and the furniture from the Northland facility will be repurposed to furnish the Martindale building in Maryville, once renovations are complete.Though the Northland chapter is closing, Northwest’s presence in Kansas City remains active, with efforts continuing to engage students, educators, and professionals across the metro.

Northwest Missouri State Adjusts Kansas City Presence, Closes Northland Campus

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Downtown Maryville has received a notable honor, as the nonprofit Main Street America has officially designated the city as an affiliate member of its prestigious network. The recognition places Maryville among more than 350 communities nationwide that are celebrated for their commitment to building strong and vibrant downtowns.

Erin Barnes, President of Main Street America, noted that the organization selects affiliate members based on their dedication to creating thriving, resilient communities. Other communities in the region with this recognition include Trenton and Chillicothe, Missouri; Falls City, Nebraska; and Atchison, Kansas.

Deanna Davison, Director of <a href="https://www.downtownmaryvillemo.com/">Downtown Maryville</a>, says the designation is a powerful advocacy tool, validating the community’s efforts to preserve its historic character while building a vibrant local economy. She credited the volunteers, local businesses, and community partners who have played key roles in downtown improvement initiatives.

Main Street America supports economic revitalization through business promotion, events, aesthetic improvements, and community engagement. In Maryville, these efforts have included:

Two major projects are currently underway:

With this designation, Downtown Maryville is poised to continue growing as a hub of activity, creativity, and local pride. The Main Street America affiliation brings increased visibility, opportunities for funding, and valuable resources to support continued revitalization efforts.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Downtown Maryville has received a notable honor, as the nonprofit Main Street America has officially designated the city as an affiliate member of its prestigious network. The recognition places Maryville among more than 350 communities nationwide that are celebrated for their commitment to building strong and vibrant downtowns.Erin Barnes, President of Main Street America, noted that the organization selects affiliate members based on their dedication to creating thriving, resilient communities. Other communities in the region with this recognition include Trenton and Chillicothe, Missouri; Falls City, Nebraska; and Atchison, Kansas.Deanna Davison, Director of <a href="https://www.downtownmaryvillemo.com/">Downtown Maryville</a>, says the designation is a powerful advocacy tool, validating the community’s efforts to preserve its historic character while building a vibrant local economy. She credited the volunteers, local businesses, and community partners who have played key roles in downtown improvement initiatives.Main Street America supports economic revitalization through business promotion, events, aesthetic improvements, and community engagement. In Maryville, these efforts have included:<ul>
 <li>“Third Thursday” celebrations
</li><li>The weekly “Downtown Market”
</li><li>Expanded business hours to encourage evening activity
</li><li>Surveys and outreach to align projects with community interests
</li>
 </ul>Two major projects are currently underway:<ul>
 <li>Downtown Pedestrian Alleyway Project – A revitalization of the alley between Bank Midwest and The Pub to create a welcoming pedestrian space with lighting, seating, and landscaping.
</li><li>Downtown Pavilion Project – A large covered structure designed to host events like the Maryville Farmers Market, serving as a central gathering place downtown.
</li>
 </ul>With this designation, Downtown Maryville is poised to continue growing as a hub of activity, creativity, and local pride. The Main Street America affiliation brings increased visibility, opportunities for funding, and valuable resources to support continued revitalization efforts.

Maryville’s Downtown Earns National Recognition as Main Street America Affiliate

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville is strengthening its commitment to patient care with the expansion of its respiratory therapy team, now featuring two full-time night shift therapists—a move that’s already making a life-saving difference.

Recently, maternity staff at the hospital shared that a newborn in critical condition was able to receive immediate respiratory support during the night thanks to the additional team members. The presence of on-site respiratory therapists eliminated a potentially dangerous delay, allowing for quick intervention and transfer.

“Life-changing,” is how nurses at the hospital described the impact of the around-the-clock respiratory care. The respiratory therapy team provides vital services across multiple departments, including emergency, surgical, maternity, and routine inpatient care.

In addition to immediate bedside care, Mosaic’s pulmonology services help diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including:

Mosaic’s enhanced respiratory care reflects its ongoing dedication to providing timely, expert care for patients of all ages, from newborns in maternity to older adults with chronic lung disease.

You can learn more about the respiratory therapy services at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville on their <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/Main/Location/maryville-mo/mosaic-medical-center-maryville/main-medical-center/mosaic-respiratory-care-maryville/">website</a>.&nbsp;

MARYVILLE, Mo. — Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville is strengthening its commitment to patient care with the expansion of its respiratory therapy team, now featuring two full-time night shift therapists—a move that’s already making a life-saving difference.Recently, maternity staff at the hospital shared that a newborn in critical condition was able to receive immediate respiratory support during the night thanks to the additional team members. The presence of on-site respiratory therapists eliminated a potentially dangerous delay, allowing for quick intervention and transfer.“Life-changing,” is how nurses at the hospital described the impact of the around-the-clock respiratory care. The respiratory therapy team provides vital services across multiple departments, including emergency, surgical, maternity, and routine inpatient care.In addition to immediate bedside care, Mosaic’s pulmonology services help diagnose and treat a broad range of conditions affecting the lungs and respiratory system, including:<ul>
 <li>Asthma and allergic respiratory diseases
</li><li>Sleep apnea and other sleep disorders
</li><li>Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and emphysema
</li><li>Chronic cough and unexplained shortness of breath (dyspnea)
</li><li>Pulmonary hypertension and interstitial lung disease
</li><li>Lung cancer and respiratory infections such as tuberculosis
</li><li>Complex airway stenosis and cystic fibrosis-related conditions
</li><li>Smoking cessation and more
</li>
 </ul>Mosaic’s enhanced respiratory care reflects its ongoing dedication to providing timely, expert care for patients of all ages, from newborns in maternity to older adults with chronic lung disease.You can learn more about the respiratory therapy services at Mosaic Medical Center – Maryville on their <a href="https://www.mymlc.com/Main/Location/maryville-mo/mosaic-medical-center-maryville/main-medical-center/mosaic-respiratory-care-maryville/">website</a>.&nbsp;

Mosaic Maryville Expands Night Shift Respiratory Therapy Services

STANTON, Iowa — Big changes are ahead for students and staff in the Stanton Community School District, as preparations continue for a switch to a four-day school week beginning this fall.

The 2025-26 school calendar, recently approved by the Stanton School Board, features classes Tuesday through Friday, with only four Mondays scheduled for instruction.

To meet instructional requirements, the district will extend the school day by approximately 35 minutes, with most of the additional time added to the end of the day. The adjusted calendar will actually include slightly more instructional time than previous years.

The new school year will begin August 25, and also includes one additional instructional week. While the change came late in the school planning cycle, the district is already seeing benefits when it comes to recruiting staff.

STANTON, Iowa — Big changes are ahead for students and staff in the Stanton Community School District, as preparations continue for a switch to a four-day school week beginning this fall.The 2025-26 school calendar, recently approved by the Stanton School Board, features classes Tuesday through Friday, with only four Mondays scheduled for instruction.To meet instructional requirements, the district will extend the school day by approximately 35 minutes, with most of the additional time added to the end of the day. The adjusted calendar will actually include slightly more instructional time than previous years.The new school year will begin August 25, and also includes one additional instructional week. While the change came late in the school planning cycle, the district is already seeing benefits when it comes to recruiting staff.

Stanton School District Prepares for Switch to Four-Day Week in 2025-26

SHENANDOAH, Iowa — A once-dilapidated home in Shenandoah is now fully renovated and on the market—thanks to three years of dedication by Shenandoah High School students, teachers, and community partners.

The house at 213 West Sheridan Avenue, which was purchased by the Shenandoah School District from the city in 2022 for just $1, served as a hands-on learning project for students in the high school's building trades program. The work was celebrated with an open house earlier this week.

Despite obstacles, the school received vital support from local businesses, volunteers, and city officials, who provided supplies, labor, and expertise.&nbsp;

The school district is accepting sealed bids for the property, with the goal of selling the home at the August Shenandoah School Board meeting.

SHENANDOAH, Iowa — A once-dilapidated home in Shenandoah is now fully renovated and on the market—thanks to three years of dedication by Shenandoah High School students, teachers, and community partners.The house at 213 West Sheridan Avenue, which was purchased by the Shenandoah School District from the city in 2022 for just $1, served as a hands-on learning project for students in the high school's building trades program. The work was celebrated with an open house earlier this week.Despite obstacles, the school received vital support from local businesses, volunteers, and city officials, who provided supplies, labor, and expertise.&nbsp;The school district is accepting sealed bids for the property, with the goal of selling the home at the August Shenandoah School Board meeting.

Shenandoah High Students Complete Rehab Project, Home Now Up for Sale

A graduate from Northwest Missouri State University and a news anchor at KQ2 in St. Joseph, Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, has been crowned as Miss Missouri 2025.&nbsp;

Rowe and 20 other women competed for the title Saturday night in Mexico.&nbsp; Her community service initiative is “The Purple Project” Raising Awareness, Saving Lives,” which advocates for victims of domestic violence. Rowe is a survivor of domestic violence.

As winner of the Miss Missouri competition, Rowe will receive a $14,000 scholarship and will go onto Orlando, Florida to compete for the Miss America crown in August.&nbsp; This year was the 55th consecutive year that the Miss Missouri competition was held in mid-Missouri’s Mexico.

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750029992510.jpeg" alt="Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University and news anchor at KQ2, was crowned 2025 Miss Missouri/ Photo credit Matt Pilger, Missourinet" />
 <figcaption>Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, a graduate of Northwest Missouri State University and news anchor at KQ2, was crowned 2025 Miss Missouri/ Photo credit Matt Pilger, Missourinet</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKEA graduate from Northwest Missouri State University and a news anchor at KQ2 in St. Joseph, Miss Kansas City Courtney Rowe, has been crowned as Miss Missouri 2025.&nbsp;Rowe and 20 other women competed for the title Saturday night in Mexico.&nbsp; Her community service initiative is “The Purple Project” Raising Awareness, Saving Lives,” which advocates for victims of domestic violence. Rowe is a survivor of domestic violence.As winner of the Miss Missouri competition, Rowe will receive a $14,000 scholarship and will go onto Orlando, Florida to compete for the Miss America crown in August.&nbsp; This year was the 55th consecutive year that the Miss Missouri competition was held in mid-Missouri’s Mexico.You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.

NWMSU graduate, St. Joseph news personality named Miss Missouri

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

A $1.5 billion stadium funding plan aimed at convincing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to stay in Missouri was signed into law Saturday afternoon by Gov. Mike Kehoe shortly before his trip to France on a trade mission.

Kehoe signed two other bills on Saturday: one providing $125 million in aid for communities hit by severe weather and another spending around $200 million on various construction projects across the state.

The bills were the product of a two week special legislative session called by Kehoe last month designed, primarily, to counter an offer by Kansas to fund up to 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals if they moved across the state line. That deal expires at the end of the month.

Missouri’s counter offer would allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.

The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.

Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030.

“We called legislators back to Jefferson City because the stakes were too high to wait,” Kehoe said in an emailed statement announcing he signed the stadium funding deal.

The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. The aid was required due to uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado.

Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19. The president didn’t officially declare a disaster, opening the door for federal aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">until June 10</a>.

The governor was expected to quickly sign the bills, which passed earlier this week, because he will be in Paris on Monday for his first international trade mission. During Kehoe’s absence, Lt. Gov. David Wasinger will serve as acting governor.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/5/1748263709817.png" alt="GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption>GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, is pictured on Sat. Feb. 8 (Anna Spoerre/The Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/jason-hancock/">JASON HANCOCK</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>A $1.5 billion stadium funding plan aimed at convincing the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals to stay in Missouri was signed into law Saturday afternoon by Gov. Mike Kehoe shortly before his trip to France on a trade mission.Kehoe signed two other bills on Saturday: one providing $125 million in aid for communities hit by severe weather and another spending around $200 million on various construction projects across the state.The bills were the product of a two week special legislative session called by Kehoe last month designed, primarily, to counter an offer by Kansas to fund up to 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums for the Chiefs and Royals if they moved across the state line. That deal expires at the end of the month.Missouri’s counter offer would allocate state taxes collected from economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman to bond payments for renovations at Arrowhead and a new stadium for the Royals in Jackson or Clay counties.The cost is estimated at close to $1.5 billion over 30 years.Both teams have expressed interest in leaving Missouri when the lease on their current stadiums expire in 2030.“We called legislators back to Jefferson City because the stakes were too high to wait,” Kehoe said in an emailed statement announcing he signed the stadium funding deal.The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. The aid was required due to uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado.Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19. The president didn’t officially declare a disaster, opening the door for federal aid,&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">until June 10</a>.The governor was expected to quickly sign the bills, which passed earlier this week, because he will be in Paris on Monday for his first international trade mission. During Kehoe’s absence, Lt. Gov. David Wasinger will serve as acting governor.

Missouri governor signs Kansas City stadium funding, St. Louis disaster aid

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Peterbilt semi driven by a 57-year-old Monticello, Arkansas man was northbound on Interstate 35 six miles south of Eagleville. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.

Harrison County EMS transported the driver the Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 10p.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2025 Peterbilt semi driven by a 57-year-old Monticello, Arkansas man was northbound on Interstate 35 six miles south of Eagleville. The vehicle traveled off the east side of the road and overturned.Harrison County EMS transported the driver the Mosaic Life Care. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Harrison County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Dodge Ram driven by a 58-year-old Eagleville man was leaving a business parking lot northbound at Route N.

The. pickup pulled into the path of an eastbound 2005 Scion XB driven by a 66-year-old Eagleville woman.&nbsp; The pickup struck the front passenger side of the Scion.

EMS transported the woman driver to Harrison County Community Hospital. The pickup driver was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

HARRISON COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 8a.m. Friday in Harrison County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 1997 Dodge Ram driven by a 58-year-old Eagleville man was leaving a business parking lot northbound at Route N.The. pickup pulled into the path of an eastbound 2005 Scion XB driven by a 66-year-old Eagleville woman.&nbsp; The pickup struck the front passenger side of the Scion.EMS transported the woman driver to Harrison County Community Hospital. The pickup driver was not injured.&nbsp; Both drivers were not wearing seat belts, according to the MSHP. The Patrol no longer releases names of accident victims.

Missouri man injured after 2-vehicle crash

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The City of Maryville is set to upgrade its lake patrol equipment with the acquisition of a new patrol boat for Mozingo Lake Park.

At this week's city council meeting, members gave first-reading approval for the purchase of a 2025 model boat from Excel Boats, priced at approximately $55,000. The new watercraft will replace the city's aging patrol boat, which Police Chief Mike Stolte says has become unreliable, spending more time in repairs than in active use.

During the summer months, Maryville reassigns two officers to patrol Mozingo Lake and the surrounding area. The officers currently share use of an old patrol boat and jet skis, but both have become outdated, prompting the need for updated equipment.

The purchase will be funded through a designated Mozingo Patrol Fund, along with a $10,000 grant secured by the Maryville Police Department.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — The City of Maryville is set to upgrade its lake patrol equipment with the acquisition of a new patrol boat for Mozingo Lake Park.At this week's city council meeting, members gave first-reading approval for the purchase of a 2025 model boat from Excel Boats, priced at approximately $55,000. The new watercraft will replace the city's aging patrol boat, which Police Chief Mike Stolte says has become unreliable, spending more time in repairs than in active use.During the summer months, Maryville reassigns two officers to patrol Mozingo Lake and the surrounding area. The officers currently share use of an old patrol boat and jet skis, but both have become outdated, prompting the need for updated equipment.The purchase will be funded through a designated Mozingo Patrol Fund, along with a $10,000 grant secured by the Maryville Police Department.

Maryville Moves Forward with Patrol Boat Purchase for Mozingo Lake

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Board of Education approved a $168,851 project to resurface the track at Jug Brown Stadium during its regular meeting Monday night, giving a green light to long-anticipated improvements for student-athletes and community users.

Board members also voted to maintain the daily substitute teacher pay rate at $175 for the 2025–26 school year, unchanged from the previous year.

Superintendent Tim Heckenlively informed the board that the Sixpence Board of Trustees approved a continuation grant for Falls City Public Schools totaling $425,856 for the next fiscal year. The grant amount represents a temporary reduction of $129,051 due to a delay in Child Care and Development Fund payments from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Heckenlively noted that if additional funding becomes available, Sixpence may issue an amended award to District 56.

The board also received an update from Transportation Director Tyler Bek, who shared concerns over upcoming federal safety regulations that may prohibit the use of 11-passenger vans. Falls City currently uses these vans for daily student transport and extracurricular travel.

To remain compliant, the district may need to transition to small buses or minivans in the future. Bek reported that the district's eight rural bus routes logged a total of 91,318 miles during the last school year.

The board will continue monitoring transportation policy developments and evaluate vehicle needs to ensure student safety and regulatory compliance.

FALLS CITY, Neb.&nbsp; — The Falls City Board of Education approved a $168,851 project to resurface the track at Jug Brown Stadium during its regular meeting Monday night, giving a green light to long-anticipated improvements for student-athletes and community users.Board members also voted to maintain the daily substitute teacher pay rate at $175 for the 2025–26 school year, unchanged from the previous year.Superintendent Tim Heckenlively informed the board that the Sixpence Board of Trustees approved a continuation grant for Falls City Public Schools totaling $425,856 for the next fiscal year. The grant amount represents a temporary reduction of $129,051 due to a delay in Child Care and Development Fund payments from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Heckenlively noted that if additional funding becomes available, Sixpence may issue an amended award to District 56.The board also received an update from Transportation Director Tyler Bek, who shared concerns over upcoming federal safety regulations that may prohibit the use of 11-passenger vans. Falls City currently uses these vans for daily student transport and extracurricular travel.To remain compliant, the district may need to transition to small buses or minivans in the future. Bek reported that the district's eight rural bus routes logged a total of 91,318 miles during the last school year.The board will continue monitoring transportation policy developments and evaluate vehicle needs to ensure student safety and regulatory compliance.

Falls City School Board Approves Track Resurfacing, Holds Substitute Pay, and Reviews Transportation Shifts

MOUND CITY, Mo. — The Holt County Commission has taken key steps toward enhancing public safety and law enforcement resources by signing off on documents to apply for Missouri Blue Shield Community designation and renegotiate its contract with Laptop Pitstop, the county’s provider of law enforcement computer systems and software.

If approved, the Blue Shield designation would allow Holt County to apply for state grants to purchase new equipment and provide officer training.

The Missouri Blue Shield Community Program, launched under Governor Mike Kehoe’s Safer Missouri initiative, recognizes cities and counties that demonstrate strong support for law enforcement and a clear commitment to public safety. Blue Shield status may also make counties more competitive when seeking future state funding.

The Missouri Department of Public Safety is expected to begin accepting grant applications for FY2026 in July. Holt County officials are optimistic the designation, if granted, will lead to important improvements for local law enforcement capabilities.

In addition to the Blue Shield efforts, commissioners approved a renegotiated agreement with Laptop Pitstop, which manages the county's law enforcement technology infrastructure, ensuring continued access to vital computer systems and software tools used by officers.

MOUND CITY, Mo. — The Holt County Commission has taken key steps toward enhancing public safety and law enforcement resources by signing off on documents to apply for Missouri Blue Shield Community designation and renegotiate its contract with Laptop Pitstop, the county’s provider of law enforcement computer systems and software.If approved, the Blue Shield designation would allow Holt County to apply for state grants to purchase new equipment and provide officer training.The Missouri Blue Shield Community Program, launched under Governor Mike Kehoe’s Safer Missouri initiative, recognizes cities and counties that demonstrate strong support for law enforcement and a clear commitment to public safety. Blue Shield status may also make counties more competitive when seeking future state funding.The Missouri Department of Public Safety is expected to begin accepting grant applications for FY2026 in July. Holt County officials are optimistic the designation, if granted, will lead to important improvements for local law enforcement capabilities.In addition to the Blue Shield efforts, commissioners approved a renegotiated agreement with Laptop Pitstop, which manages the county's law enforcement technology infrastructure, ensuring continued access to vital computer systems and software tools used by officers.

Holt County Pursues Missouri Blue Shield Designation, Renews Law Enforcement Tech Contract

MARYVILLE, Mo. — This year’s Nodaway County Fair will deliver three nights of live entertainment, each offering a unique performance for fairgoers to enjoy from July 10 through July 12.

The fun kicks off on Thursday, July 10, with a performance by Master Magician Keith Leff, who brings over 25 years of magical experience to the stage. Leff is a multiple-time winner of the International Brotherhood of Magicians' Close-Up Magician of the Year Contest and has earned top honors in both close-up and stage magic at the World Magic Expo. Also on Thursday, the Nodaway County Band will entertain the crowd with a variety of musical selections near the main stage.

On Friday, July 11, the spotlight shifts to The Casady Band, a local group known for their high-energy performances and acoustic sets. The band recently performed at the Mozingo Visitors Center Grand Opening and plays hits from legendary artists like Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, and Toby Keith.

Closing out the fair on Saturday, July 12, is Arena Rock Giants, a Kansas City-based tribute band that brings the sound and spirit of classic rock to life. Their setlist includes crowd favorites from bands like Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Van Halen, and more.

With something for everyone, the 2025 Nodaway County Fair promises a weekend of magic, music, and memories for the whole community.

MARYVILLE, Mo. — This year’s Nodaway County Fair will deliver three nights of live entertainment, each offering a unique performance for fairgoers to enjoy from July 10 through July 12.The fun kicks off on Thursday, July 10, with a performance by Master Magician Keith Leff, who brings over 25 years of magical experience to the stage. Leff is a multiple-time winner of the International Brotherhood of Magicians' Close-Up Magician of the Year Contest and has earned top honors in both close-up and stage magic at the World Magic Expo. Also on Thursday, the Nodaway County Band will entertain the crowd with a variety of musical selections near the main stage.On Friday, July 11, the spotlight shifts to The Casady Band, a local group known for their high-energy performances and acoustic sets. The band recently performed at the Mozingo Visitors Center Grand Opening and plays hits from legendary artists like Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac, Bob Dylan, and Toby Keith.Closing out the fair on Saturday, July 12, is Arena Rock Giants, a Kansas City-based tribute band that brings the sound and spirit of classic rock to life. Their setlist includes crowd favorites from bands like Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, the Rolling Stones, Van Halen, and more.With something for everyone, the 2025 Nodaway County Fair promises a weekend of magic, music, and memories for the whole community.

Nodaway County Fair to Feature Diverse Lineup of Entertainment July 10–12

SIDNEY, Iowa — Fremont County officials have closed the 260th Street Bridge between Bluff Road and 225th Street following the discovery of severe structural damage during an inspection Thursday morning.

With no immediate alternate in close proximity, drivers are advised to follow the same detour currently posted for the Highway 2 repair project—which directs traffic south through Hamburg and back north on Interstate 29 to rejoin Highway 2.

There is currently no estimate for how long the bridge will remain closed, as crews assess the extent of the damage and evaluate available repair materials. Work with consultants is going on to explore the possibility of removing the deck as part of the repair strategy.

Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the Fremont County Engineer’s Office at 712-374-2613.

SIDNEY, Iowa — Fremont County officials have closed the 260th Street Bridge between Bluff Road and 225th Street following the discovery of severe structural damage during an inspection Thursday morning.With no immediate alternate in close proximity, drivers are advised to follow the same detour currently posted for the Highway 2 repair project—which directs traffic south through Hamburg and back north on Interstate 29 to rejoin Highway 2.There is currently no estimate for how long the bridge will remain closed, as crews assess the extent of the damage and evaluate available repair materials. Work with consultants is going on to explore the possibility of removing the deck as part of the repair strategy.Residents with questions are encouraged to contact the Fremont County Engineer’s Office at 712-374-2613.

Bridge Collapse Forces Closure Near Highway 2 in Fremont County

BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a>

The Missouri House voted to set aside $1.5 billion of future tax revenue to finance stadium projects and provide $125 million of aid for communities hit by severe weather

The Missouri House closed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/27/missouri-governor-calls-special-session-for-kansas-city-stadiums-st-louis-disaster-funding/">the special legislative session</a>&nbsp;Wednesday with votes to finance&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/missouri-special-session-begins-with-lawmakers-split-on-stadium-funding-plan/">professional sports stadiums</a>&nbsp;in Kansas City and provide&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">tornado relief for St. Louis</a>.

Three special session bills, already&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/05/missouri-governor-allows-more-spending-property-tax-cap-as-he-pursues-stadium-deal/">approved in the state Senate</a>, are now in the hands of Gov. Mike Kehoe. He is expected to sign them quickly, putting the decision on whether to stay in Missouri in the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, who are also considering an offer from Kansas to cross the state line.

State Rep. Chris Brown, a Republican from Kansas City handling the stadium bill, asked his colleagues to do what they would do to retain any large employer.

“We really need to, or should, look at these franchises, not just as entertainment,” Brown said. “They are entertaining, obviously, but it’s an incredibly big business.”

Opponents of the legislation said it improperly benefits wealthy team owners at the expense of other Missourians. They also contend the bill is unconstitutional.

“The middle class, everyday Missourian is expected to pay for this,” said state Rep. Richard West, a Republican from Wentzville. “We’ve been promising for years for some form of tax relief or tax adjustment or something to ease the burden on what they have, and this is exactly the opposite of what we promised them to come up here to do.”

The measure to finance new stadiums was the most controversial of the three bills, passing on a 90-58 vote, with 32 Democrats joining with 58 Republicans to provide the majority. There were 13 Democrats and 45 Republicans who voted against the bill.

To finance the stadium construction, the bill sets aside tax revenue generated by the teams and economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman stadiums. Estimated at just under $1.5 billion over 30 years, the funding would pay for half the costs of improvements at Arrowhead and a new home for the Royals.

The Kansas offer would cover 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums, but it expires at the end of the month. The bill passed Wednesday requires financing from local governments, either in Jackson County, where the teams currently reside, or Clay County, which is trying to lure the Royals.

It is impossible to put a ballot measure before voters in the time remaining for the Kansas offer. House leaders from the Kansas City area had differing views on whether the teams should accept or reject Missouri’s offer now that it is a firm commitment but without knowing what voters will approve in the Kansas City region.

“I don’t know what the teams will do,” said House Speaker Jon Patterson, a Lee’s Summit Republican. “They have their own plan. I think that’s very unlikely, but I’m just worried about the things I can control, and teams are on their own schedule and will act accordingly.”

House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, said the teams should make a decision before June 30

“I would call on them to do so,” Aune said. “We bent over backwards here in the Missouri legislature to deliver them something by the end of their imposed deadline of June 30. And I would very much like for them to hold true to that deadline and let us know where they’re going before that.”

Chiefs owner Clark Hunt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02vF4BdALzcghzkkop9ZNFJeGpLRBZqwWMgXUgTPF9f7ALK1DCmLS9wqQnoFFCFHeEl&amp;id=61552483836166" target="_blank">issued a statement</a>&nbsp;thanking the legislature but made no commitment.

“The passing of this legislation is an important piece of the overall effort,” Hunt said. “While there’s still work to be done, this legislation enables the Chiefs to continue exploring potential options to consider remaining in Missouri.”

Patterson and Aune also disagreed on whether the extra disaster aid and property tax controls Kehoe added to the special session agenda had made the difference between success and failure on the stadium bill.

Patterson said each bill was considered on its own merits and that the property tax provisions may have cost votes. The stadium legislation won 103 votes in the House in May but the bill died in the state Senate.

“I’d like to think that people took a look at both those things on their own,” Patterson said. “I don’t think anybody here voted for one thing just because of the other.”

The House voted down two amendments so the bill did not require another vote in the state Senate. Patterson said it would have failed the second time around.

“A second Senate vote on the (stadium bill) would have been impossible, just the political climate after that vote,” Patterson said. “So we were very mindful of that. I thought if it goes back, it’s not going to pass.”

Aune said the additional disaster aid was essential to securing Democratic votes.

“If he wanted to get this stadium done, which is an economic development opportunity for the state and a priority of our governor, it was necessary to make sure that he could shore up those votes by making folks happy in other ways,” Aune said.

During debate on the special session spending bill, the House fell silent as state Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins, a St. Louis Democrat, described the devastation of her north St. Louis legislative district.

Collins was home on May 16 because the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/15/stadium-funding-gun-rights-law-among-casualties-of-missouri-senate-breakdown/">General Assembly adjourned early</a>&nbsp;instead of working to the final day allowed by the Missouri Constitution. She was in her car, preparing to attend a high school graduation when the tornado hit, she said.

“I watched a tornado rip through the middle of my house district,” Collins said. “I also watched it rip off my roof, and I watched the tornado rip off my neighbor’s roof. To this day, debris still sits in my front yard, and I’m a girl that has no insurance.”

Four of the five Missourians who died in the tornado lived in her district, Collins said.

The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. They are:

The provisions were demanded before the Senate vote because of uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado. Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19.&nbsp;

Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">approved both late Monday</a>, making federal aid for emergency housing and rebuilding available to individuals and providing money to reimburse the state and local governments for recovery costs.

State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson who is in her last term in the House, asked her colleagues to stand by St. Louis for the long-term.

“For those of us who will be termed-out next year,” Proudie said, “we need the rest of you who will be here five years later to continue to remember this day, to remember this time, to remember these last three weeks, to continue to pour help into these communities, into these people.”

The property tax cap in the stadium bill will be imposed in 97 counties. There would be 75 counties where basic tax bills would not increase more than 5% per year and 22 where no increase would be allowed.

The list excludes most of the largest counties of the state and many members opposed it because the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++3&amp;bid=32025&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">Missouri Constitution requires</a>&nbsp;property taxes to be “uniform upon the same class or subclass of subjects.”

Another constitutional objection was raised that the bill improperly aids a private entity by giving state support to the Chiefs and Royals, in violation of a provision&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++38(a)&amp;bid=31785&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">added to the Constitution in 1875</a>.&nbsp;

“I haven’t heard an argument yet that this bill is going to be upheld,” said state Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon. “I’ve only heard arguments that we should ignore the fact that it’s unconstitutional.”

The likelihood of the property tax provisions being blocked by the courts led at least one Democrat to vote for the bill. State Rep. Kathy Steinmetz of Columbia, speaking at a news conference after the vote, said she sees the cap as shifting the tax burden for schools to state taxpayers.

“They’re ending up paying more,” she said, “so that we can help the school districts that are not putting forth that local tax effort.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749680219632.png" alt=" State Rep. Chris Brown, R-Kansas City, speaks Wednesday in favor of the bill he handled that would finance new or improved professional sports stadiums in Kansas City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Chris Brown, R-Kansas City, speaks Wednesday in favor of the bill he handled that would finance new or improved professional sports stadiums in Kansas City (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/author/rudi-keller/">RUDI KELLER</a> <a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-senate-committee-advances-bill-to-ban-texting-while-driving/">Missouri Independent</a><h2>The Missouri House voted to set aside $1.5 billion of future tax revenue to finance stadium projects and provide $125 million of aid for communities hit by severe weather</h2>The Missouri House closed&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/27/missouri-governor-calls-special-session-for-kansas-city-stadiums-st-louis-disaster-funding/">the special legislative session</a>&nbsp;Wednesday with votes to finance&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/02/missouri-special-session-begins-with-lawmakers-split-on-stadium-funding-plan/">professional sports stadiums</a>&nbsp;in Kansas City and provide&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">tornado relief for St. Louis</a>.Three special session bills, already&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/06/05/missouri-governor-allows-more-spending-property-tax-cap-as-he-pursues-stadium-deal/">approved in the state Senate</a>, are now in the hands of Gov. Mike Kehoe. He is expected to sign them quickly, putting the decision on whether to stay in Missouri in the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals, who are also considering an offer from Kansas to cross the state line.State Rep. Chris Brown, a Republican from Kansas City handling the stadium bill, asked his colleagues to do what they would do to retain any large employer.“We really need to, or should, look at these franchises, not just as entertainment,” Brown said. “They are entertaining, obviously, but it’s an incredibly big business.”Opponents of the legislation said it improperly benefits wealthy team owners at the expense of other Missourians. They also contend the bill is unconstitutional.“The middle class, everyday Missourian is expected to pay for this,” said state Rep. Richard West, a Republican from Wentzville. “We’ve been promising for years for some form of tax relief or tax adjustment or something to ease the burden on what they have, and this is exactly the opposite of what we promised them to come up here to do.”The measure to finance new stadiums was the most controversial of the three bills, passing on a 90-58 vote, with 32 Democrats joining with 58 Republicans to provide the majority. There were 13 Democrats and 45 Republicans who voted against the bill.To finance the stadium construction, the bill sets aside tax revenue generated by the teams and economic activity at Arrowhead and Kauffman stadiums. Estimated at just under $1.5 billion over 30 years, the funding would pay for half the costs of improvements at Arrowhead and a new home for the Royals.The Kansas offer would cover 70% of the construction costs for new stadiums, but it expires at the end of the month. The bill passed Wednesday requires financing from local governments, either in Jackson County, where the teams currently reside, or Clay County, which is trying to lure the Royals.It is impossible to put a ballot measure before voters in the time remaining for the Kansas offer. House leaders from the Kansas City area had differing views on whether the teams should accept or reject Missouri’s offer now that it is a firm commitment but without knowing what voters will approve in the Kansas City region.“I don’t know what the teams will do,” said House Speaker Jon Patterson, a Lee’s Summit Republican. “They have their own plan. I think that’s very unlikely, but I’m just worried about the things I can control, and teams are on their own schedule and will act accordingly.”House Minority Leader Ashley Aune, a Democrat from Kansas City, said the teams should make a decision before June 30“I would call on them to do so,” Aune said. “We bent over backwards here in the Missouri legislature to deliver them something by the end of their imposed deadline of June 30. And I would very much like for them to hold true to that deadline and let us know where they’re going before that.”Chiefs owner Clark Hunt&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02vF4BdALzcghzkkop9ZNFJeGpLRBZqwWMgXUgTPF9f7ALK1DCmLS9wqQnoFFCFHeEl&amp;id=61552483836166" target="_blank">issued a statement</a>&nbsp;thanking the legislature but made no commitment.“The passing of this legislation is an important piece of the overall effort,” Hunt said. “While there’s still work to be done, this legislation enables the Chiefs to continue exploring potential options to consider remaining in Missouri.”Patterson and Aune also disagreed on whether the extra disaster aid and property tax controls Kehoe added to the special session agenda had made the difference between success and failure on the stadium bill.Patterson said each bill was considered on its own merits and that the property tax provisions may have cost votes. The stadium legislation won 103 votes in the House in May but the bill died in the state Senate.“I’d like to think that people took a look at both those things on their own,” Patterson said. “I don’t think anybody here voted for one thing just because of the other.”The House voted down two amendments so the bill did not require another vote in the state Senate. Patterson said it would have failed the second time around.“A second Senate vote on the (stadium bill) would have been impossible, just the political climate after that vote,” Patterson said. “So we were very mindful of that. I thought if it goes back, it’s not going to pass.”Aune said the additional disaster aid was essential to securing Democratic votes.“If he wanted to get this stadium done, which is an economic development opportunity for the state and a priority of our governor, it was necessary to make sure that he could shore up those votes by making folks happy in other ways,” Aune said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749680176449.png" alt=" State Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins, D-St. Louis, speaks Wednesday on the devastation her district has suffered after a tornado hit the area on May 16 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins, D-St. Louis, speaks Wednesday on the devastation her district has suffered after a tornado hit the area on May 16 (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Disaster relief</h2>During debate on the special session spending bill, the House fell silent as state Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins, a St. Louis Democrat, described the devastation of her north St. Louis legislative district.Collins was home on May 16 because the&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/15/stadium-funding-gun-rights-law-among-casualties-of-missouri-senate-breakdown/">General Assembly adjourned early</a>&nbsp;instead of working to the final day allowed by the Missouri Constitution. She was in her car, preparing to attend a high school graduation when the tornado hit, she said.“I watched a tornado rip through the middle of my house district,” Collins said. “I also watched it rip off my roof, and I watched the tornado rip off my neighbor’s roof. To this day, debris still sits in my front yard, and I’m a girl that has no insurance.”Four of the five Missourians who died in the tornado lived in her district, Collins said.The disaster relief provisions in the legislation address both the devastation of the May 16 tornado in St. Louis and the damages suffered by other Missourians in storms and flooding earlier in the year. They are:<ul>
 <li>$100 million in the spending bill for storm recovery in the city of St. Louis;</li><li>$25 million for home repairs and other housing needs through programs of the Missouri Housing Development Commission, available in any county included in a request for federal disaster aid;</li><li>A tax credit worth up to $5,000 for insurance deductibles paid for residential damage in an area included in a request for federal disaster aid. The legislation would allow $90 million in claims this year and $45 million per year for future years.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>The provisions were demanded before the Senate vote because of uncertainty about the federal response to the tornado. Kehoe asked President Donald Trump for a federal disaster declaration for the tornado on May 25 and for April 29 storms in Scott on May 19.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;<a href="https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/trump-allows-fema-aid-for-st-louis-tornado-recovery/">approved both late Monday</a>, making federal aid for emergency housing and rebuilding available to individuals and providing money to reimburse the state and local governments for recovery costs.State Rep. Raychel Proudie, a Democrat from Ferguson who is in her last term in the House, asked her colleagues to stand by St. Louis for the long-term.“For those of us who will be termed-out next year,” Proudie said, “we need the rest of you who will be here five years later to continue to remember this day, to remember this time, to remember these last three weeks, to continue to pour help into these communities, into these people.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749680145631.png" alt=" State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, D-Columbia, speaks on the House floor Wednesday about how property tax provisions in the stadium funding bill affects local schools (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent)." />
 <figcaption> State Rep. Kathy Steinhoff, D-Columbia, speaks on the House floor Wednesday about how property tax provisions in the stadium funding bill affects local schools (Annelise Hanshaw/Missouri Independent).</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Constitutional questions</h2>The property tax cap in the stadium bill will be imposed in 97 counties. There would be 75 counties where basic tax bills would not increase more than 5% per year and 22 where no increase would be allowed.The list excludes most of the largest counties of the state and many members opposed it because the&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=X++++3&amp;bid=32025&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">Missouri Constitution requires</a>&nbsp;property taxes to be “uniform upon the same class or subclass of subjects.”Another constitutional objection was raised that the bill improperly aids a private entity by giving state support to the Chiefs and Royals, in violation of a provision&nbsp;<a href="https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=III++++38(a)&amp;bid=31785&amp;constit=y" target="_blank">added to the Constitution in 1875</a>.&nbsp;“I haven’t heard an argument yet that this bill is going to be upheld,” said state Rep. Bill Hardwick, a Republican from Dixon. “I’ve only heard arguments that we should ignore the fact that it’s unconstitutional.”The likelihood of the property tax provisions being blocked by the courts led at least one Democrat to vote for the bill. State Rep. Kathy Steinmetz of Columbia, speaking at a news conference after the vote, said she sees the cap as shifting the tax burden for schools to state taxpayers.“They’re ending up paying more,” she said, “so that we can help the school districts that are not putting forth that local tax effort.”

Missouri special session ends with passage of KC stadium funding, disaster aid

The Missouri Department of Conservation has closed all shooting ranges at the Pigeon Hill Conservation Area in Buchanan County indefinitely.  

The Department says while the rest of the conservation area will remain open to the public, an investigation of the shooting ranges showed misuse which put public safety at risk forcing the closure.  

“Unfortunately, the actions of unsafe, irresponsible shooting range users created a situation that we could not allow to persist,” Justin McGuire, the Departments Hunter Education and Shooting Range Coordinator says in a news release. 

Despite increased patrols and other security measures the practices the department has deemed unsafe have continued.  Photographs from the department showed firearm damage to restrooms as an example. 

“This decision was not made lightly," Department Deputy Director Aaron Jeffries, “but it was the responsible course of action. Our first priority is the safety of the shooting range users and others in the area.” 

While the Pigeon Hill shooting ranges have been closed there are other areas available for target shooting, including the Elam Bend Conservation Area in Gentry County. 

You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749591163344.jpeg" alt="Firearm damage to regulation signs at Pigeon Hill Conservation Area, as photographed above, is further evidence of unsafe range behavior. Rogue shots outside of the designated target area create an unsafe environment for the public/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation" />
 <figcaption>Firearm damage to regulation signs at Pigeon Hill Conservation Area, as photographed above, is further evidence of unsafe range behavior. Rogue shots outside of the designated target area create an unsafe environment for the public/ Photo courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE The Missouri Department of Conservation has closed all shooting ranges at the Pigeon Hill Conservation Area in Buchanan County indefinitely. The Department says while the rest of the conservation area will remain open to the public, an investigation of the shooting ranges showed misuse which put public safety at risk forcing the closure. “Unfortunately, the actions of unsafe, irresponsible shooting range users created a situation that we could not allow to persist,” Justin McGuire, the Departments Hunter Education and Shooting Range Coordinator says in a news release. Despite increased patrols and other security measures the practices the department has deemed unsafe have continued. Photographs from the department showed firearm damage to restrooms as an example. “This decision was not made lightly," Department Deputy Director Aaron Jeffries, “but it was the responsible course of action. Our first priority is the safety of the shooting range users and others in the area.” While the Pigeon Hill shooting ranges have been closed there are other areas available for target shooting, including the Elam Bend Conservation Area in Gentry County. <figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749591227295.jpeg" alt="Firearm damage to a restroom building at Pigeon Hill Conservation Area, as photographed above, is one example of evidence of unsafe range behavior that led to the range closures. Firearms aimed anywhere besides the designated targets pose a serious threat to public safety./ Photo courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation" />
 <figcaption>Firearm damage to a restroom building at Pigeon Hill Conservation Area, as photographed above, is one example of evidence of unsafe range behavior that led to the range closures. Firearms aimed anywhere besides the designated targets pose a serious threat to public safety./ Photo courtesy of Missouri Department of Conservation</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

MO Department of Conservation closes Pigeon Hill shooting range indefinitely 

It's the perfect time to take in a movie during the K Jo 105 point 5 Canned Film Festival at Regal Hollywood Cinemas. 

Starting today, and every Tuesday and Wednesday through August 6th, Regal will show two movies where the price of admission is just a non-perishable food item. The movies are geared toward children. 

General Manager of Regal Hollywood Theatre Mike Glore says this is done as a tie in with Second Harvest Food Bank 

"To try to help people out that can use the help and it's a side benefit because people can come in to watch these movies for just a canned food donation, a nonperishable food donation per person that comes in the door, and it helps fill the pantries of those people in need," Glore tells KFEQmunnity host Brent Martin. 

$1 tickets can also be purchased in lieu of a food donation to see the movies, which will be donated to charity as well.  

Glore says the event is always well received 

"It's a double ended win in the fact that people who may not be able to afford a regular ticket can come out for next to nothing and watch a movie, and then what they're doing is also benefitting other people by bringing in those donations," Glore explains.  "So, everybody makes out and people stop by and buy their popcorn at our concession stand so we're good with that too." 

Glore says Mosaic will also be on hand during the event in the lobby, leading kids in some sort of healthy activity  

"Whether that may be talking to the kids about dietary, you know spin the wheel and tell me have you had this vegetable, or physical activities," Glore says.  "Sometimes they bring a set of, I believe it's pig lungs, and a doctor from Mosaic and they talk about respiratory and then of course our most popular week for activity is a bike blender." 

Glore says kids will ride on the bike blender and make some sort of fruit smoothie or salsa on the day, which is always fun.  

Sing 2 and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish kick off the film festival today and tomorrow with showings at 11 am.  

A schedule of movies can be found by visiting Regal's website as well as K Jo's, Second Harvest's, and the K Jo Facebook page.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749575398403.jpeg" alt="The K Jo 105.5 van sits at Regal Hollywood Theatres during the K Jo Canned Film Festival/ Photo courtesy of K Jo 105.5" />
 <figcaption>The K Jo 105.5 van sits at Regal Hollywood Theatres during the K Jo Canned Film Festival/ Photo courtesy of K Jo 105.5</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE Need a break from the summer heat? It's the perfect time to take in a movie during the K Jo 105 point 5 Canned Film Festival at Regal Hollywood Cinemas. Starting today, and every Tuesday and Wednesday through August 6th, Regal will show two movies where the price of admission is just a non-perishable food item. The movies are geared toward children. General Manager of Regal Hollywood Theatre Mike Glore says this is done as a tie in with Second Harvest Food Bank "To try to help people out that can use the help and it's a side benefit because people can come in to watch these movies for just a canned food donation, a nonperishable food donation per person that comes in the door, and it helps fill the pantries of those people in need," Glore tells KFEQmunnity host Brent Martin. $1 tickets can also be purchased in lieu of a food donation to see the movies, which will be donated to charity as well. Glore says the event is always well received "It's a double ended win in the fact that people who may not be able to afford a regular ticket can come out for next to nothing and watch a movie, and then what they're doing is also benefitting other people by bringing in those donations," Glore explains. "So, everybody makes out and people stop by and buy their popcorn at our concession stand so we're good with that too." Glore says Mosaic will also be on hand during the event in the lobby, leading kids in some sort of healthy activity "Whether that may be talking to the kids about dietary, you know spin the wheel and tell me have you had this vegetable, or physical activities," Glore says. "Sometimes they bring a set of, I believe it's pig lungs, and a doctor from Mosaic and they talk about respiratory and then of course our most popular week for activity is a bike blender." Glore says kids will ride on the bike blender and make some sort of fruit smoothie or salsa on the day, which is always fun. Sing 2 and Puss in Boots: The Last Wish kick off the film festival today and tomorrow with showings at 11 am. A schedule of movies can be found by visiting Regal's website as well as K Jo's, Second Harvest's, and the K Jo Facebook page.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1749575458520.jpeg" alt="The movie schedule for this years K Jo 105.5 Canned Film Festival.&nbsp; Movies will be shown at 11am each day, unless otherwise noted/ Photo courtesy of K Jo 105.5" />
 <figcaption>The movie schedule for this years K Jo 105.5 Canned Film Festival.&nbsp; Movies will be shown at 11am each day, unless otherwise noted/ Photo courtesy of K Jo 105.5</figcaption>
 </figure>You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

K Jo Canned Film Festival to benefit Second Harvest

If you're still looking for that perfect Father’s Day gift, the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph might have the right idea for you.  

On Saturday June 21st, the museum will host a whisky tasting and hog roast, with a Wood Hats and Spirits Tasting and food provided by Spanky and Buckwheats.  

By MATT PIKE If you're still looking for that perfect Father’s Day gift, the Albrecht Kemper Museum of Art in St. Joseph might have the right idea for you. On Saturday June 21st, the museum will host a whisky tasting and hog roast, with a Wood Hats and Spirits Tasting and food provided by Spanky and Buckwheats. Madison McKinley with Albrecht Kemper says this isn’t just an event for fathers. "That's why we made it the weekend after father's day, so it could also be for a fun date night or hang out with the boys, just do something fun," McKinley says on the KFEQmunnity show. "But if you are still looking for a Father's Day gift it's a great option." Executive Director Eric Fuson says they've been trying to think of some new things to do at the museum that people just can't do at home. "Something that's like oh I've always wanted to be a part of something like that but never knew anybody that would do it, so we thought well a whole hog roast would be kind of fun to give a whirl," Fuson explains. "And between that and the whiskey tasting and being kind of able to be out on the back patio and see some artwork as well, it's just going to be a fun evening for sure." In association with the event, a new exhibit will also open, “The Cabinet of Natural History- America's First Colored Lithographic project 1830-1833 will open the same day Fuson says the exhibit is a collection of printed pieces drawn on a stone, and many of these pieces are of the wildlife of the United States "These guys they were trying to kind of say hey here's what out there, here's what's going on, but some of the artists were still back in base basically, and they would bring back some of the animals or some sketches of them and things and they would have to go from there," Fuson says. "So, you'll see some things that you kind of think that looks a little funky, it's not quite exactly as natural as I'd like to see." The exhibit will run from June 21st through September 14th. The whiskey tasting and hog roast will run from 6 to 8pm on June 21st. Tickets are $50 a person and can be purchased by visiting the Albrecht's website or contacting the museum. You can follow Matt on X @KfeqMatt.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;