JEFFERSON REVIEW
MONDAY EDITION
From the Editor’s Desk
This Monday’s edition brings together stories of perseverance, public accountability, local enterprise, and the events bringing neighbors together across Jefferson County. We begin with the personal journey behind a new Missouri law and continue with important developments from recent council meetings in Festus and Arnold.
You will also meet a local travel professional helping families plan memorable vacations, find community events for the weeks ahead, and meet a gentle young kitten searching for a patient and loving home. With dangerous heat expected throughout the week, please take care of yourself and check on neighbors who may need a helping hand.
State Representative Cecelie Williams celebrates HB 1908 taking effect after a deeply personal experience inspired a bipartisan effort to change Missouri law.
As debate over the proposed data center continues, council members discuss possible property tax relief, lower water rates, and other ways residents could benefit.
Residents returned to City Hall following a contentious meeting, and Councilman Brad Cary was allowed to ask his questions before the fiscal year 2027 budget received unanimous approval.
Meet Jen Miles, a Jefferson County travel professional who combines firsthand experience with personal service to help clients plan vacations built around what matters most to them.
Make plans for live music at Tanglefoot Dance Hall, explore upcoming community events, review this week’s government meetings, and meet our Adoptable Pet of the Week.
Live At Tanglefoot
Live music is coming to Tanglefoot Dance Hall for the first time!
Presley Aaron takes the stage Friday, September 4, for three hours of live music in the heart of Festus. Admission is $10.
Could this be the beginning of something new on Festus Main Street? Find the event details and make plans to be there.
Tanglefoot Dance Hall
201 E. Main St., Festus, Missouri
County Dispatch
What began as a painful personal experience for State Representative Cecelie Williams became a change in Missouri law. Supporters gathered in Festus to celebrate HB 1908 taking effect and the long, bipartisan journey that brought the bill across the finish line.
Festus council members are looking at ways residents could directly benefit from the controversial data center project, including possible property tax relief and lower water rates. The meeting also brought new decorum rules, an arrest outside City Hall, annexation votes, budget action, and other regular city business.
After a contentious budget meeting earlier in the week, more residents returned to Arnold City Hall to address Mayor Bill Moritz’s handling of the discussion and urge council members to protect their authority. This time, Councilman Brad Cary was allowed to ask his budget questions before the council unanimously approved the city’s fiscal year 2027 budget.
Business Spotlight
For Jen Miles, a memorable vacation is about more than choosing a destination. Through Miles to Explore Travel Agency, she combines her own love of adventure with professional expertise and a white-glove approach to help clients create trips built around the experiences that matter most to them. From customized itineraries and once-in-a-lifetime Alaska adventures to being there when unexpected travel disruptions arise, Miles focuses on the details that can turn a trip into a lasting memory.
Weather
A Heat Advisory is in effect for Jefferson County from Monday afternoon through Friday evening. Forecast temperatures may vary slightly across the county. Check the National Weather Service for the latest conditions and weather alerts.
Government Meetings
Adoptable Pet of the Week
Meet ID# 841375, a stunning little grey tabby who is ready to steal your heart.
This sweet 4-month-old girl may be a little shy at first, but once she feels safe in your arms, she turns into a complete purr machine. She came to us with her two handsome brothers, but because of their age, they had to be separated. Since then, she has spent plenty of time playing with other kittens in our playroom.
She can be a bit of a hideaway, but every now and then, you'll catch her enjoying happy moments with her kitten friends. She's the kind of girl who needs a little patience and understanding, but once she trusts you, the connection is incredibly special.
She may not be the first kitten to run up and greet you, but she has the kindest, gentlest soul and is absolutely worth the wait. She is looking for a patient, loving family who will give her the time she needs to come out of her shell and show just how wonderful she truly is.
Her adoption fee is just $135 and includes her vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick treatment, microchip, and spay.
If you're looking for a sweet girl who will reward your patience with endless purrs and love, ID# 841375 may be your perfect match. Stop by and meet this precious little lady today.