JEFFERSON REVIEW
THURSDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
Good morning, Jefferson County. This Thursday edition covers the kind of local work that often happens outside the spotlight but still shapes daily life across our communities: a firefighter promoted in Herculaneum, a school district working through safety and budget decisions, a Hillsboro graduate stepping into a key behind-the-scenes leadership role, and a local service leader reminding us that dignity can be just as important as assistance.
You will also find a public bid notice from Hillsboro R-3, an opinion submission on judicial elections, a State Senate campaign event built around local musicians and food donations, the latest weather outlook, upcoming government meetings, community events, and one very energetic adoptable dog looking for the right home. As always, thank you for reading, sharing, and helping The Jefferson Review keep local stories in front of local people.
The Board of Aldermen opened its meeting by recognizing public service before moving into city business, including street projects, a new budget, a dangerous tree and July 3 celebration plans.
Fox leaders addressed Prop M progress, security planning, curriculum updates, rising costs, teacher stress, student screen time and more than $6 million in budget cuts.
A Hillsboro graduate and longtime district employee takes on a leadership role focused on service, efficiency, people and the facilities work that keeps schools running.
This Those Who Serve profile looks at The Salvation Army Arnold Service Center and the quiet, personal work of helping Jefferson County neighbors through difficult seasons.
Inside this issue: a Hillsboro R-3 bid notice, a judicial elections opinion column, a Jeff Abney campaign event, the local forecast, upcoming government meetings, community events and this week’s adoptable pet.
County Dispatch
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A firefighter’s promotion, a dangerous 100-foot tree, major street projects, a new city budget and July 3 celebration plans all came before the Herculaneum Board of Aldermen, but the night began with a moment that reminded everyone what public service looks like up close.
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Fox C-6 leaders say Prop M projects are moving forward, but the district is also warning families and taxpayers about rising costs, flat revenue, teacher stress, student screen time and a budget that required more than $6 million in cuts to balance. Here’s what happened at the latest school board meeting — and why it matters for Fox families.
Hillsboro graduate Justin Lawson is stepping into the district’s Buildings and Grounds leadership role with a focus on service, efficiency, and the behind-the-scenes work that keeps classrooms comfortable, buildings running, and students ready to learn.
Advertisement for Bids
Hillsboro R-3 School District Food Service Equipment Procurement
Hillsboro R-III School District, located in Hillsboro, Missouri, is seeking bids for the purchase, delivery, and installation of food service equipment for the District Food Services Department.
Equipment includes conveyor ovens, heated holding cabinets, milk coolers, refrigerated display cases, and related delivery and installation services.
Bid Timeline
Return Date and Time: Before the close of business on Monday, July 6, 2026
Tentative Bid Award Date: Following review of submitted bids and Board approval
For project descriptions, specifications, and bid documents, please visit the Hillsboro R-3 School District website.
Bid Submission
Bids should be submitted electronically to:
Dr. Clay LaRue
[email protected]
Subject Line: Hillsboro R-3 School District 2026 Foodservice Equipment RFQ
Those Who Serve
At The Salvation Army in Arnold, Larry Hostetler’s work shows that restoring hope often begins with something simple: listening. From food, rent, utilities, and referrals to prayer, encouragement, and dignity, this Those Who Serve profile looks at the quiet work of seeing the person behind the crisis.
Opinions
In this opinion piece, Colby Smith-Hynes argues that judicial elections carry real consequences for families, victims, law enforcement, businesses, and every citizen who steps into a courtroom. The piece makes the case that judgeships are not entry-level positions and that voters should weigh legal experience, temperament, and trust in the courts before casting a ballot.
PRESS RELEASE
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Jeff Abney’s campaign will host the “Jeff for JeffCo Jam Session” June 27 at The Hideout in High Ridge, with food donations collected for the Jefferson County Rescue Mission.
Weather
Forecasts can change quickly. Check your preferred local weather source before making outdoor plans, especially when storms are possible.
Government Meetings
Adoptable Pet of the Week
HIHELLOOHMYGOSHHI!!! My name is… wait… was that a squirrel?! Sorry. Anyway. I’m a 3-year-old Pittie mix with the MOST beautiful dark chocolate coat ever. People say I almost look black until the sunshine hits me and then BAM 💥 — chocolatey perfection. I have approximately 47 thoughts at one time and ALL OF THEM are exciting!!! Do you like walks? GREAT because I LOVE WALKS. Actually… jogging. Running. Zooming. Sprinting. Maybe pulling you accidentally while I try to investigate every leaf, bug, smell, and cloud. Honestly, I’m pretty sure I could qualify for the Olympics if someone would just give me snacks and tell me I’m pretty. Speaking of snacks… I.LOVE.TREATS. You got treats? AMAZING. I’ll do tricks! I know: 🐾 Sit 🐾 Paw 🐾 Lay Down 🐾 Spin …although sometimes I do ALL OF THEM AT ONCE because my brain goes: “SITSPINPAWLAYDOWNTREATNOWPLEASE!!!”
The shelter humans think I’d be AMAZING at agility because I have SO MUCH ENERGY and I really love learning things. I just need someone active enough to keep up with me and help me channel my inner caffeinated kangaroo athlete. I also love other dogs, love people, and I’m secretly super affectionate once I burn approximately 900 calories. Then I become a snuggly little chocolate potato who just wants love So if you’re looking for a calm couch potato… HAHAHAHA absolutely not. But if you want a hilarious, smart, loving, high-energy best friend who will keep life exciting every single day, I’m your girl. My ID# is 835301.