O'Fallon Update Newsletter - Autumn 2021

The Official Quarterly Publication of the City of O’Fallon, Missouri

Autumn 2021 • www.ofallon.mo.us

Make lasting memories this autumn Learn how to save lives during an emergency Attend this free, hands-on workshop on disaster preparedness! People from all walks of life are invited to learn basic disaster response skills through O’Fallon’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

This three-day course begins October 8 and will cover disaster preparation and survival, disaster psychology, basic medical treatment, fire safety, and light search and rescue skills.

Classes meet from 6–10 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/cert to learn more.

In this issue 2

Public Assistance

3

Police Bulletins

4

Autumn Fun

5-6 Upcoming Events

Volunteer Opportunities

7

Patriotic Events

Veterans Report

8-9 Renew O’Fallon 10 Roscoe’s Den 11 Shape of Community 12 Calendar

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s we enter fall, I am grateful for the cooler temperatures and the memories that were created over the summer.

O’Fallon is blessed with wonderful autumns, and as life settles into a new rhythm and children bustle off to school once again, we should take a moment to stop and enjoy the beautiful red, orange and gold leaves throughout our community.

Fall is a season of change, thankfulness and gratitude, and it also brings with it the excitement of new beginnings. The O’Fallon City Council recently adopted a new Comprehensive Plan that will shape our community for years to come, and the City is also transitioning to a new software platform that will improve nearly every facet of how residents and businesses interact with City staff. I am proud of the work everyone at City Hall has done in making this new online portal a reality for our community.

The changing of the leaves also signifies the arrival of some of my favorite events of the year, and our beautiful parks will make a great backdrop for our outstanding lineup of fall festivals. I can’t wait to see families shopping for fine art at Fall into the Arts on September 26, and we’ll also enjoy plenty of Halloween-themed events, starting with the Renaud Center’s Rec-or-Treat on October 1 and Pumpkin Plunge on October 8.

Fall also brings patriotic events, starting with the Patriot Day ceremony honoring first responders at 8:30 a.m. on September 10 at City Hall, followed by a solemn Remembrance Walk. O’Fallon also hosts a POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony on September 17 and honors Veterans Day with a ceremony on November 11. I’m always heartened to see how many members of our community come out to recognize America’s armed forces, and I know our veterans appreciate it, too.

Finally, as we approach the holiday season, I hope your family will make plans to join Santa and me at our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at City Hall on November 17.

As you search for the perfect gifts for your loved ones, remember to keep it in the ‘O’ and shop O’Fallon first. On behalf of the O’Fallon City Council, I wish you and your family a wonderful season of fun and excitement.

Sincerely,

Bill Hennessy, Mayor

Explore O’Fallon’s new Comprehensive Plan online Following nine months of work, the O’Fallon City Council has passed the new 2021 Comprehensive Plan, which will bolster economic development throughout the City, provide guidance for residential growth and ensure O’Fallon maintains a high quality of life. Read the full Comprehensive Plan online at www.ofallon.mo.us/planning.

Fall into the Arts returns on September 26! See page 4.

Elected Officials

Mayor Bill Hennessy 636-379-5500 bhennessy@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 1 Councilmembers Dave Hinman

636-379-5581 dhinman@ofallon.mo.us

Deana Smith

636-379-5582 dsmith@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 2 Councilmembers Tom “Duke” Herweck 636-379-5583 therweck@ofallon.mo.us

Lisa Thompson

636-379-5591 lthompson@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 3 Councilmembers Dale Kling

636-379-5586 dkling@ofallon.mo.us

Nathan Bibb

636-379-5585 nbibb@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 4 Councilmembers Jeff Kuehn

636-379-5587 jkuehn@ofallon.mo.us

Jim Ottomeyer

636-379-5580 jottomeyer@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 5 Councilmembers Debbie Cook

636-379-5588 dcook@ofallon.mo.us

Katie Gatewood

Helpful Numbers

636-379-5584 kgatewood@ofallon.mo.us

Citizens First Center 636-379-5553

City Hall

636-240-2000

Police (Non-emergency) 636-240-3200

Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477

O’Fallon Water & Sewer 636-281-2858

O’Fallon to launch a new unified plan, permit and license system to better serve residents If you’ve ever requested a permit to install a new deck or remodeled your basement, you’ve likely interacted with the City’s online plan, permitting and licensing portal.

In order to provide better service to residents and businesses in O’Fallon, the City is planning to launch a new system that offers numerous improved features that will make managing online city business much easier. The new portal makes it easier than ever to request City services and complete licensing and permitting applications.

The rollout of our new plan, permit and licensing system is tentatively scheduled for later this fall.

When it launches, staff will need a brief period to shut down our current system and transition records and data to the new system. Once the new system goes live, users will be able to log in and continue utilizing City services as normal. Get updates online at www.ofallon.mo.us.

Public Assistance The Public Assistance Department administers grants used to revitalize neighborhoods, expand affordable housing and improve community facilities and services. Learn more and check your eligibility for programs at www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

Home Improvement Loan Program Resident homeowners who need to have an aging heating/cooling unit replaced, a roof repaired, new windows installed or are in need of home repairs are encouraged to check into O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Program. A limited amount of funds are available each year to provide fiveyear forgivable loans of up to $5,000 to help with home maintenance and code violations.

Applicants must have owned and lived in their home for at least a year, be current on their mortgage and real estate taxes and meet household income limits and other criteria to qualify.

Applications must be received by October 29, 2021, for consideration.

O’Fallon’s Siding Program O’Fallon’s Siding Program helps low- to moderate-income resident homeowners protect their homes through grants of up to $10,000 to assist with the replacement or repair of aging siding.

Grants are disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. Applications must be received by October 29, 2021, for consideration.

COVID Emergency Homeless Prevention Residents who are behind on their mortgage, rent or utility bills can apply for assistance through O’Fallon’s CDBG Emergency Homeless Prevention Assistance Program. Residents may be eligible for up to $6,000 in assistance to help catch up on bills and remain in their homes.

To get started, dial 2-1-1 to reach our assistance partners and choose your language. Enter your zip code, press 3, and leave a message. A case manager will return your call within 72 hours.

Police Bulletins Observant. Professional. Dedicated.

www.ofallon.mo.us/pd

New high-tech body cameras to provide better service and transparency for residents In an effort to maintain its reputation as one of the best police forces in America, the O’Fallon Police Department has purchased body cameras for every officer. These cameras will bring a new level of transparency to police operations in O’Fallon and offer a number of critical safety features for our officers.

The new body camera system can be automatically activated when an officer is assigned to a call and uploads all footage to a secure cloud environment, saving footage as it’s recorded.

The system can also detect when a service weapon has been drawn from its holster, sending automated alerts to dispatch and nearby officers. Because the camera is mounted inside an officer’s uniform, it cannot be dislodged in a struggle, and acts as a GPS beacon if an officer is injured or has a medical emergency.

These body cameras were made possible thanks to funds raised through O’Fallon’s use tax, which voters passed in 2019. The officers of the O’Fallon Police Department appreciate that this technology is now available to them and know that this new system will allow their policework to speak for itself.

O’Fallon PD unveils new Defensive Tactics Room to offer advanced training to officers In police forces across America, “use of force” has always been a critical concern. While officers are highly-trained in the use of pepper spray, tasers and firearms, the reality of modern policework is that most incidents involve hands-on use of force. Statistics show that the lower an officer’s skill level, the higher the chance an officer will panic and use more force than necessary or freeze and use less.

In order to offer advanced hand-to-hand training to officers, the O’Fallon Police Department has constructed a purposebuilt 2,000-sq.-ft. training area in consultation with defensive tactics experts and external martial artists. This state-of-the-art facility is being paired with world-class training programs to give officers the skills and experience necessary to effectively control resisting subjects.

No other police agency in the region has access to a training facility like this, and this facility was also made possible thanks to funds raised by O’Fallon’s use tax. This is another example of how the O’Fallon Police Department and the City of O’Fallon remain ahead of the curve when it comes to training and providing the best possible service to our citizens.

Protect your family and valuables with these tips from the O’Fallon PD St. Charles County is not immune to crime, and criminals are seeking unlocked cars and unattended valuables throughout the region. The picture above, taken from a residential surveillance system, was shared with O’Fallon Police, and they would like to remind you how you can help keep your family safe.

Crimes like this occur because criminals know they will find items like guns, purses, money, wallets and more in unlocked cars. As a resident, here’s what you need to keep in mind: • If you see anything like this, do not confront the criminals.

It’s not worth risking your safety for some loose change that may have been left in the console of your car. Call 911!

• Register your home security camera with the O’Fallon Police Department. If officers believe your camera may have filmed a crime, they can contact you to request footage.

Head to www.ofallon.mo.us/pd for more information.

• Do not leave valuables, especially guns, in your vehicle.

Do not leave keys or vehicles unlocked. If the criminals know they won’t find anything in this area, they are less likely to come here.

The O’Fallon Police Department takes the safety and security of our residents extremely seriously, and we would like to remind you that if you see something suspicious in your neighborhood, contact the department immediately.

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Autumn Fun Celebrate the season with wonderful festivals in O'Fallon Fall into the Arts

Food Truck Fright

Sunday, September 26 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., O'Day Park

Friday, October 15 6–8:30 p.m., Dames Park

Beautiful O’Day Park will become even more scenic on Sunday, September 26, as O’Fallon hosts the Fall into the Arts festival.

Featured fine and folk artists will be displaying and selling their works in several mediums, including painting, drawing, sculpture, metal arts and jewelry, pottery and more.

Head to Dames Park for the fall version of our popular Food Truck Frenzy.

We’ll have a great time enjoying delicious food truck fare by SNS Goodies, Angie Burger, Doughboys Wood Fired Pizza and more, plus great drinks by Beer Outside.

But the creativity doesn't stop with the visual artists! Local breweries and artisan food vendors will be on hand selling their creations, and there will be live music courtesy of Ryan Marquez and One Too Many A Cappella throughout the event. Plus, young art lovers can enjoy free kids’ activities during the festival.

Admission and parking are free. Check out the most up-to-date list of artists and vendors at www.ofallon.mo.us/fall-arts.

We also will have music from a DJ. Don’t forget to sign your kids up for the Egg-tober Glow Hunt (page 5) for even more fun!

Admission and parking to the Food Truck Fright is free, and you can see the whole tasty lineup of food trucks on deck at www.ofallon.mo.us/food-truck-frenzy.

Boo & Brews Thursday, October 21 6–9 p.m., O’Day Park Amphitheater Ghouls and goblins (and other adults looking for a fun event) are invited to join O’Fallon’s first-ever Boo & Brews festival in O’Day Park! The biergarten opens at 6, and guests can test their skills at fun halloween-themed games like eyeball pong while enjoying brews from Petrichor Brewery.

Felix & Fingers Dueling Pianos will take the festival to the next level at 6:30 p.m. with a free concert of upbeat party tunes and halloween classics. Food trucks, dessert vendors and other refreshments round out the event.

Grab a seat on O’Day Lodge’s spacious deck or bring chairs and blankets and find your perfect spot, and prepare for a spooky good time with music, beer and games at Boo & Brews!

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Upcoming Events Pool Paws Dog Swim

Celebration of Lights

Saturday, September 11 9:30–11:30 a.m., Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center

November 26 – December 30 Nightly, Fort Zumwalt Park

Swim with your furry friend and raise money for the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation, too! All dogs must be accompanied by an adult and have written proof of rabies vaccinations. Admission is $13 for you and your dog, and $7 for each additional person.

Make plans to join us in Fort Zumwalt Park for an incredible holiday light display as we celebrate the 30th anniversary of this O’Fallon tradition! Celebration of Lights is full of fanciful displays. designed and funded by local organizations, churches and businesses.

Started in 1991, the dazzling lights attract more than 12,000 vehicles each year. Get your tickets starting November 8 at www.ofallon.mo.us/celebration-of-lights.

Rec-or-Treat Friday, October 1 6–8 p.m., Renaud Center Come to the Renaud Center for Halloween treats and enjoy free games, prizes, contests, 10% off memberships and much more!

Turn to page 11 for more information.

Pumpkin Plunge Friday, October 8 5:30 p.m. & 7 p.m., Renaud Center Join us for our 4th annual Pumpkin Plunge! Your child will get to plunge for their perfect pumpkin in our pool “patch” and then decorate it. This event offers two time slots. Get signed up to plunge at www.renaudcenter.com.

Egg-tober Glow Hunt Friday, October 15 6:30–8 p.m., Dames Park Join us at Dames Park for our famous Egg-tober Glow Hunt!

Search for glowing eggs throughout the park and redeem them for prizes. The glow will be available any time between 6:308pm. Registration is $9, and pre-registration is recommended.

Tree Lighting Ceremony

Celebrating 30 years of holiday magic!

Specialty rides See the lights from a horse-drawn carriage, sleigh or the City train! These special rides tend to fill quickly. Reservations are required. See www.ofallon.mo.us/celebration-of-lights for more details, including pre-purchase information.

Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll Monday, December 6, and Tuesday, December 7 6–8:30 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park Visitors will walk along the illuminated route, enjoy holiday music, visit with Santa and enjoy a fireworks show over Lake Whetsel. Food will be on sale from O’Fallon-based non-profit organizations. Fireworks start at 7:25 p.m.

Tickets go on sale November 8 and must be purchased in advance. Holiday Stroll tickets may be purchased online at www.ofallon.mo.us/holiday-stroll or at the Renaud Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle. There will be no sales at the gate.

Wednesday, November 17 6–8 p.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Ring in the holiday season with this O’Fallon favorite! Gather your family and join Mayor Bill Hennessy in counting down to the lighting of the great tree outside City Hall, officially welcoming Santa to O’Fallon. With plenty of children’s activities, musical performances, holiday vendors and a chance to meet Santa, there’s something for the whole family!

In the spirit of giving, please bring donations of canned and boxed food and personal care items to share with O’Fallon residents in need through our local food pantries.

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Volunteer Events O’Fallon’s 21st Annual Make a Difference Day Saturday, October 23 9–11 a.m.; lunch 11 a.m. – noon Families, organizations and individuals are encouraged to participate in community volunteering at roadside cleanups and in O’Fallon’s parks. Help keep O’Fallon a clean environment where nature can thrive. To register, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ volunteer or call 636-379-5417.

Cornucopia of Care Food Drive Monday, November 1 – Friday, December 10 You and your family are invited to help spread holiday cheer in our community and support local families in need with donations of non-perishable food and personal care items for area food pantries. For more information on how you can be a part of this year’s Cornucopia of Care Food Drive, contact Volunteer Services at volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or call 636-3795417. Please visit www.ofallon.mo.us/cornucopia-of-care to view an updated list of collection sites.

20th Annual National Family Volunteer Day Saturday, November 20 9–11 a.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Bring joy to others this holiday season through volunteering!

Families are invited to spend the morning working together to help strengthen our community by sorting, boxing and delivering food and personal care items donated through the Cornucopia of Care Food Drive. Families also can decorate Thanksgiving-themed placemats for citizens living in residential care facilities and Meals on Wheels recipients. To register for this event or for more information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ volunteer or call 636-379-5417.

Winter Blood Drive Friday, January 7 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month. Each volunteer donor can help as many as four people survive a lifethreatening trauma or health condition. Make an appointment at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer, or contact Volunteer Services at volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5417. All inquiries regarding blood donation eligibility and processes should be directed to ImpactLife (formerly Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center) at www.bloodcenter.org or 1-800-747-5401

On Stage in O'Fallon All productions are held on stage at O'Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street, O'Fallon 63366. Tickets can be purchased at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec, in person at the Renaud Center or at the box office before each show.

• $12 general admission • $10 seniors (ages 55+), children and students (ages 6–17) • $5 children (ages 2–5) no charge for children under 2 and held on lap • $2 additional charge at tickets purchased at the box office

O'FallonTheatreWorks presents Little Women October 15–17 and 22–24 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. on Sundays Louisa May Alcott’s immortal 19th century novel takes a spirited leap onto the OTW stage, telling the story of a family struggling to make their way in a time when opportunities for women are few and the American Civil War is raging across the land.

As the inventive and adventurous March sisters navigate that timeless journey between youth and adulthood, they’ll each discover what it means to be a strong woman and how important it is to love one another through the many triumphs, hardships and mistakes that come with growing up in the 1860s.

Little Women has been inspiring audiences for more than 150 years. See this American classic with the “sisters” in your life!

indicates opportunities for volunteers.

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Contact Volunteer Services at 636-3795417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us.

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Patriotic Events

Veterans Report

Patriot Day Ceremony

O’Fallon Veterans Assistance Office

Friday, September 10 8:30 a.m., 9-11 Memorial at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre

Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (except holidays) 636-379-5577 or veteransaffairs@ofallon.mo.us 1st floor, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

Please join us in honoring St. Charles County’s first responders and remembering the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

Remembrance Walk Saturday, September 11 9 a.m., 9-11 Memorial at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre Reflect on the sacrifices made on September 11, 2001, and remember those who continue to inspire and unite us with a 1-mile Remembrance Walk. Pre-registration online at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer or call 636-379-5417.

POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony Friday, September 17 7 p.m., Veterans Memorial Walk This moving candle-lighting ceremony is dedicated to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil.

The Veterans Assistance Office is staffed by veterans who are dedicated to helping all U.S. military veterans and their families regarding eligibility or entitlement to VA benefits.

Veterans Administration launches new web feature and phone number for better service The Veterans Administration (VA) has launched new services designed to ease frustrations faced by veterans trying to connect with services and resources.

Beneficiaries may now update their contact information via their VA.gov profile, and the changes will synchronize across VA networks. Through their profile, veterans can enter demographic information — including a phone number, email address, home address and disability ratings — and have it change across networks addressing health care, disability compensation, pension benefits, claims and appeals, and the Veteran Readiness and Employment program. Previously, if a veteran needed to change any demographic information, they were required to call each individual VA network where their information was on file.

Additonally, the administration has launched the My VA Hotline, which will serve as the starting point for all VA contact centers and will help veterans find the right person to address their needs. Veterans can call 1-800-MYVA411 (1-800-698-2411) and press 0 to be immediately connected with a customer service agent. Agents can answer questions or connect veterans with appropriate VA experts. The hotline operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Tips for your DD-214

Veterans Day Ceremony Thursday, November 11 11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Walk

Your DD-214, Discharge Papers and Separation Documents, is the most important military document you will ever receive.

This form serves as your proof of military service and is often used to verify military service for benefits such as the GI Bill, VA loans, VA medical benefits, retirement benefits, burial benefits, employment and membership in veteran’s organizations.

America has an estimated 20,000,000 veterans, and we owe each of them a “thank you” for our country’s freedom. Please join us at this ceremony in honoring and thanking our nation’s veterans for keeping our country safe.

Your DD-214 should be treated like any other important document. Keep your original copy in a lockbox, fireproof safe, safety deposit box or another secure location. Should you need a replacement of your DD-214, you will need to contact the National Archives at vetrecs.archives.gov.

Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony

The O’Fallon Veterans Assistance Office is able to assist veterans and family with procuring a replacement DD-214.

Sunday, December 5 1 p.m., Krekel Civic Center Join the O’Fallon Veterans Commission in memory of the victims and survivors of the bombing of the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

www.ofallon.mo.us Autumn 2021

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Renew O’Fallon Your tax dollars at work!

www.ofallon.mo.us/projects

I-70 Improvements continue After the successful conclusion of the first phase of the I-70 Corridor Improvements Project, work has begun on the second phase of this important renovation project. Phase 2 will see the completion of the Texas U-Turn on the west side of Highway K, as well as improvements to the outer road system between Woodlawn Avenue and Highway K. This project will begin later this fall, and construction will conclude in 2022.

Highway DD Improvements have begun In cooperation with MoDOT, the Highway DD Improvements project will help meet the growing needs of the area. This project includes improvements to the Highway DD corridor near the I-64/DD interchange and will include the addition of traffic lights and a roundabout, widening the roadway and adding traffic lanes. Construction has begun and is expected to conclude soon.

Mexico Road improvements continue This multi-year project involves the resurfacing of Mexico Road from Highway K to Bryan Road. Included in this renovation are ADA upgrades at public street intersections throughout the roadway and the installation of a new pedestrian bridge over Belleau Creek near Woodlawn Avenue. The resurfacing will provide the Mexico Road corridor with improved ride quality and longevity, and the ADA upgrades and pedestrian bridge aim to improve O’Fallon’s accessibility and pedestrian infrastucture.

Look for construction to begin soon.

WingHaven Blvd. resurfacing underway Work continues on resurfacing WingHaven Boulevard, and crews are adding stormwater drainage improvements between Highway N and Hammack Drive as well. Throughout the project, ADA-accessible features will be added along this important roadway, as will bike and pedestrian improvements.

Construction is expected to begin this fall and will conclude in early 2022.

Sign up for project update notifications at www.ofallon.mo.us/projects.

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O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Project brings new capabilities to O’Fallon To meet new Missouri Department of Natural Resources requirements, O’Fallon’s Wastewater Treatment Plant is undergoing renovation. As part of this project, the facility is receiving important upgrades to its concrete biologic nutrient removal tank, and the cascade aerator along Peruque Creek is also being improved. Our contractors have successfully completed the exterior of a new blower facility, and electrical work progresses around the site. This major expansion project is expected to continue through 2022.

2021 Concrete Program expanded Thanks to residents passing a use tax in 2019, O’Fallon was able to greatly expand our investment in the 2021 Concrete Program.

When completed this fall, this year’s Concrete Program will have repaired over 40,000 square yards of concrete in neighborhood streets and roads all across O’Fallon.

2021 Asphalt Program targets new areas For 2021, our Asphalt Program has targeted more than 16,000 square yards of pavement area, starting with Phoenix Parkway and Redhawk Parkway, and will update curb ramps as well.

Please do not post signs on public property The City of O’Fallon has ordinances prohibiting the placement of private signs, even temporary ones, on public property or infrastructure. This includes signs for missing pets and garage sales. In addition to being illegal, posting signs can cause unsightly damage to sign posts and lamp posts from tape residue and peeling paint.

Stormwater Management Storm drain maintenance on private property You can help prevent pollution and clogging of the storm sewer system and protect your property. Keeping storm sewers free of pollution and clogs from leaves, sticks and more ensures the system can function as designed and helps minimize water buildup that may damage property.

Storm drains are designed to capture stormwater runoff and are either located at the curb of the street or in backyards. Because the stormwater runoff is not treated or filtered, pollutants can exit the system downstream and cause issues in local steams and retention/detention basins.

Water and Sewer Protect your home and sewer system by keeping “FOG” out of the sewer!

Take action this fall to protect your home and sewer by properly disposing of fats, oils and grease (FOG) used in cooking, instead of disposing them down the drain. FOG can look harmless when it begins as a liquid. When they cool, however, FOG becomes thick and sticky, adhering to the pipes of our sewer system and potentially causing clogs, basement backups and sewer overflows. FOG also can cause issues in the pipes of your home, producing clogs or backups.

Fats, oils and grease are a byproduct of cooking and are mostly found in the following: • Meats • Cooking oil • Lard or shortening • Butter or margarine • Mayonnaise • Food scraps • “Hidden oils” (salad dressings, syrup, batter, cheese and whipping cream, etc.)

In order for the storm drains to work properly, they need to be kept clear of debris and other obstacles that may obstruct their openings. If the openings become clogged, this could increase the risk of localized flooding in yards, causing property damage.

You can do your part to help sewer systems work properly by using the disposal methods provided below:

How can you help?

• Never pour FOG down your sink drain, garbage disposal or the sewer system

• Keep these openings clear. Clearing debris from in front of storm sewers will help them function as intended.

• Do not plant landscaping around the openings; stay at least three feet away from openings.

• Do not deposit grass clippings, leaves or branches into storm sewers. Large accumulations can cause pipes to become clogged and back up and flood properties or streets.

• Remove trees and bushes directly next to storm sewers before they get large enough to cause potential damage to the storm sewer structures or block flow due to their size.

If a larger concern arises, call the Stormwater Maintenance Division at 636-379-7632.

• Wipe visible FOG and food scraps from plates, pots, and utensils into the trash for disposal.

• Cool it, can it and trash it. Pour cooled FOG into a container such as empty pet food, vegetable or coffee cans. Allow the material to cool and solidify. Secure the lid and place it in the trash when full.

You can help a local charity when you pay O’Fallon utility bills Residents can easily assist local charities by donating $1, $3 or $5 per billing cycle when they pay their City water, sewer and trash collection bills. Each year, the O’Fallon City Council designates a charity to receive the funds, and for 2021 it is Meals on Wheels. The nonprofit depends on voluntary donations to deliver nutritious food to homebound seniors who can’t easily make a meal.

To register for the donation program, simply call 636-379-5566 or email kpieper@ofallon. mo.us.

www.ofallon.mo.us Autumn 2021

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Roscoe’s Den Trash, recycling and yard waste announcements Free Shred-It Day for O’Fallon residents

Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Events

Saturday, September 18 8 a.m. – noon, Environmental Services building

Saturday, October 2 and December 4 8 a.m. – noon, parking lot southwest of CarShield Field

O’Fallon’s Environmental Services Department offers a “Shred-It Day” where anyone can bring in boxes of paper to be shredded in a secure environment. The event will take place on Saturday, September 18, from 8 a.m. until noon at the Environmental Services building at 1550 Progress West Lane.

Bring outdated or broken electronics and appliances to O’Fallon’s Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Events! The drop-off events will be held in the parking lot at the southwest corner of T.R. Hughes Blvd. and Tom Ginnever Avenue, adjacent to CarShield Field. The events are free except for the following:

To participate, place the documents in cardboard bankers’ boxes, or cardboard boxes of a similar size, and drive up to the facility and drop them off. Please make sure the boxes are not too heavy to lift or overfilled. The service is free for residents for up to five bankers-sized boxes. Additional boxes will be accepted for a cost of $5 per box. Non-residents may also drop off paper for shredding at a cost of $5 per box.

• LED/LCD/Plasma televisions = $20

Residents must bring photo identification showing O’Fallon residency and all trash customers must have their account in good standing in order to receive the free services.

For a detailed list of items that can be recycled and future event dates, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/electronics-recycling.

Or, call Environmental Services at 636-272-0477.

Please do not bring computer discs or hanging file rods. If you can tear it, then we can shred it with this complimentary service.

It is okay for documents to have staples or paper clips.

Free Bulk Waste Drop-off Events

Recycle responsibly! Learn more at www.ofallon.mo.us/recycling.

• CRT Monitors = $5 • CRT TV’s 26” or less = $30 • CRT TV’s 27” or greater = $50 • Wood console and big screen/projection TVs = $50 • Any freon containing unit = $10

Saturday, October 9 and December 11 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Environmental Services Transfer Station Make plans to drop off your oversized trash at our free Bulk Waste Drop-off events! O’Fallon trash customers can drop off certain items that are too large to fit in trash containers, such as carpeting or furniture, at the City’s waste transfer station. There is no charge for trash customers. The transfer station is located at 1572 Progress West Lane. For a full list of eligible items and event rules, please visit www.ofallon.mo.us/bulk-waste.

Make your next renovation project easier with roll-off container rentals Planning on redoing your kitchen? Need to clean out the basement or garage? A large roll-off trash container delivered right to your driveway can make these big jobs much easier!

Roll-off containers may be used for most trash, excluding tires, appliances, liquids, car batteries and hazardous waste. In addition, roll-off containers may be used for yard waste projects, but yard waste may not be combined with other trash.

Container sizes vary with 10–, 20– and 30–yard containers currently available. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/roll-off or call 636-272-0477 to reserve a roll-off container.

10

Calendar September

City Hall has new business hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

13

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 9 a.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

6-12 Renaud Center closed for annual maintenance

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

7

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

15

Food Truck Fright, 6–8:30 p.m., Dames Park

8

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Egg-tober Glow Hunt, 6:30–8 p.m., Dames Park

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

15-17 O’FallonTheatreWorks presents Little Women, City Hall

9

City Council meeting, 7 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m.

18

Code Enforcement Docket, 4:30 p.m., Justice Center

10

Patriot Day Ceremony, 8:30 a.m., 9-11 Memorial at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

11

Remembrance Walk, 9 a.m.; 9-11 Memorial at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

19

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.

Pool Paws Dog Swim, 9:30 a.m., Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Ctr.

20

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

13

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

21

Boo & Brews, 6 p.m., O’Day Park

14

Parks & Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

15

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

17

POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony, 7 p.m., Veterans Memorial Walk

18

Shred-It Day, 8 a.m., Environmental Services Building

20

Code Enforcement Docket, 4:30 p.m., Justice Center

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

21

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.

22

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Court Payment Docket, 1:30 p.m., Justice Center

23

City Council meeting, 7 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m.

26

Fall into the Arts, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., O’Day Park

27

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

22-24 O’FallonTheatreWorks presents Little Women, City Hall 23

National Make a Difference Day, 9 a.m.

25

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

27

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Court Payment Docket, 1:30 p.m., Justice Center

Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3 p.m.

28

City Council meeting, 7 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m.

November 1

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

2

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

3

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m.

Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

9

Parks & Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

10

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

11

Veterans Day Ceremony, 11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Walk

15

Code Enforcement Docket, 4:30 p.m., Justice Center

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

City Council meeting, 7 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m.

16

Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m.

17

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Court Payment Docket, 1:30 p.m., Justice Center

Tree Lighting Ceremony, 6 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

8-10 CERT Training, Justice Center

19

The Gym Floor is Lava!, 6 p.m. & 7:15 p.m., Renaud Center

9

Free Bulk Waste Drop-off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Environmental Services Transfer Station

20

National Family Volunteer Day, 9 a.m.

26

Parents’ Day Out, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Renaud Center

12

Parks & Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

Celebration of Lights opens

29

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

October 1-30 Hayrides in Fort Zumwalt Park 2

Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event, 8 a.m. – noon, CarShield Field parking lot

4

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

6

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m.

7

Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

8

Jr. Pumpkin Plunge, 11 a.m., Renaud Center

Pumpkin Plunge, 5:30 p.m. & 7 p.m., Renaud Center

8

City Council meeting, 7 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m.

12

Unless otherwise noted, public meetings are held at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street. Municipal Court is held at the O’Fallon Justice Center, 1019 Bryan Road. Meeting times and dates are subject to change; for the most current information, please refer to www.ofallon.mo.us/calendar.