O'Fallon Update Newsletter - Winter 2022

O’Fallon

•

•

•

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

Winter 2022-23 • www.ofallon.mo.us

Happy holidays to all in O’Fallon!

There’s nothing quite like the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! I love this time of year, as I’m sure many of you do too. Regardless of how we celebrate, it’s a time to gather with family and close friends and share special moments, exchange gifts and reflect on the many blessings we all enjoy.

One tradition I always look forward to is the annual Celebration of Lights. The display is open nightly through December 30, except on Christmas, and the Hennessy family will definitely be among the first to visit this dazzling festival.

Still shopping for that perfect gift? No matter what your loved ones want, you can find it right here in O’Fallon. By shopping local and keeping your gift buying “in the O,” you help our local businesses continue to thrive.

Of course, the season of giving is about more than presents. This is also a time for extraordinary acts of kindness and charity. I’m proud of the way our community rallies together to support one another, and I know the donations you make to the Cornucopia of Care Food Drive or when you pay your utility bill will help make the holidays a little brighter for families in need. If you’re looking to make a difference, our Volunteer Services department would love to meet you. Turn to page 7 to learn more.

There’s no predicting the weather, but O’Fallon’s snow removal program is geared toward keeping traffic moving. When a snow event occurs, our crews leap into action and work 24/7 to clear the roads. But, they need your help, and page 10 details what you can do to help our crews work safely and efficiently.

Following the New Year celebrations, some of our community’s favorite events are returning, like Nerf Warz on January 13 and the Daddy-Daughter Dance on February 4. And, I’d like to invite everyone to watch my State of the City address on January 6 as we look ahead to the future of O’Fallon.

My warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a joyous holiday season and a happy, healthy, successful New Year. From my family to yours, God bless you and have a very merry Christmas!

Sincerely, Bill Hennessy,

Mayor Join the OPD for Cocoa with a Cop

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

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

Steve Koskela 636-379-5586 skoskela@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

Ron Connell

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

Helpful Numbers

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

State of the City Address on January 6

On Friday, January 6, 2023, Mayor Bill Hennessy will deliver his annual State of the City Address at 10 a.m. in the City Council Chambers at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). The public is welcome to attend this yearly update. The address will also stream live and be available on-demand after the event at www.ofallon.mo.us

Interested in running for O’Fallon City Council?

If you are 21 or older, have resided in O’Fallon for at least one year and would like to serve on the O’Fallon City Council, you can file as a candidate for the April 4, 2023, election beginning Tuesday, December 6, 2022. Five City Council seats will be up for election for three-year terms, one each in wards 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Candidates can only file for a seat for the ward in which they live. See the notice below for more details about filing a declaration of candidacy.

CITY OF O’FALLON 100 North Main Street • O’Fallon, Missouri 63366

NOTICE OF ELECTION AND OF THE OPENING AND CLOSING FOR FILING DECLARATIONS OF CANDIDACY FOR ELECTIVE OFFICES IN THE CITY OF O’FALLON, MISSOURI, FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD APRIL 4, 2023.

Pursuant to Section 3.2, Article 8 and Section 14.5 of the Charter of the City of O’Fallon, Missouri, an election will be held on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, for the purpose of electing one (1) Member of the O’Fallon City Council from each of Wards 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 for a term of three (3) years at the general municipal election in April, 2023; and

Pursuant to Section 115.347 of the Revised Statutes of the State of Missouri and the O’Fallon City Charter no candidate’s name shall be printed on any official ballot unless his/her written, signed and sworn Declaration of Candidacy, including address, age, length of residency and the office for which he or she is running has been filed in the office of the City Clerk within the time allowed by law.

You are hereby advised that the first day for filing a Declaration of Candidacy for the April 4, 2023, election is from 8:00 a.m.

to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 6, 2022. Filing will close on the last day for filing for this election at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 27, 2022. A filing fee of $25.00 shall accompany each Declaration of Candidacy filed with the City Clerk.

Applications will be accepted in the City Clerk’s office beginning at 8:00 a.m. on December 6, 2022. All candidates must file in person and show proof of address and age. Candidates filing on December 6, 2022, will draw a number at the time they file their Declaration of Candidacy. Candidates receiving the lowest number, of the numbers pulled that day, will be the first candidate on the ballot for that position, all other numbers will be placed in order. For all filings after December 6, 2022, candidates will be placed in order on the ballot as received by the City Clerk in her office.

For information contact Deborah Ryan, MPCC City Clerk at 636-379-5555

Municipal News

Civic notices, community updates and more

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 2023 your voluntary donation supports Meals on Wheels. The nonprofit depends on voluntary donations for the hot, nutritious food delivered to homebound seniors who can’t easily make a meal.

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

employee?

Staff members across every City department take a great deal of pride in serving the O’Fallon community with courtesy and professionalism. City employees never expect a gift for performing their duties, and will never solicit gifts from residents.

However, if residents do wish to give a holiday gift to an employee, please keep this in mind:

• City staff may not accept gifts over $25 in value.

• Employees may not accept alcohol of any kind

New population signs to be installed in key areas around the City

For low-income residents and others who qualify for help, the City of O’Fallon offers a variety of programs such as zero-interest loans for home maintenance, down payment support for new homeowners, emergency homeless prevention programs and transportation to essential living destinations. All programs are subject to funding availability. Check your eligibility and learn more about available programs at www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

The Path of Heroes is a 7.8-mile route through the heart of O’Fallon that honors servicemembers who have fallen in the line of duty. The route passes several City facilities, like the Veterans Memorial Walk, CarShield Field and City Hall. Along the Path of Heroes, families may apply to have one of their family members honored on memorial signs listing the name and rank of those who have fallen.

There is no cost to families to have their loved ones honored along the Path of Heroes. To participate, families must fill out the Path of Heroes Application Form. Please review the rules and policies governing this program before submitting your application, which are available online at www.ofallon.mo.us/ streets

For more information or to submit your application, please contact Deputy City Administrator Tom Drabelle at 636-3795508 or tdrabelle@ofallon.mo.us.

Following the results of the 2020 U.S. Census, O’Fallon is rolling out new population signs to welcome visitors to our community. These signs will be installed at locations where visitors are likely to enter O’Fallon’s borders, such as along highways and interstates, and will replace our existing (and out-of-date) population signs. The City is currently working with the Missouri Department of Transportation to finalize the locations of these signs and to set a date for installation. Look for them to be installed in high visibility areas soon!

We need your help! Look for this symbol throughout the O’Fallon Update and Parks & Rec Guide to find events that need a helping hand. Join our volunteer team by visiting www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer.

www.ofallon.mo.us

Thinking about giving a holiday gift to an O’Fallon

Help a local charity when you pay O’Fallon

Grants and assistance programs can help eligible residents with home maintenance, transportation and other needs

O’Fallon’s Path of Heroes honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice

Experience the magic of the holidays this December!

From the legendary Celebration of Lights to a variety of smaller-scale experiences, O’Fallon has everything your family needs to get into the holiday spirit.

The holidays come alive at Celebration of Lights at Fort Zumwalt Park

Nightly November 25 – December 30 (except December 25) Fort Zumwalt Park

Drive-Through – Advance tickets required

It just wouldn’t feel like the holidays without a trip through O’Fallon’s dazzling Celebration of Lights! With more than a million twinkling lights and sparkling holiday scenes designed and funded by local organizations, this festive one-mile route will put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Started in 1991, this holiday tradition attracts more than 13,000 vehicles each year, and more than 10,000 individuals take a walk under the shimmering canopy of lights during the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll.

Drive through the park in your own vehicle and experience the display with your family. Celebration of Lights is open from 6–9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and Friday and Saturday from 6–10 p.m.

Tickets are $12 per vehicle and must be purchased in advance online at www.ofallon.mo.us/COL, via phone at 636474-2732 or in person at the Renaud Center. Large van and limo tickets are $20 per vehicle. Bus tours are also welcome; tickets can be purchased online at the Celebration of Lights webpage. Once purchased, tickets are good for any night of the festival, no reservations needed!

Please note: Celebration of Lights is closed to vehicles on November 28, December 5, December 6 and December 12. The entire display is closed on Christmas Day, December 25.

Specialty Rides

Advance reservations required

See Celebration of Lights from a whole new perspective with specialty rides!

Horse-drawn carriage rides – Snuggle up under a blanket with some hot cocoa and experience Celebration of Lights in a spectacular horse-drawn carriage. Carriage rides are available nightly, except December 5, 6 and 25.

• 12-passenger carriage – $145

• 6-passenger carriage – $65

• Children ages 2 and under ride free if seated on a paying adult’s lap

Prices do not include gratuity for your driver. To schedule a ride, please contact Brookdale Farms at 636-938-1005.

Hayrides – Available Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Bring the whole family for a delightful hayride underneath the lights. Hayrides run hourly at 6 p.m., 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. The cost is $150 for groups of up to 20. Riders may bring blankets for extra warmth. Book your reservations online.

City Train – November 28 and December 12 only

Two nights only! Enjoy a relaxing train ride through the lights. Each carriage holds up to five adults and five children. Reservations are required. Schedule your City Train ride online. Make sure to bring a blanket for extra warmth during the ride!

Don’t forget the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll!

Advance tickets required

Monday, December 5, and Tuesday, December 6 6–8:30 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park

The lights are most beautiful when you can take your time and soak them in! You’ll see whimsical holiday scenes, visit with Santa and experience beautiful fireworks over the lake at 7 and 7:45 p.m.

Tickets are $5 per person (ages 2 and under are free) and must be purchased in advance at www.ofallon.mo.us/COL, via phone at 636-474-2732 or in person at the Renaud Center.

Parking with free shuttle service is available at First Baptist Church of O’Fallon, 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway and O’Fallon Christian Church, 9380 Veterans Memorial Parkway.

More holiday fun!

Snaps with Santa

Saturday, December 3

Bring the whole family out to O’Day Lodge to get your picture taken with jolly old St. Nicholas! Then, chat with Santa and enjoy a goodie bag made just for you Register by November 28.

Paws and Claus

Saturday, December 3

Santa hasn’t forgotten about your favorite pup! If you want to include your furry friend in this year’s photos, this is the event for you. Plus, all the good doggies will get a special treat (or two) from Santa himself! Register by November 28.

Santa’s Winter Wonderland

Saturday, December 10

Kids ages 2-12 will join Santa at the Krekel Civic Center for a candy cane hunt, workshop activities and tasty treats, plus a photo opportunity at the event. Register by December 5.

Snowball Blizzard Blitz

Friday, December 16

Test your aim at the Renaud Center’s Snowball Blizzard Blitz! Participants will have a blast with snowball fights and winter games, and some famous Christmas guests may make an appearance, too! Register by December 6.

Space is limited. Register online at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec

Upcoming Events

www.ofallon.mo.us/calendar

State of the City Address

Friday, January 6

10 a.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre

Watch it live or on-demand at www.ofallon.mo.us/watch

Nerf Warz • Ages 4–14

Friday, January 13

6 & 7:15 p.m., Renaud Center

Join us for this family-friendly Nerf Warz event! Enjoy constant shooting in our inflatable Nerf Field, along with a few games between matches. Each player will be supplied with a pair of safety glasses and an armory of foam darts, but participants must bring their own Nerf Gun capable of shooting 7.2cm foam darts. No outside darts will be allowed.

Daddy-Daughter Dance • Ages 2–12

Saturday, February 4

6 p.m., O’Day Lodge

Purchase your tickets early for this popular event for young ladies and their dads, uncles, grandpas, or special escort. Treat your special girl to a lovely evening filled with fun, music, dinner and dancing. Formal dress is required at this popular event, and a professional photographer will capture these special moments for an additional fee. No admission at the door; register today at www.renaudcenter.com.

The Wedding Expo at O’Day

Sunday, February 19 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., O’Day Lodge

Get started planning your fairytale wedding at O’Day Lodge! Brides and grooms are invited to come chat with wedding planners, florists, DJs, rental companies, caterers, photographers and everyone else who can help make your special day unforgettable. Plus, enjoy giveaways, food samplings, music and more — all in O’Fallon’s most beautiful wedding venue.

Underwater Egg Hunt

Friday, March 24 5:30 & 7 p.m., Renaud Center

• Ages 4–12

Easter arrives early at the Renaud Center! Kids will have an eggciting time searching the warm waters of the Natatorium for Easter eggs. Make sure you keep an eye out for the golden egg, which will get you a special prize at the end! Eggs will be placed in parts of the pool to accommodate all age groups. Bring goggles and a waterproof basket or container for gathering eggs. Pre-registration is required; the deadline to register is Monday, March 20.

And, we didn’t forget about our youngest egg hunters! For ages 1-5, check out the Jr. Underwater Egg Hunt, which begins at 11 a.m. on Friday, March 24.

Volunteer Opportunities

Cornucopia of Care Food Drive

Through Friday, December 9

Spread holiday cheer in our community and support families in need with donations of non-perishable food and personal care items for local area food pantries. Please visit www.ofallon. mo.us/cornucopia-of-care to view a list of collection sites.

Winter Blood Drive

Friday, January 13

11 a.m. – 3 p.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month. Make a lifesaving appointment via the City’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us/ volunteer, or 636-379-5417. All inquiries regarding blood donation eligibility should be directed to ImpactLife at www. bloodcenter.org or 800-747-5401.

MLK Day of Service

Monday, January 16

10 a.m. – noon, Krekel Civic Center

Build on Dr. King’s life and teachings with service projects that create a sense of community and shared responsibility. Join us as we work together to promote kindness by creating flowers and cards for residents living in senior care facilities. Preregistration is required at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer.

Alternative Spring Break

Wednesday, March 22

9–11 a.m. & 1–3 p.m.

Spend your spring break participating in environmental activities that benefit O’Fallon’s parks and the thousands of visitors who spend time in them! The morning session will see volunteers of all ages help prevent erosion in one of O’Fallon’s many parks. During the afternoon session, high school and college students will work alongside Landscaping staff to prepare seedlings for spring planting. Register by March 1 at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer.

Roscoe’s Den

Trash, recycling and yard waste announcements

Winter yard waste pick-up schedule

Weekly yard waste collection stops December 9 and resumes March 14, 2023. There will be monthly yard waste pick-up throughout the winter. For residents who have yard waste service on their account, yard waste will be picked up on your regular yard waste day during the weeks of: Dec. 20–23 • Jan. 17–20 • Feb. 14–17

Residents who do not have yard waste service on their account can call to schedule a free yard waste pick up, which is offered twice per calendar year. Call Environmental Services at 636-272-0477 to schedule a pick-up.

O’Fallon’s bi-monthly free electronics & appliance recycling events

Saturday, December 3 and February 11

8 a.m. – noon, parking lot southwest of CarShield Field

You can bring outdated or broken electronics and appliances to O’Fallon’s Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event from 8 a.m. to noon. The drop-off 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 drop-off is free except for televisions and items containing freon. For a detailed list of items that can be recycled and future event dates, visit www. ofallon.mo.us/electronics-recycling

Free bulk waste drop-off

Saturday, December 10 and February 18

7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Environmental Services Transfer Station

During this event, O’Fallon trash customers can drop off certain items that are too large to fit in trash containers at the City’s waste transfer station. The transfer station is located at 1572 Progress West Lane. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/bulk-waste for a list of rules and acceptable items.

Helpful trash and recycling service reminders

• Drivers can only service city-provided carts. Personal carts or containers will not be serviced for trash or recycling.

• Drivers will only service one cart per residence unless the resident is paying for extra service.

• Drivers will not service carts that have been reloaded after the cart has already been serviced on your pickup day.

• All waste must be inside of your cart with the lid closed. Nothing outside of the cart can be collected.

• Only trash carts with gray lids will be serviced on trash day. Recycling carts with blue lids may not be used for trash.

Winter Trash and recycling holiday schedule

• Thanksgiving, Thursday, November 24

Service moves to the following day

• Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24

No change in service

• Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25 No change in service

• New Year’s Day, Sunday, January 1 No change in service

• Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, Monday, January 16 No change in service

• Presidents Day, Monday, February 20 No change in service

After the holidays, recycle your evergreen tree

Free drop-off options

O’Fallon residents can drop off live Christmas trees, free, between December 26 and January 20 at parking lots in Ozzie Smith Sports Complex (890 T.R. Hughes Boulevard) and Sports Park (3589 Highway K).

The parks will be open dawn to dusk. Only live evergreen trees without decorations can be dropped off, so please remove all ornaments, tinsel, lights, string and wire. No artificial trees, wreaths, shrubs, plastic bags or yard waste is allowed.

Curbside Christmas tree pick-up option

For a fee of $10 per tree, O’Fallon trash customers can have their live holiday trees picked up at the curb. Schedule your pick-up by calling 636-272-0477. The cost will be added to your next bill. Trees will be scheduled for pick up on Thursdays, starting December 29 through January 19. Only live evergreen trees will be picked up, and all decorations must be removed before setting the tree at the curb. Please do not place trees in plastic bags.

Recycle unwanted light strands

Recycle light strands free of charge through January 20. Simply remove the lights from the trees and drop them off at the Renaud Center or the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). Miniature and LED light strands can be dropped into recycling receptacles “as is.” To avoid injury from bulb breakage, remove larger light bulbs from C-7 and C-9 strands before dropping off the light strands. Please do not tie or bag the light strands; simply drop the loose strands into the receptacle.

Police Bulletins

Observant. Professional. Dedicated www.ofallon.mo.us/pd

Join Team O’Fallon for the Polar Plunge

Saturday, February 4

10 a.m. (plunge at noon), 100 Cognac Court, Lake Saint Louis

During the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser, costume-wearing teams plunge bravely, if briefly, into the frigid waters of Lake Ste. Louise while onlookers cheer them on. Proceeds from the Plunge benefit Special Olympics Missouri’s year-round program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. For more information, including how to support O’Fallon’s team, visit www.somo.org.

Register for the Citizens Police Academy

February 28 – April 6

7–9 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays O’Fallon Justice Center, 1019 Bryan Road

Residents who are age 18+ are invited to apply for the O’Fallon Citizens Police Academy. The six-week program offers hands-on training and a chance to ride along on patrol, plus discussions of police investigations, less-lethal weapon use, drug awareness, K9 demonstrations, departmental drone usage and more.

Applications will be available after January 1 at www.ofallon.mo.us/citizens-police-academy, or they can be picked up at the O’Fallon Justice Center.

Meet our dedicated Parks Officer

O’Fallon is nationally recognized as one of America’s safest cities — and now, thanks to a partnership between O’Fallon Police and the Parks Department, our parks will continue to enhance that reputation.

Recently, O’Fallon police officer Sid McDonald was selected to serve as our department’s first dedicated Parks Officer. With more than 21 years of experience serving the community, Officer McDonald was a natural choice for the position, and his oversized personality has already made him a favorite among parkgoers of all ages.

“What I do is travel from park to park, touching base with the kids and the parents,” said Officer McDonald. “We’re here to protect and serve, but I also want families to know they can talk to us and have a good time with us.”

“We were excited to partner with the police department,” said Jeremy Wolfmeyer, Parks Superintendent. “This is a great opportunity to improve the quality of our parks.”

The dedicated Parks Officer position continues our police department’s focus on community policing. Make sure you say “hi” to Officer McDonald if you see him out and about in one of our many parks!

www.ofallon.mo.us

Winter Weather

How you can help keep O’Fallon roads clear this winter

When winter weather hits, O’Fallon’s crews work 24/7 to clear more than 700 “lane miles” of pavement and get traffic moving. As a resident, the number one thing you can do to assist snow crews is never park on the street when winter weather is in the forecast. Keeping vehicles off the streets allows City snow plows free access to clear the roads safely and efficiently. Please remember to always stay clear of plows.

Residents can also help protect their property and keep streets clear by following these guidelines:

1. Don’t park on City streets

By City ordinance, no street parking is allowed during winter weather events. No service will be provided if the crews feel they cannot safely plow your street because of parked cars or other obstructions. Violators may be towed at the owners’ expense.

2. Don’t push snow into the street

Placing snow in a public street is against City ordinance and may result in a fine. Plus, it makes clearing the streets more time-consuming for crews.

3. Clear your own sidewalks, mailbox, driveway or parking lot Residents and business owners are required to keep their own driveways, sidewalks, mailboxes and private streets clear of ice and snow. The City cannot plow privately-owned streets or lots.

4. Keep your mailbox and driveway clear

Although there’s no perfect solution to prevent plowed snow from blocking mailboxes and driveways, the problem can be minimized with room for snow discharged by plows. You can make space by clearing snow from the end of your driveway and along your curb, preferably 10 feet to the left of your driveway (as you face the street).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I call to report an area that needs plowing?

Yes, O’Fallon’s Winter Weather Control Hotline is put into action when the forecast calls for eight or more inches of snow and snow has begun to accumulate. At that time, you can call 636-379-3826 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. for snow or ice removal questions or concerns. Please note that the purpose of the City’s winter weather control program is to provide safe access, not 100% clear pavement. For questions at other times, please call the City’s Streets Division at 636-379-3807.

Which roads are cleared by O’Fallon’s crews?

The City of O’Fallon is responsible for clearing most streets within O’Fallon City limits, but not all. To keep traffic moving, the City emphasizes first clearing major thoroughfares for which it has responsibility, including Mexico, Feise and Bryan roads and WingHaven Boulevard. Snow removal crews also are dispatched to residential areas when snow begins to accumulate.

The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) is responsible for clearing the following federal and state roads: I-70, I-64, highways 364, K, N, 79, DD, South 364 Outer Road, Technology Dr., East and West Terra lanes, Drennan Parkway and sections of Veterans Memorial Parkway. The City of O’Fallon cannot clear these areas. If you have questions or concerns about these roads, contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASKMoDOT (1-888-275-6636).

I live on a cul-de-sac. How will the City deal with the snow on my street?

During light snow events (typically 4” or less): Crews will clear a 20’ path around the perimeter of the cul-de-sac with the blade of the plow angled toward the middle. This will allow easy access to driveways.

During heavier snowfalls (typically, more than 4”): Because a substantial amount of snow can build up in cul-de-sacs during heavy snowfalls, additional snow removal efforts will be put into place when heavy snow hits. Initially, plows will create a passable lane through the cul-de-sac so residents can drive in and out of the street. Then, as other snow removal efforts wind down, crews will return to move snow into available green space. This allows crews to focus on clearing O’Fallon’s streets as quickly and efficiently as possible and avoid inadvertently creating large snow windrows in cul-de-sacs.

Is

If your mailbox or landscaping is damaged by a City-operated snow plow, please call the City’s Streets Division at 636-3793807 to request repairs or replacements. Or visit www.ofallon. mo.us/citizens-first-center. Landscape replacement is not fully guaranteed; however, staff will work with you to ensure a satisfactory outcome.

Please note, O’Fallon’s municipal code prohibits putting basketball hoops and other obstructions in the City’s public right-of-way (mid-street to about 10 feet behind the curb). The City will not pay for damage to those items.

Can I get a ticket if I park on the street?

Yes. According to City ordinance, during any winter weather event when there has been accumulation of snow, ice or other frozen precipitation, a parking prohibition goes into effect on all City streets to allow safer and more efficient travel for residents, the public, snow plows and emergency response vehicles. Tickets may be issued to vehicles in violation.

For more information on O’Fallon’s winter weather control program, please call the Streets Division at 636-379-3807 or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/snow

Water and Sewer

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

The City of O’Fallon is urging the community to take action this holiday season by properly disposing of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) used in cooking, instead of putting them down the drain. FOG can look harmless as liquids, and many people dispose of these substances down their drains. 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. Clogs and backups are also common issues in the pipes inside your home, leading to costly repairs.

Fats, oils and grease are a by-product 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.)

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

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

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

• 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.

Veterans Report

O’Fallon Veterans Assistance Office

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)

The Veterans Assistance Office is staffed by U.S. military veterans who are dedicated to helping all U.S. military veterans and their families regarding eligibility or entitlement to VA benefits. Any veteran or family member in need of information regarding military benefits is welcome.

Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony

Sunday, December 4 1 p.m., Krekel Civic Center

Each year, Pearl Harbor Survivors, veterans and community members from all over the nation come together to honor and remember the 2,403 service members and civilians who were killed during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. An additional 1,178 people were injured in the attack, which permanently sank two U.S. Navy battleships (the USS Arizona and the USS Utah) and destroyed 188 aircraft.

Join the O’Fallon Veterans Commission in memory of the victims and survivors of the bombing of the U.S. Pacific Fleet at a special Pearl Harbor Day ceremony at O’Fallon’s Krekel Civic Center. The ceremony begins at 1 p.m., and the entire community is invited to attend.

Memorials in O’Fallon

• 9-11 Memorial: A Tribute to First Responders, City Hall

• O’Fallon Veterans Memorial Walk, 800 Belleau Creek Rd.

• Omer J. Dames War Memorial, Dames Park

www.ofallon.mo.us Winter 2022-23

the City responsible for damage to my mailbox, decorative landscaping or basketball hoop?

Omer J. Dames War Memorial

Calendar

November

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

24 City Hall, Renaud Center CLOSED

25 Celebration of Lights opens

28 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

December

1 Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

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

Snaps with Santa, 10 a.m., O’Day Lodge

Paws & Claus, 1 p.m., O’Day Lodge

4 Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony, 1 p.m., Krekel Civic Center

5 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

5-6 Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll, 6 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park

6 Candidate filing closes for O’Fallon City Council

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

7 Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m.

9 Cornucopia of Care Food Drive closes

Weekly yard waste collection ends

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

Santa’s Winter Wonderland, 9:30 a.m., Krekel Civic Center

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 6 p.m.

13 Parks & Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

14 Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

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

16 Snowball Blizzard Blitz, 6 p.m., Renaud Center

19 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

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

21 Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

23 City Hall CLOSED

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.

25 Christmas, City Hall, Renaud Center and Celebration of Lights CLOSED 26 City Hall CLOSED Tree Recycling begins 30 Celebration of Lights ends

January

2 City Hall CLOSED 5 Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m. 6 State of the City Address, 10 a.m., City Hall 9 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 6 p.m. 10 Parks & Recreation Board, 7 p.m. 11 Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

12 City Council meeting, 7:30 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m. 13 Winter Blood Drive, 11 a.m., City Hall

Nerf Warz, 6 p.m. & 7:15 p.m., Renaud Center

16 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, City Hall CLOSED Fort Zumwalt Park opens to vehicle traffic MLK Day of Service Projects Veterans Commission, 7 p.m. 17 Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council, 5:30 p.m. 18 Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m. 23 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center 25 Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3 p.m. 26 City Council meeting, 7:30 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m. 30 Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

February

2

Polar Plunge, 10 a.m., Lake Saint Louis

Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m. 4

Daddy-Daughter Dance, 6:30 p.m., O’Day Lodge 7 Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m. 8 Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

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

11 Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event, 8 a.m. – noon, CarShield Field parking lot 13 Senior Resident Advisory Committee 15 Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Visit the City of O’Fallon’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us, for the latest news and meeting agendas. Most meetings are broadcast live and on-demand at www.ofallon.mo.us/watch