O'Fallon Update newsletter - Spring 2016 by City of O'Fallon

O’Fallon Update The Official Quarterly Publication of the City of O’Fallon, Missouri Spring 2016 • www.ofallon.mo.us

Make a difference, become a Parks Partner Key vendors named for new Justice Center Soon, bulldozers and earth movers will dominate the landscape along Bryan Road just south of Veterans Memorial Parkway as ground preparation for the new O’Fallon Justice Center will begin this spring. When completed, the state-of-the-art 80,000 square foot facility will be the new home of the O’Fallon Police Department and Municipal Court. The City has chosen Wilson Estes Police Architects as the architect and McCarthy as the construction manager acting as the owner's agent for the project. The facility is in the final design stages and bidding for the first construction activities is anticipated to begin soon. The $28 million project is slated for completion in late 2017.

In this issue 2 4 7 8 9 10 11 12

Municipal News Upcoming Events Public Works Police Bulletins Veterans Corner Roscoe’s Den Rascals Baseball City Calendar

he fun and excitement of spring is here and O’Fallon has so much going on. Popular events such as Food Truck Frenzy and the RSC 5K Challenge Run are back this spring, and check out our Parks & Rec Guide to see some of the new programs we are offering! This year, we’re combining two of our most popular spring events, Founders’ Day and Garden Expo, into one great day of fun at Fort Zumwalt Park. Come out on Saturday, May 7, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., and experience the history of O’Fallon and the fantastic spring air with live demonstrations, kids' activities, gardening experts and more. O’Fallon’s Public Works Fair is on Wednesday, May 18, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in the parking lot at T.R. Hughes Ballpark. This is a great opportunity for young kids to see big trucks and machinery up close and play games that teach traffic safety. Also, we recently launched a new Parks Partner program that gives our residents the chance to have a larger stake in our Parks and Recreation activities. Residents who choose to be a Parks Partner will be able to help shape the future of O’Fallon’s parks and be eligible for special discounts and perks. To sign up as a Parks Partner, register for free at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec. As I close, I would like to ask all O’Fallon voters to consider supporting Proposition B on the April 5th ballot. This important ballot issue will ensure that our local car dealers, who provide a large number of jobs for O’Fallon residents, are not put at a competitive disadvantage when residents go shopping for cars. Please understand, this is not a new tax! This ballot issue simply allows the City to continue to collect sales tax on all vehicles regardless of where they are purchased. The only reason it is on the ballot is to close a court-created loophole that could seriously impact our local businesses. If you have questions about this issue, please don’t hesitate to contact me or your Councilmembers. We will be happy to answer them. Thank you for all you do to keep this City a great place to live! We wish you the best and hope to see you shopping and dining in O’Fallon as the spring weather arrives.

Bill Hennessy, Mayor

O’Fallon #7 on national “2016 Best Cities for Young Families” list For its child-friendliness, low crime, high-quality education and affordable housing, O’Fallon ranked 7th on the “2016 Best Cities for Young Families” list and scored an A+ rating as one of the nation’s top communities. The online site ApartmentList.com compiled the report using F.B.I., Department of Education and Census statistics. With more than 84,000 residents, O’Fallon is the only Missouri community in the top 50.

Catch River City Rascals baseball on page 11.

Elected Officials

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

Ward 1 Councilmembers Dave Hinman 636-379-5581 dhinman@ofallon.mo.us

Rick Lucas 636-379-5582 rlucas@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 2 Councilmembers Rose Mack 636-379-5591 rmack@ofallon.mo.us

Jim Pepper 636-379-5583 jpepper@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 3 Councilmembers Richard “Rick” Battelle 636-379-5586 rbattelle@ofallon.mo.us

John Haman, Jr. 636-379-5585 jhaman@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 4 Councilmembers Bob Howell 636-379-5587 bhowell@ofallon.mo.us

Jeff Schwentker 636-379-5580 jschwentker@ofallon.mo.us

Ward 5 Councilmembers Debbie Cook 636-379-5588 dcook@ofallon.mo.us

Mike Pheney

Helpful Numbers

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

Citizens First Center 636-379-5553

City Hall 636-240-2000

Police (Non-emergency) 636-240-3200

O’Fallon voters to consider continuation of local sales tax on out-of-state vehicle sales On the April ballot, O’Fallon residents will join with other voters throughout much of St. Charles County to consider the continuation of the local sales tax on vehicles purchased from out-ofstate dealers. The measure, which will appear as Proposition B, will continue the practice of taxing all vehicle sales equally, regardless of the purchase location. Prior to 2012, everyone who purchased a vehicle paid city sales tax on vehicles bought in another state when they licensed the vehicle. Those tax revenues go to the city where the purchaser resides and help pay for services such as police protection, street repairs and park improvements. A decision by the Missouri Supreme Court, however, created a loophole that exempted vehicles purchased out-of-state from the local sales tax. This decision impacted both the City of O’Fallon and local businesses. Out-of-state dealers gained a competitive advantage over local businesses because they were not forced to charge the sales tax and the City faced the potential of a significant loss of revenue. In fact, according to the Missouri Department of Revenue, the City of O’Fallon could lose more than $525,000 in revenue if the loophole is not closed. In 2013, the Missouri Legislature provided temporary relief from this decision, allowing cities to continue to collect the local sales tax on these vehicle purchases, but is also requiring cities to seek voter approval by November 2016 to continue the tax. In order to meet this requirement, the O’Fallon City Council has placed the matter on the April 5th ballot. This document was prepared and paid for by the City of O’Fallon solely to educate and inform residents about a question that will be presented at the polls. It is NOT intended to advocate, support or oppose the passage or defeat of the measure. Each voter should vote for or against the question based on his or her own judgment.

If you’re a disabled resident or senior (65+), you can file for 2015 utility tax rebates starting April 1 If you are age 65 or older or a resident with disabilities and you’d like to recoup some of your City phone and utilities taxes, be sure to save copies of your 2015 gas, electric and phone bills, including your cell phone. With those in hand, you may be able to file for O’Fallon’s utility tax rebates. To qualify you must be (1) an O’Fallon resident who is 65 or older, or (2) you must be determined totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. And, (3) you must have an annual adjusted gross income of no more than $39,400 for a single head-of-household or $45,000 for a married (two-person) household. Social Security income is not counted. If you qualify for the City’s tax rebates on utility bills, you can file for the rebates at City Hall on weekdays beginning Friday, April 1, through Tuesday, May 31. City staff will assist you with filing from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. You must file for your rebate in person and be sure to bring:

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A photo ID with your O’Fallon address (driver’s license, state ID or passport)

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A copy of your 2015 federal income tax return

Copies of 2015 bills for gas, electricity, home phone and cell phone service (bills must show an O’Fallon address) Proof of Social Security disability, if you are disabled

You can help speed the filing process by picking up a rebate form at City Hall or online at www.ofallon.mo.us. For more information, contact the Citizens First Center at 636-379-5553 or citizensfirst@ofallon.mo.us.

Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477

O’Fallon Water & Sewer 636-281-2858

Get involved! This spring, get experience helping with City events as a volunteer! Contact volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5417.

Media Center Watch new original programming, “Inside O’Fallon” for helpful “how to” segments What’s going on in O’Fallon? Find out 24/7 by watching O’FallonTV local programming live or on-demand at www. ofallon.mo.us, Charter Channel 991, AT&T U-verse Channel 99 or O’FallonTV’s YouTube channel. O’FallonTV airs every City government meeting and workshop live and replays them in their entirety, including the March 15th Candidate Forum where you can get to know the City Council candidates. You can also watch original shows, commercials, specials and public service announcements created by our awardwinning Communications team. “Energy” showcases great programs in the parks and at the Renaud Spirit Center; “Keep It in the ‘O’” profiles City businesses, so you’ll know where to shop, dine and get the services you need; and each month, “O’Fallon Matters” gives you a look all around the City. Plus, the weekly “O’Fallon Update” is a great way to keep track of current events. This summer, O’FallonTV will launch its newest program, “Inside O’Fallon.” The program will help residents with important tips such as how to apply for a permit for home repairs, how to access the City’s sewer lateral insurance program, pay bills online and use all of the features of www. ofallon.mo.us. Tune in to O’FallonTV, and discover the services, programs and people that make O’Fallon a great place to live.

Help a local charity when paying your utility bills The City Council has approved an innovative new program to assist local charities. Residents can choose to donate $1, $3 or $5 each billing cycle when paying City water/sewer or trash collection bills. Each year, the Council will designate which charity will receive the funds. For 2016, the designated charity is Meals on Wheels, which delivers hot, nutritious meals to homebound seniors who can’t easily make a meal. The charity depends on voluntary donations. To register for the donation program, fill out this form and include it with your mailed payment. The amount will automatically be added to the bi-monthly bill. For more information about O’Fallon’s new program, call 636-379-5566 or email kpieper@ofallon.mo.us.

Yes, I’d like to donate

$5 monthly.

Printed Name:

Public Assistance O’Fallon’s siding program seeks applicants The City’s new Siding Installation/Repair Program is ready to help low-income resident homeowners with grants of up to $10,000 for siding installation and repair. The grants, which are funded by the City’s Community Development Block Grant program, will be disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis to applicants who qualify. Applicants must meet the same requirements as the Home Improvement Loan Program (HILP), including household income limits, owning and occupying the house to be improved for at least one year and being current on mortgage payments and real estate taxes. You can download an application and find more information about the program at www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

O’Fallon’s transportation program for residents with disabilities O’Fallon residents who are legally-disabled may be eligible for up to two free round-trip rides a month to medical appointments, banks, and grocery and personal care shopping through the City’s Transportation Program for residents with disabilities. To schedule a ride, contact the service provider, ZipCare Transportation, at least 48 hours in advance by calling 314292-7302, ext. 380. Or, submit your ride request online at www. zipcaretransportation.com. To qualify for the service, you must show legal proof of Social Security disability, such as a copy of the award letter and/or Medicare part A/B card. You also will need photo ID with your O’Fallon address and a copy of a current utility bill. Questions? Call 636-379-5411 or email ajaegers@ofallon.mo.us.

Project HOME Golf Tournament supports O’Fallon residents in need Friday, May 13 Doors open at 10 a.m.; shotgun start at 11:30 a.m. The Falls Golf Club, 1170 Turtle Creek Drive, O’Fallon 63366 Register early to secure your team’s place in this popular benefit tournament and enjoy a day on the golf links supporting a good cause. Participants receive an 18-hole round of golf, snacks and beverages along the course, and lunch and dinner. Registration is $100 per golfer, with the proceeds going to assist eligible, low-income homeowners in resolving code violations and much-needed home repairs. To register for the tournament, be a sponsor or to donate to Project HOME, please call 636-379-5411 or email ajaegers@ ofallon.mo.us.

Service Address: Signature:

Date:

www.ofallon.mo.us Spring 2016

Upcoming Events www.ofallon.mo.us/events Free O’Fallon Jammin’ concerts will rock Civic Park Tuesdays, June 7 – August 23 (no concert July 5) 6:30–9 p.m., Civic Park Bandstand, Civic Park Have a great time on Tuesday evenings this summer as the free O’Fallon Jammin’ concert series brings the sounds of rock, pop, country, R&B, soul and Motown to Civic Park. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and purchase gourmet food and beverages from food trucks and concessionaires. The ADAcompliant area around the bandstand has restrooms, paved paths and a nearby playground. For concert and food truck updates, check www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.

2016 O’Fallon Jammin’ concert calendar

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June 7 – B utch Wax and The Hollywoods with Theo Peoples, oldies, Motown, R&B, rock

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June 14 – Petty Cash Junction, Tom Petty and Johnny Cash cover band

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June 21 – Big Rain, current hits

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July 19 – Gentleman Bandits, blues, rock and country soul

June 28 – O’Fallon Community Concert and Jazz bands July 5 – NO CONCERT July 12 – Magazine, Heart tribute band featuring Kelly Wild of Trixie Delight July 26 – Groovethang, 70s and 80s hits August 2 – O’Fallon Community Concert & Jazz bands August 9 – Memphis Ride, tropical rock, country and more August 16 – Retro Boogie, Motown, disco, pop and rock August 23 – My Friend Mike, Top 40 hits

For weather updates, call 636-379-5614. All pets must be leashed and no glass containers are allowed in the park. Please note: concert schedule is subject to change without notice.

O’Fallon’s 2016 Heritage & Freedom Fest brings patriotic fun, fireworks and headline entertainers to the City Saturday, July 2, 2–10 p.m., family night Sunday, July 3, 2–11 p.m., country music Monday, July 4, Noon – 10 p.m., rock music Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, 900 T.R. Hughes Boulevard, O’Fallon 63366 With free concerts by nationally-known artists followed by two nights of exceptional fireworks displays, free sideshows, kids’ activities, thrilling carnival rides and the biggest Fourth of July parade in the county, O’Fallon’s Independence Day weekend celebration has become the most popular in the area. The festival kicks off with family night on Saturday from 2–10 p.m., featuring carnival rides and a colorful midway with food and games for all ages. The fun continues Sunday and Monday with amazing concerts, carnival rides and games, and fantastic fireworks displays. Stay tuned to www. heritageandfreedomfest.com for the announcement of this year’s great musical acts later this spring. Vendors: Space is filling up for this year’s festival. Visit www.heritageandfreedomfest.com today to apply.

O’Fallon’s 2016 Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade is looking for entries Monday, July 4 9:30 a.m., Main Street in downtown O’Fallon Get your red-white-and-blue on by building a patriotic parade entry for the Fourth of July! Open to clubs, churches, businesses, scout troops, civic organizations, and families, hurry and submit an application so you can get started on planning an attention-grabbing entry or float. Parade applications, FAQs and pointers to help you create an exciting parade entry are available at www. heritageandfreedomfest.com/parade. Entry forms also can be picked up at the Renaud Spirit Center, City Hall or the Parks and Recreation Administration Office. Applications must be submitted or postmarked no later than noon on Friday, May 20. For additional parade information, please contact mseymour@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5502. Would you like to assist with the festival or parade as a City volunteer? Contact O’Fallon’s Volunteer Services Department at 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us.

Food Truck Frenzy and Rascals’ Fan Fest Friday, April 29 5–8 p.m., T.R. Hughes Ballpark Help O’Fallon’s own River City Rascals get ready for a great season at this spirit-boosting rally with free activities for all ages, food trucks and live music by the Uncovered Band. A free showing of the movie Inside Out will take place on the field inside the ballpark after the event. For details about the Rascals and a game schedule, turn to page 11 of this newsletter.

Founders’ Day and Garden Expo Saturday, May 7 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park Celebrate O’Fallon’s history and its future as two of O’Fallon’s most popular events come together in one fantastic spring celebration! This year O’Fallon’s Founders’ Day and Garden Expo will both be held as one great spring festival on May 7 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. in scenic Fort Zumwalt Park. There will be something for everyone with live demonstrations of old-time skills, old-fashioned games, presentations with landscape and gardening experts, music, fun kids’ activities, vendors selling folk arts and crafts, the Lewis & Clark Fife & Drum Corps, storyteller Steve McPhail as “Johnny Appleseed,” garden décor, live plants and more. Concessions will be for sale. Other activities include the St. Charles Model Railroad Club open house, and the Arbor Day Ceremony with Mayor Hennessy. In addition, tour the historic Heald Home and Zumwalt’s Fort for $5.

O’FallonTheatreWorks Auditions for The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree and The Crisis of Captain Cross Friday, April 1, at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 2, at 10 a.m.; call-backs at 4 p.m. Lady Pirates of Captain Bree – Auditioners who can sing and dance are needed to fill the large cast and chorus of this swashbuckling musical comedy. Up to 30 cast members between the ages of 12 and 18 are needed for the show. Young men with singing ability are especially needed. All auditioners must prepare 16 to 32 measures of a theater song for the audition. The Crisis of Captain Cross – The junior program for ages 7–11 will present this original melodrama.

The Crisis of Captain Cross Friday, June 10, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 11, 2 and 7 p.m.

The Lady Pirates of Captain Bree Thursday and Friday, June 16–17, 7 p.m. Saturday, June 18, 2 and 7 p.m.

Tour Historic Sites This spring and summer, O'Fallon's historical treasures will be open the 2nd and 4th Sundays from May – September (Closed Mother's Day, May 8). Explore the area’s history and chat with the people who know it best. For photos and information about O’Fallon’s history, visit www.ofallonmohistory.org.

• Historic Heald Home and Zumwalt’s Fort 12–3 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park Admission is $5 per person to see both attractions; children 10 and under are free. For private and/or group tours of 10 or more, please provide a minimum of two-weeks’ notice. For more information, please call 636-379-5614.

• O’Fallon Historical Society’s Log Cabin Museum 12–3 p.m., Civic Park In addition to the 2nd and 4th Sundays, tours are also available by appointment and during special events in Civic Park. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

Patriotic ceremonies at Veterans Memorial Walk With the great seals of all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces on burnished steel and white marble, a reflecting pool, an eternal flame and a unique platoon of bronze boots on the march, O’Fallon’s Veterans Memorial Walk is a distinctive site for honoring our soldiers, veterans and those who have given their lives in the service of our country. The Walk is located just south of I-70 at Belleau Creek Road and Veterans Memorial Parkway. All are welcome any time or during one of our upcoming ceremonies:

Armed Forces Day Ceremony Saturday, May 21 11 a.m.

Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 30 11 a.m.

RSC 5K Challenge Run and Movie in the Park Friday, May 6 Run at 7 p.m. (Minions at 8 p.m.), Renaud Spirit Center Sign up for this obstacle course race with your family, and stay for the free party and movie on the lawn afterwards. Whether you compete in the race or cheer the runners from the sidelines, everyone is invited to stay after for a free outdoor movie for the whole family, Minions. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating and purchase tasty food and beverages from concessionaires. See page 8 of the Parks & Rec Guide for 5K Challenge Run registration information.

www.ofallon.mo.us Spring 2016

O’Fallon’s Public Works Fair Wednesday, May 18 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., T.R. Hughes Ballpark west parking lot O'Fallon's Public Works Fair allows children to get up close and even sit in the driver’s seat of some of the working equipment the City uses to provide City services, like snow plows, a paint striper, a street sweeper, a recycling truck and many others. Admission and activities are free, including:

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Safety awareness games and activities for kids Emergency preparedness and other information for adults Free rides on the City train for all ages Giveaways A hotdog, chips and water

Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center opens for the summer on Memorial Day weekend Saturday – Monday, starting May 28 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Saturday; noon – 7 p.m. Sunday; noon – 6 p.m. Monday Swim, dive, work on your tan while the kids slide the water slides, float the lazy river and splash to their heart’s content on the water playground. After Memorial Day, Alligator’s Creek will be open daily through August 14. For more information about features, hours, season passes, admission, special promotions and birthday parties, see page 29 of the Parks & Rec Guide.

Food Truck Frenzy in Sports Park Saturday, June 3 5–8 p.m., Sports Park Purchase gourmet fare from food trucks and listen to modern rock and current hits by the Comin’ Up Empty band. For a complete listing of food trucks set to appear, visit www.ofallon. mo.us/food-truck-frenzy.

Family Fishing Day

Spring Volunteering Enjoy the company of other volunteers and enjoy the outdoors with these great spring activities. To volunteer go to www. ofallon.mo.us/volunteer or call 636-379-5417.

Alternative Spring Break Weekdays, March 21 – April 1 Students, faculty and families are invited to volunteer over spring break and help beautify our City parks. Activities include mulching trees, planting decorative grasses and clearing trails.

Mission: Clean Stream Saturday, April 2 9 a.m. – noon Spend the morning helping to collect litter from local creeks and streams, helping to keep our waterways clean.

National Volunteer Appreciation Week Sunday – Saturday, April 10–16 We’ll be celebrating and thanking our City volunteers all week long to recognize the impact they are making in O’Fallon!

Global Youth Service Days Weekdays, April 11–21 Enjoy the outdoors! Volunteers are needed to prep flower baskets, spread mulch around trees and flower beds, and clean a nearby creek.

O’Fallon Earth Day Saturday, April 23 9–11 a.m. Join in beautifying O’Fallon. Get your family, friends, scout troop, club or church involved in cleaning up monuments and green spaces, or planting flowers and mulching trees and landscaped beds in City parks.

Park Partner Day in Civic Park

Sunday, June 5 8 a.m. – noon, Fort Zumwalt Park

Saturday, April 30 9–11 a.m.

Bring your bait and fishing tackle to Lake Whetsel for a morning of catch-and-release fishing, activities and games. Just let us know you are coming. Turn to page 8 in the Parks & Rec Guide for registration or call 636-474-2732.

With Alligator's Creek and popular events like O’Fallon Jammin’ and Fall Fest, Civic Park is one of O’Fallon’s most treasured parks. Spend some time with our Parks and Landscape crews as we get the park ready to welcome Spring and Summer crowds.

National Join Hands Day Saturday, May 7 9–11 a.m.

O’Fallon Update City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Make O’Fallon shine by helping with park projects and Clean Stream activities.

Public Works Infrastructure and Improvements

www.ofallon.mo.us/public-works

New utility shutoff notification system calls customers with a reminder

What every O’Fallon homeowner needs to know about the City’s Sewer Lateral Insurance Program

The Utility Billing department has added a new, automated phone alert system to help avoid water shutoffs due to non-payment. The system will automatically call delinquent customers to remind them of the impending shutoff if their bill is not paid immediately. The Department also will continue to send shutoff notices through the mail, and the phone notification system will serve as a backup to alert customers of the situation. Please make sure that the City’s billing department has your correct phone number by calling 636379-5566 or by sending an email to kpieper@ofallon.mo.us.

One of your home’s most important features is an underground pipe called a sewer lateral that connects the plumbing in your home to the sewer system. Your home’s sewer lateral is considered your private property. Sometimes laterals fail to function properly, and it is the homeowner’s responsibility to resolve the problem. These repairs can be very expensive, but O’Fallon homeowners may be eligible for assistance from the City’s Sewer Lateral Insurance Program. If you think you have a problem with your sewer lateral, which can be indicated by sewage backing up into your home, you should contact the City’s water and sewer staff to have a video inspection of your lateral sewer line. You will need to submit an application and a $300 application fee. If the sewer lateral meets the criteria for repair, the application fee will be refunded to the homeowner after the repair is made. If the sewer lateral does not meet the criteria for repair, the application fee will be applied to the camera costs and the balance will be refunded to the homeowner. For more information about the Sewer Lateral Insurance Program, please visit www.ofallon.mo.us/sewer-lateralinsurance-program. Or, call 636-379-5596 or 636-379-7601. Please be aware that the Sewer Lateral Insurance Program will not cover repairs to a swimming pool, sprinkler system or landscaping. If a contractor damages your sewer lateral or anything else on your property, it should be their responsibility to repair it or compensate for it.

Spring construction starting throughout the City As you drive in and around O’Fallon this spring, you are likely to see street and road improvements under construction that will make it easier and safer to travel to your destination when the work is done. Here is the status of some projects this spring:

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The repaving of Woodlawn Avenue and Civic Park Drive was finished in December. Norfolk Southern Railroad plans to paint the railroad trestle over Woodlawn Avenue.

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Norfolk Southern also will be making improvements to the Elaine Drive railroad crossing.

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Work continues at the intersection of Sommers Road and Highway N, including the installation of new turn lanes and sidewalks with pedestrian facilities. Weather permitting, the work should be completed later this spring.

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Pavement replacement and sidewalk repair along Knaust Road and Woodlawn Avenue. Homefield Boulevard and Presidents Landing Drive projects have been completed.

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Mexico Road will be resurfaced from Barrington Drive to Belleau Creek Road.

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Phase 2 of the Lake St. Louis Boulevard Extension to extend Lake St. Louis Boulevard from Haycastle Drive to Paul Renaud Boulevard is on schedule to begin this year. The project includes a traffic signal at the intersection of Lake St. Louis Boulevard and Highway N and a roundabout at the intersection of Lake St. Louis and Paul Renaud boulevards.

Avoid damaging automatic water meters with your lawn mower Please avoid hitting water meters with a lawnmower, weed whacker or other device. Water meters are typically installed in the lawn near the curb or in sidewalks and include a radio transmitter. These transmitters are durable and weatherproof, but they can be damaged by strikes from lawnmowers or other machinery. Keep your meter safe by trimming carefully around your meter and never remove or tamper with the water meter lid. If you have questions or concerns about the water meter system, please call the City’s Water Division at 636-281-2858.

The City of O'Fallon is on Twitter!

@cityofofallon www.ofallon.mo.us Spring 2016

Police Bulletins O’Fallon Police Dept. Programs and Tips Special Needs Locator Program Do you have a family member with dementia or other cognitive disorder? Do you fear your loved one could get lost, disoriented or be unable to communicate effectively? If so, you can notify the O’Fallon Police Department by registering your family member. Registration is free, voluntary and confidential and includes background information and a current photograph. To register your loved one or find out more about the program, contact Lt. Pat Hossenlopp at 636240-3200, ext. 5662.

O’Fallon Safety Town teaches young children how to “play safe” Registration opens at 8 a.m. on Friday, April 1 Protect young children by enrolling them in a first-class safety program, O’Fallon Safety Town. Our nationally-accredited annual program teaches children ages 4½ through 6½ how to play safe and stay safe. The course is presented in a kid-sized, simulated town layout at Progress South Elementary School, and taught by law enforcement and firefighting professionals, teachers and volunteers. A field trip is included in the twoweek course. Space is limited, so early enrollment is encouraged. The cost for the two-week session is $60 per child; each additional child from the same family is $40. Fees must be paid in full when children are enrolled. Register in person at the Renaud Spirit Center or register online at www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/ ofallon-safety-town. Only parents or legal guardians may enroll children.

2016 O’Fallon Safety Town schedule Choose either morning (9–11:30 a.m.) or afternoon (12:30–2:45 p.m.) classes.

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www.ofallon.mo.us/PD

Drug take-back program makes change in drop off rules All pills must be removed from bottles and placed in a plastic bag before being placed in the drop box The O'Fallon Police Department has been forced to make a change in how they accept unwanted medications through the popular drug take-back program. Because of the pollution caused by plastic bottles when the pills are incinerated, we can no longer accept plastic pill containers. Please transport your medications to the Police Department in the prescribed containers to remain in compliance with state law. Once here, please transfer the medications into the disposable plastic bags provided and drop them in the security box. The take-back box is located in the lobby of the O'Fallon Police Department located at 100 North Main Street and is accessible Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. – 5 p.m. If you have questions about the program or this change, please contact Sgt. Robert Kendall at rkendall@ofallon.mo.us.

The drug take-back box is located in the lobby of the O’Fallon Police Department, 100 North Main Street, O’Fallon 63366.

Session I: June 6–17, 47837 (a.m.) or 47840 (p.m.) Session II: June 20 – July 1, 47838 (a.m.) or 47841 (p.m.) Session III: July 11–22, 47839 (a.m.) or 47842 (p.m.)

Before registering for programs online, first obtain a PIN/ Barcode. To register, select the class and login using your PIN/ Barcode and pay by credit card.

The O’Fallon Police Department utilizes social media to share news and seek tips. Follow us!

Facebook: Search for “O'Fallon Missouri Police Department” Twitter: @OFallonPolice

O’Fallon Update City of O’Fallon Newsletter

YouTube: youtube.com/OFallonTV

Lost a pet? If you’ve lost a pet or found a stray, the O’Fallon Police Department’s Animal Control Division has options that can help.

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Leave a voice message describing the problem (lost pet, animal complaint, animal welfare issue, etc.) by calling 636-240-3200; press 1 for Animal Control/Dispatch.

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If you’re missing a pet, check www.facebook.com/ ofallonanimalcontrol for animals that have been picked up without identification. Animals that can’t be identified by tags or a microchip will be posted on the Animal Control Facebook “Wall” with a photo, brief description and the location where the animal was found.

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To reclaim your impounded animal, please be sure to follow the procedures listed on www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/ animal-control.

Domestic animals are housed at the St. Charles County Pet Adoption Center, 4850 Mid Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters 63376. Contact the Adoption Center at 636-949-PETS (7387) or visit the website at www.sccmo.org/824/Pet-Adoption-Center.

Lock your cars, homes and garages to keep your family and valuables safe The O’Fallon Police Department is asking everyone to always keep your house, garage and vehicle doors locked and keep valuables out of sight.

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Never leave vehicle doors unlocked even for a short period of time.

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Never leave your phone, purse, electronics, keys or any valuables in plain sight. Bring them with you or put them in the trunk.

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Roll up your windows and close your sun roof even if the car is parked at home. Bring your garage door opener inside.

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Before setting your locks, always tap your pockets or check your purse to make sure your keys haven’t been left behind.

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Never store valuables or keys in the glove compartment or console—those are the first places thieves look.

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Never leave unsecured tools, bicycles or anything of value in your truck bed.

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Always close and lock your garage door when you are not in the garage. An open garage offers an easy entry point to your home.

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Always lock your house. An unlocked door is an invitation to burglars!

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Engrave your name on high-value items to make them harder to pawn and to help prove your ownership. Also copy the serial numbers of your electronics.

If your wallet or purse is stolen, your identity has likely been stolen as well. To protect yourself and report the problem, visit O’Fallon PD’s identity theft webpage, www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/ responding-to-identity-theft.

Veterans Corner O’Fallon’s Veterans Affairs Office Monday through Friday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., except when City Hall is closed for holidays Veterans, if you are looking for information on your benefits and/or eligibility, look no further than the Veterans Affairs Office at O’Fallon City Hall, third floor. Our volunteer staff can provide you with a wide range of information, assistance and guidance. We offer a broad array of topical literature for your review both in our office and in the veterans’ literature kiosk on the first floor. An excellent example of this is the annual 2015-2016 Missouri Benefits & Resource Guide. This guide and others can help you find out about local, state and federal benefit programs. Give us a call 636-379-5577, or email us at veteransaffairsoffice@ofallon.mo.us. We look forward to helping you.

Free coffee and doughnuts for veterans at “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday Veterans from all branches of service are invited to enjoy camaraderie and free coffee and doughnuts at “Coffee Talk” every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at Grace Baptist Church, 3601 Ehlmann Road in St. Charles. In addition, veterans can pick up applications for VA healthcare, applications for the Honor Flight and get reports from local American Legion and VFW Halls.

Armed Forces Day and Memorial Day are two of the ceremonies held at O'Fallon's Veterans Memorial Walk. See page 5 for details.

Roscoe’s Den Trash, Recycling and Yard Waste Announcements No change in City trash and recycling services for Memorial Day week

O’Fallon’s bi-monthly Electronics & Appliance Recycling Events continue

For residents enrolled in the City’s trash and recycling program, there's no change in service for Memorial Day week, Monday, May 30. Please put your trash, recycling and yard waste at the curb on your regularly-scheduled day. For more information, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/holiday-schedule or call 636-272-0477.

If you’ve got outdated or broken electronics and appliances cluttering up your home, bring them to O’Fallon’s Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event on Saturday, April 9, from 8 a.m. to noon. The drop-off will be held in the T.R. Hughes Ballpark west parking lot, located at the corner of Tom Ginnever Avenue and T.R. Hughes Boulevard. Items can be dropped off free of charge except for certain televisions:

Spring Cleanup Checklist O’Fallon’s Environmental Services Department provides services that can help you keep your home and yard free of clutter.

O’Fallon’s yard waste collection saves time and work Weekly service resumes the week of March 14 If you’re not yet enrolled in yard waste collection, you can make yard cleanups easier by signing up at any time, and dispose of everything from sticks and branches (cut down to no longer than 4-feet lengths) to leaves and grass clippings at your curb. The cost is $5.62 per month, or $11.25 per bimonthly trash bill. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/yard-waste for details. Please remember, it’s illegal to put yard waste in your trash or dump it in a City storm sewer.

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$20 per 26-inch or less cathode ray tube (CRT) TV $40 per 27-inch or larger CRT TV $50 per wooden console or true big screen/projection TV No charge for LED/LCD TVs

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.

Free bi-monthly bulk waste drop-off If you’re an O’Fallon trash customer, you can drop off certain items that are too large to fit in your trash container, such as carpeting or furniture, at the City’s waste transfer station. The service is free. This spring, the bi-monthly bulk-waste drop-offs are scheduled for 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 16 and June 11. The transfer station is located at 1572 Progress West Lane, O’Fallon 63366. For a list of acceptable items visit www.ofallon.mo.us/ bulk-waste. For questions, contact staff at 636-272-0477 or ofallonrecycles@ofallon.mo.us.

Did you know that plastic bags are now one of the most common forms of litter or debris? That’s one of the many reasons for recycling all plastic bags. It’s easy – drop your used plastic bags off in the special bins located at most grocery stores.

Communications Director • Tom Drabelle • tdrabelle@ofallon.mo.us Staff Writer • Peggy Whetzel • pwhetzel@ofallon.mo.us Web and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek • bwieczorek@ofallon.mo.us

Special Feature

River City Rascals’ home games offer a great ballpark experience

2016 HOME SCHEDULE May 6 May 20 May 21 May 22 May 25 May 26 May 27 May 28 May 29 June 7 June 8 June 9 June 10

11:05 AM Gateway Grizzlies 6:35 PM Gateway Grizzlies 6:35 PM Gateway Grizzlies 4:05 PM Gateway Grizzlies 5:05 PM DH Evansville Otters 6:35 PM Evansville Otters 6:35 PM Normal CornBelters 6:35 PM Normal CornBelters 4:05 PM Normal CornBelters 6:35 PM Florence Freedom 6:35 PM Florence Freedom 6:35 PM Florence Freedom 6:35 PM Southern Illinois Miners

June 11 June 12 June 22 June 23 June 24 June 25 June 26 June 28 June 29 June 30 July 15 July 16 July 17

For a fun night out with your family or friends, come on out to T.R. Hughes Ballpark this season and catch O’Fallon’s own River City Rascals. The Rascals continue to be one of the best teams in the Frontier League, having made the Frontier League playoffs in five of the last seven years. Don’t miss all of the action as they chase the championship again this year. T.R. Hughes Ballpark includes a great view of the game wherever you are seated and suites available for parties. Plus, make the night extra special by purchasing tickets for the Dog Pound Patio with all-you-can-eat food and drink buffets. And, the kids will love the great playground and a chance to run the bases after every game. There’s a promotion nearly every night of the season and this year’s events include appearances by former Cardinals Tony La Russa and Chris Carpenter, an Escalating Jackpot Giveaway, Super Hero Night, Princess Night (with a movie after the game), Bark in the Park, the Mega Candy Drop, Super Splash Days and the Ladies Night Diamond Dig. For more details, season tickets, group tickets or individual tickets, call 636240-BATS (2278) or visit www.rivercityrascals.com.

6:35 PM 1:05 PM DH 6:35 PM 11:05 AM 6:35 PM 6:35 PM 4:05 PM 6:35 PM 6:35 PM 6:35 PM 6:35 PM 6:35 PM 4:05 PM

Southern Illinois Miners Southern Illinois Miners Southern Illinois Miners Southern Illinois Miners Gateway Grizzlies Gateway Grizzlies Gateway Grizzlies Joliet Slammers Joliet Slammers Joliet Slammers Schaumburg Boomers Schaumburg Boomers Schaumburg Boomers

July 22 July 23 July 24 July 26 July 27 July 28 August 5 August 6 August 7 August 10 August 11 August 16 August 17 August 18 August 19 August 20 August 21 August 26 August 27 August 28

6:35 PM Traverse City Beach Bums 6:35 PM Traverse City Beach Bums 4:05 PM Traverse City Beach Bums 6:35 PM Lake Erie Crushers 11:05 AM Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 PM Lake Erie Crushers 6:35 PM Washington Wildthings 6:35 PM Washington Wildthings 4:05 PM Washington Wildthings 5:05 PM DH Florence Freedom 6:35 PM Florence Freedom 6:35 PM Evansville Otters 6:35 PM Evansville Otters 6:35 PM Evansville Otters 6:35 PM Windy City ThunderBolts 6:35 PM Windy City ThunderBolts 4:05 PM Windy City ThunderBolts 6:35 PM Normal CornBelters 6:35 PM Normal CornBelters 4:05 PM Normal CornBelters

www.ofallon.mo.us Spring 2016

Calendar March

All events, public meetings and Municipal Court proceedings are held at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), 100 North Main Street, unless otherwise noted. Meeting times and dates are subject to change; for the most current information, check www.ofallon.mo.us/events.

May

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

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

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

11-12 O’FallonTheatreWorks’ comedy Noises Off, 8 p.m. O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

RSC 5K Challenge Run and Movie in the Park, 7 p.m.

National Join Hands Day, 9–11 a.m.

13 O’FallonTheatreWorks’ Noises Off, 2 p.m.

Founders’ Day and Garden Expo, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

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

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

Candidate Forum, 7 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

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

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

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

O’Fallon Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3 p.m.

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

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

Public Works Fair, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Armed Forces Day Ceremony, 11 a.m.

Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3 p.m.

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

Alligator's Creek Aquatic Center opens for the season

Memorial Day Ceremony, 11 a.m.

City Hall CLOSED for Memorial Day

April 1

Safety Town registration opens, 8 a.m.

Utility Tax rebate filing begins, 8:30 a.m.

Mission: Clean Stream, 9 a.m. – Noon

Municipal election, 6 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event, 8 a.m. – Noon T.R. Hughes Ballpark west parking lot

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Food Truck Frenzy, 5–8 p.m., O’Fallon Sports Park

Parks and Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

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

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Bulk Waste Drop-off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

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

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

Bulk Waste Drop-off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

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

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30 – 9 p.m.

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

Parks and Recreation Board, 7 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

23 O’Fallon Earth Day, 9–11 a.m.

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 2:30 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m.

Public Works Commission, 7 p.m.

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

Municipal Court, 6 p.m.

Rascals’ Fan Fest & Food Truck Frenzy, 5–8 p.m.

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

30 Parks Partner Day in Civic Park, 9–11 a.m.

June

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/OFallonTV.