O'Fallon Update newsletter – Summer 2019 by City of O'Fallon

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

Summer 2019 • www.ofallon.mo.us

Heritage & Freedom Fest will rock the summer Tim Clothier named Chief of O’Fallon Police Department Tim Clothier joined the O’Fallon Police Department as Chief on May 28, 2019, after his appointment was ratified by the City Council in March. Chief Clothier joins O’Fallon from Ozark, Missouri, where he served as Police Chief since 2015. Prior to joining the ranks of the Ozark Police Department, Chief Clothier was a police officer holding the rank of Major with the Owensboro, Kentucky, Police Department. Chief Clothier was chosen following a nationwide search, which resulted in three finalists. The finalists were brought to O’Fallon for a day-long series of interviews with the Mayor, City Council, City Administrator, O’Fallon police officers and department leaders and a panel of O’Fallon citizens.

In this issue

t’s summertime in O’Fallon, and the City is buzzing with fun and laughter. Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center is filled with kids and families looking to soak up some sunshine; the River City Rascals are off to a great start at CarShield Field; the new playground at O’Day Park offers kids an amazing new experience; and our City’s many great stores and restaurants are filled with residents enjoying the great weather and spending money here in O’Fallon. Here at City Hall, we’re working hard to put the final touches on all of our great summer events. We have the weekly Jammin’ concerts at Civic Park, our first concert and theater performances at O’Day Park and our popular Food Truck Frenzies. Of course, our biggest and most popular event is Heritage & Freedom Fest. This year’s event looks to be one of our biggest ever with rockers Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo on July 4th and rising country star Walker Hayes on July 3rd. This year’s event features an all new carnival with rides for all ages and great games and activities. And, for the first time, we will be offering unlimited ride wristbands for each day, so you can pay one low price and ride as much as you want. Our Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade will bring thousands to Main Street and Tom Ginnever Avenue on the morning of July 4th and St. Charles County’s best fireworks display will cap off both concert nights. If you’re looking for a little more laid back experience, come out to Family Night on July 2nd and ride the rides and taste the great food and drinks with smaller crowds. Parking and admission are free all three days, so bring the whole family out for a great time. On behalf of the City Council, we wish you a safe and wonderful summer! And, remember as you’re experiencing all O’Fallon has to offer, please “Keep it in the O” and shop and dine here in your hometown. Sincerely,

Bill Hennessy, Mayor

Heritage & Freedom Fest on July 2–4

Renew O’Fallon

O’Fallon wins best-tasting water in Missouri

Upcoming Events

Veterans Report

Roscoe’s Den

The City of O’Fallon was named the winner of the “2019 Water Taste Test” by the Missouri Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA). Each year, the AWWA Spring Conference receives submissions for the best-tasting water in Missouri. This year’s award was presented to Dan Ismay, O’Fallon Water Plant Manager at AWWA’s annual conference.

10 Police Bulletins 11 Public Assistance 12 Calendar

Free concerts, parade, fireworks and more! See pages 2–4.

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

Rose Mack

636-379-5591 rmack@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

Celebrate your independence at Heritage & Freedom Fest July 2–4 at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex Concerts, fireworks, carnival rides, sideshows and a patriotic parade

’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest is coming up on July 2–4 at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex! Make plans with family and friends to join in the City’s patriotic celebration of our nation’s birthday, featuring free concerts by Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo on July 4th and Walker Hayes on July 3rd. Admission and parking are free, and the fun includes free family-friendly sideshows, a free Kids' Zone, fireworks and an all new carnival and midway. Discounted all-you-can-ride carnival wristbands are available for purchase for all three days. To purchase a wristband or for updates, schedules and more, visit www.heritageandfreedomfest.com.

Family Night • Tuesday, July 2, 4–10 p.m. Bring the family out and experience Heritage & Freedom Fest with smaller crowds and great family-friendly activities at Family Night on July 2nd, featuring food and drink vendors, carnival rides and free sideshows. (No live music or fireworks on July 2.)

Debbie Cook

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

Thank you, 2019 Sponsors!

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

Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477

O’Fallon Water & Sewer 636-281-2858

Bank of Old Monroe Marshall Ford

Curtis, Heinz, Garrett & O’Keefe, P.C. Pantera’s

Rendezvous Café & Wine Bar

Madison's Cafe Sno-Biz

Rock legends Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo and country star Walker Hayes headline July 3rd and 4th The festival kicks into high gear on July 3rd and 4th with national-touring performers, great local bands and an all new carnival and midway.

Tuesday, July 2 • Family Night Festival grounds open 4–10 p.m. Carnival, midway, attractions and vendors open. No fireworks display.

6, 8 p.m.

Street Drum Corps

Wednesday, July 3

Country Night • July 3, 4–11 p.m. Country music’s Walker Hayes, Filmore and Noah Guthrie will perform their chart-topping hits as they take to the Main Stage at the Festival’s popular country night on July 3rd. Rising country star Walker Hayes headlines the evening. His current single “90’s Country” references 22 popular 90s-era country songs and is available for purchase or download everywhere. Missouri-native Filmore and singer/songwriter Noah Guthrie open the evening. Filmore tallies more than 50 million on-demand streams to date and has been featured by Spotify, The New York Times, Apple Music, CMT, Pandora and more. Noah Guthrie began recording covers of popular songs on YouTube at the age of 15. He began touring at 16, starred on the television program Glee and had performed more than 200 shows by the age of 18.

All-American Rock Party • July 4, Noon–10 p.m. On the 4th of July, rock the night away featuring powerhouse rock legends Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo and former American Idol contestant Gabby Barrett. Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo have been making music together for four decades. Pat Benatar’s staggering vocals and take-no-prisoners attitude, along with Neil Giraldo’s trailblazing artistry as a guitarist, producer and songwriter forged the undeniable chemistry and unique sound that created memorable rock hits, including “We Belong,” “Invincible,” “Love Is A Battlefield,” “Promises In The Dark,” and “We Live For Love.” Together they have created two multi-platinum, five platinum and three gold albums, as well as 19 Top 40 hits. They have sold over thirty million records worldwide and have won an unprecedented four consecutive Grammy awards. Their stop in O’Fallon is part of their 40th Anniversary summer tour. Gabby Barrett came into prominence when the 18-yearold vocal powerhouse hit the national stage as a finalist on Season 16 of American Idol. During Idol, Gabby collaborated on performances with superstars Bebe Rexha, Carrie Underwood, Sugarland and Luke Bryan. She toured on the American Idol Live! 2018 tour and has been writing and recording music with award-winning producer Ross Copperman.

Festival grounds open 4–11 p.m. 6, 8 p.m.

Street Drum Corps

4:45 p.m.

Noah Guthrie

6:45 p.m.

Filmore

8:30 p.m.

Walker Hayes

10:15 p.m.

Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular

Thursday, July 4 Parade at 9:30 a.m. Festival grounds open Noon – 10 p.m. 2:30, 5, 7 p.m.

Street Drum Corps

2:30 p.m.

Apex Shrine

4:00 p.m.

Parade awards

4:30 p.m.

Queens Blvd.

6:30 p.m.

Gabby Barrett

8:15 p.m.

Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo

9:30 p.m.

Jena “Dusty” Mielke Fireworks Spectacular

Become a volunteer! Call 636-379-5417 or email volunteer@ofallon.mo.us.

O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade

Get involved as a festival volunteer

Wednesday, July 4 9:30 a.m., Downtown O'Fallon

Join the fun as a festival or parade volunteer. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us. Learn more at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer.

Dress in patriotic red, white and blue and bring your family to downtown O’Fallon to cheer for your favorite entries in the biggest Fourth of July parade in St. Charles County. O’Fallon’s Heritage & Freedom Fest Parade steps off at 9:30 a.m. from the corner of Main Street and Civic Park Drive, heads north on Main Street, turns east on Tom Ginnever Avenue and ends at T.R. Hughes Boulevard near the festival entrance. This year's theme is “Stars & Stripes Forever,” and the prize-winning entries will be announced on the Main Stage at 4 p.m.

New carnival features great new rides and allyou-can-ride wristbands With a brand new carnival, this year's rides will be better than ever. With more than 16 rides, there are great options for kids, teens and adults. To ride, purchase an all-you-canride wristband in advance for $20 through July 1st at www. heritageandfreedomfest.com. Wristbands also can be purchased onsite on each event day for $25 per day. Individual tickets can be purchased for $1.25 per ticket. Each ride will require three to six individual tickets. Test your skills at fun and challenging games on the midway, or sample the delicious food.

Free entertainment by the Street Drum Corps This world-renown, high-energy drum and percussion show has been performing in musical tours, festivals and events since they were formed in 2004 by founding members Bobby Alt, Adam Alt and Frank Zummo. The trio had a vision to create something unique and unseen in the percussion world and Street Drum Corps brings just that to audiences.

Free family-friendly fun in the Kids’ Zone Kids will love this area just for them. Come during any of the Kids’ Zone hours to join the free fun, including jumping on inflatables, the opportunity to color on our Monster Mural or a ride around the track on a giant tricycle. And check out all of the great entertainment that is sure to keep your kids’ attention! Diaper changing and nursing stations are also located in the Kids’ Zone area.

Festival District declared Residents who live near the festival grounds can get information about road closings and other restrictions at www. heritageandfreedomfest.com. Or, call the City Clerk’s office at 636-379-5555.

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Parking at the Freedom Fest • Premium Parking, July 3–4 – Available on a first-come, firstserved basis at the CarShield Field west parking lot, prime parking spots near the festival entrance can be purchased for $10. • General parking, July 3–4 – Free parking and shuttles are available off Tom Ginnever Avenue at Fort Zumwalt North and Christian high schools. Air-conditioned buses will drop patrons off near the festival entrance. • ADA-Accessible parking, July 2–4 – Free parking for the disabled will be available only at Westhoff Park via the entrance from St. Matthew. Shuttles will be provided from the lot to the festival entrance. A handicapped license plate or tag must be displayed for admission. No general parking will be allowed at this lot. No ADA-accessible parking will be available at other lots.

Temporary road closures for fireworks displays July 3, 4 On Tuesday and Wednesday, approximately 30 minutes before fireworks are scheduled to begin, T.R. Hughes Boulevard and Cool Springs Industrial Drive will close temporarily and remain closed until 30 minutes after each show ends.

35th Annual Firecracker Run Thursday, July 4 CarShield Field, race-day registration opens at 6 a.m. 10K starts at 7 a.m., 5K starts at 7:10 a.m., 1-Mile Fun Run starts at 8 a.m. Support O’Fallon’s Chamber of Commerce & Industries with a great morning run. Get the details and register in advance for the best price at www.ofallonchamber.org/firecracker.

The following items are not allowed on festival grounds:

•

Fireworks: Please remember, it is illegal to purchase, possess or light fireworks in O’Fallon.

• • • •

Pets or animals of any kind (except service animals)

•

Drones: The operation of radio-controlled motorized aircraft is strictly prohibited.

•

Coolers and small backpacks are permitted but all coolers and bags are subject to inspection by police officers, park rangers and Parks personnel.

Guns or weapons of any kind Glass containers of any kind Bikes, skateboards, scooters, skates, rollerblades or any motorized vehicles, including coolers

Renew O’Fallon Your Tax Dollars at Work

Be alert for summer road construction projects As O’Fallon gets into the construction season, our multi-year effort to “renew” the City’s aging infrastructure and bring it up-to-date continues with nearly every area of the City seeing significant work. To help drivers, here’s a list of current and upcoming projects.

I-70 Improvement Project The reconstruction of the I-70 corridor between T.R. Hughes Blvd. and the Highway K/Main St. exit. Both outer roads are now open and construction is focusing on the area around the Highway K/Main St. interchange. This construction will continue through most of 2019. During this time, please be patient as traffic problems on the Main/Highway K corridor may occur near the interchange. This is short-term, however, and the improvements should alleviate many of the issues at this aging interchange.

2019 Concrete, asphalt and crack seal programs The replacement of aging, damaged concrete pavement is ongoing in various locations throughout the City. With millions of dollars worth of concrete and asphalt street improvements slated for this year, be on the lookout for crews in your subdivision. Additionally, watch for crews lining the cracks in streets. This work helps to keep water from getting into the street joints and prolongs the life of the concrete.

Sommers Road and Highway DD Intersection Improvements

Please, do not post signs on public property Please remember that 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.

Backflow prevention devices require an annual inspection If you’re an O’Fallon resident with a sprinkler system installed in your lawn, or a business with a fire suppression system, chances are you received a letter in March from the City of O’Fallon reminding you that the City requires backflow device(s), such as in your sprinkler system, to be tested annually to make sure they work properly. Plumbing businesses with certified backflow inspectors can perform the tests. If you did not get a letter and have a sprinkler system or know that you have a backflow device, please contact Utility Billing at 636-3795488. Backflow prevention devices in good working order are essential safeguards for public water supplies, because they are designed to stop contaminated or polluted water from flowing back into our City’s potable or drinking water supply. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Missouri’s Department of Natural Resources have rules and regulations for the certification of backflow device inspectors and the submission of backflow device inspections. To ensure compliance with these rules and to preserve the integrity of the City’s clean water system, O’Fallon has ordinances in place requiring yearly backflow device inspections. For more information, visit dnr.mo.gov/pubs/pub2158.htm.

This project, which includes the signalization of the intersection at Highway DD and Sommers Road, along with some turn lane improvements, is underway with an expected completion date later this year. Please drive safely in the area as you should expect to encounter traffic delays during construction.

Paul Renaud Boulevard Extension Project This project involves the extension of Paul Renaud Blvd. from Sommers Road west to the existing terminus near Country Trail Drive, including the installation of a traffic signal at Sommers Road. Construction on this project has begun with an expected completion date of November 2019.

www.ofallon.mo.us Summer 2019

Upcoming Events www.ofallon.mo.us/events Free O’Fallon Jammin’ concerts make the most of summer nights in the City

Alligator’s Creek Aquatic Center is open for summer fun

Tuesdays through August 13 (no concert July 2) 6:30–9 p.m., Civic Park Bandstand, Civic Park

Open daily through August 17, then on weekends through Labor Day 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday – Thursday 405 Civic Park Drive (in Civic Park)

Join the party in the park on Tuesday evenings for free O’Fallon Jammin’ concerts by some of the best bands in the region. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for seating and listen to a different band and musical genre each week. Food trucks and concessionaires will provide great food and drinks. Concert and food truck updates are available at www.ofallon.mo.us/jammin.

2019 O’Fallon Jammin’ Concert Series Calendar

Come splash and play! The Alligator’s Creek outdoor swimming complex offers a lazy river, zero-entry pool, slides, a splash pad for all abilities and more! See pages 8–9 of the Parks & Rec Guide or www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec/acac for more information.

• June 11: McLovin, dance and party music

Three Pedros headlines Food Truck Frenzy

• June 18: Brushville, country

Friday, August 2 5:30–8:30 p.m., Sports Park

• June 25: 135th Army Band Missouri Army National Guard, Top 40/pop music • July 2: No Concert – head to Heritage & Freedom Fest • July 9: Rogers and Nienhaus, folk and classic rock • July 16: Breakdown Shakedown, Top 40 hits

Come together for a great free concert and some fantastic food truck fare at O’Fallon’s Food Truck Frenzy. Free admission and parking. See the participating trucks at www.ofallon.mo.us/ food-truck-frenzy.

• July 23: Power Play, rock, R&B and MoTown • July 30: Silver Bullet STL, Bob Segar tribute band • August 6: Joe Dirt & the Dirty Boys Band, rock • August 13: 7 Bridges Road, Eagles tribute band For weather updates, call 636-379-5614 or follow Visit O'Fallon on Facebook or Instagram. All pets must be leashed and no glass containers are allowed in the park. Bands and food trucks are subject to change without notice.

Discover Historic O’Fallon Historic Heald Home and Zumwalt’s Fort tours Open on the 2nd and 4th Sundays through September 23 12–3 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park This summer, come see O'Fallon's historic treasures in Fort Zumwalt Park. Admission is $5 to see both attractions; children 10 and under are admitted free. For private and/or group tours of 10 or more, please call 636-379-5614.

O’Fallon Historical Society’s Log Cabin Museum Open on the 2nd and 4th Sundays through September 23 12–3 p.m., Civic Park Free! See vintage O’Fallon photos, business items, furnishings and curiosities from bygone years. Tours are available by appointment; please contact info@ofallonmohistory.org.

indicates opportunities for volunteers.

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

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

Free Events at O’Day Park Experience O’Fallon’s newest and most unique park at these great free events. More details can be found at www.ofallon.mo.us/events-at-oday-park.

Concert in the Park Thursday, June 20 6:30–9 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater Enjoy one of region’s most acclaimed bands, Butch Wax and the Hollywoods. Bring chairs or a blanket to this free concert, sit back and hear the classic songs from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Fantastic food and drinks will be available for purchase.

Theatre in the Park Thursday, July 18 8-9:30 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater Actor/singer Alan Ox stars in There's an Alien in my Soup, a one-man musical stage play that portrays six military men coming forward with their experiences with alien visitors.

Reptiles & Raptors Sunday, August 25 2-4 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater The World Bird Sanctuary will be presenting Reptiles & Raptors, a close-up look at the unique animals that surround us.

Fall into the Arts Saturday, September 21 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater Experience the beauty of art in the beauty of O’Day Park. View incredible works of art, listen to great music by Miss Jubilee and sample food and drinks from some of the area’s best craft breweries and wineries. Learn more about the event at www. ofallon.mo.us/fall-arts.

Patriotic Events Support Our Troops Supply Drive August 6 – September 6 Collection canisters for personal care items, batteries and individual snack packages will be located at City Hall and the Renaud Center. A list of most-requested items and additional sites will be posted at www.ofallon.mo.us/supply-drive. Donations of $18.50 per box are needed to cover mailing costs. “Stamp of Support” monetary donations can be dropped off at City Hall with checks made payable to “H.E.R.O.E.S. Care.”

National Day of Service and Remembrance Patriot Day Blood Drive Friday, September 6 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., O'Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) Donate in honor of the heroes who bravely rushed in to help!

Remembrance Walk (one mile) Saturday, September 7 8:30 a.m. Meet at the 9-11 Memorial outside the O'Fallon Municipal Centre’s (City Hall's) east entrance.

Citizens United in Service Saturday, September 7 9:30–11:30 a.m. Lend a helping hand to community projects, register by contacting 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us.

Patriot Day Ceremony Wednesday, September 11 8:30 a.m., 9-11 Memorial at the O'Fallon Municipal Centre Please join us in honoring our first responders and remembering the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.

POW/MIA Remembrance Day Ceremony Friday, September 20 7 p.m., Veterans Memorial Walk This candle-lighting ceremony is dedicated to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces who remain missing in action or imprisoned on foreign soil, and the families who are waiting to welcome them home again.

Veterans Day Ceremony Monday, November 11 11 a.m., Veterans Memorial Walk Join in a ceremony honoring and thanking our veterans for keeping our country safe.

On Stage this Summer 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 one hour before each show. Performances times are Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. • $10 general admission • $8 seniors (ages 55+), children and students (ages 6–17) • $2 children (ages 2–5) no charge for children under 2 and held on lap

Veterans Report O’Fallon Veterans Assistance Office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (except holidays) 636-379-5577 or veteransaffairs@ofallon.mo.us 3rd floor, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) The Veterans Assistance Office is staffed by US 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.

• $2 additional charge at the box office

O'FallonTheatreWorks' presents The Miracle Worker June 21–23 and 28–30 Left blind and deaf in the wake of a childhood illness, Helen Keller is a frustrated mystery to her exhausted family. After years of chasing cures, her parents send for a governess from the prestigious Perkins Institute for the Blind. Enter Annie Sullivan, a lively, stubborn girl of twenty who has herself experienced blindness and endured many operations. Driven by the demons of a traumatic past, Annie embarks upon a battle to bring light into the darkness of Helen’s mind. It takes every ounce of Annie’s patience, creativity and fiery spirit to transform Helen Keller into the brilliant young woman she is destined to become.

O'FallonTheatreWorks' presents God of Carnage August 23–25 and August 30 – September 1 Winner of the 2009 Tony Award for Best Play, God of Carnage relates an evening in the lives of two couples, residents of au upscale Brooklyn neighborhood, who meet to discuss a playground incident. The four of them agree to discuss the incident civilly, but, as the night wears on, the polite veneer breaks down.

Communications Director • Tom Drabelle

tdrabelle@ofallon.mo.us

Web and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek

bwieczorek@ofallon.mo.us

Communications Specialist • Susan Etchason

setchason@ofallon.mo.us

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Veterans at higher risk for Hep C; get tested now One in 30 of the population has the Hepatitis C virus and doesn’t know it. If you are a veteran born between 1945 and 1965, your odds of having it are even greater. A study by the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) shows that up to 10% of all veterans in the VHA system tested positive for hepatitis C. Of this total number, 62.7% were noted to be Vietnam veterans. The second most frequent group is listed as post-Vietnam at 18.2%, followed by 4.8% Korean conflict, 4.3% post-Korean conflict, 4.2% from WWII, and 2.7% Persian Gulf era veterans. Veterans who wish to be tested for Hepatitis C may contact the VHA to request testing. For more information on VA care for Hepatitis C, visit www.hepatitis.va.gov.

Streamlined claims and appeals process available for Veterans U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced in February 2019 that it has implemented the Veterans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act of 2017, which represents one of the most significant statutory changes to benefit Veterans in decades. The new law streamlines the department’s current claims and appeals process for veterans. Veterans will now have greater choice in how VA reviews their disagreement with a claims decision and enjoy timely resolutions of disagreements through a streamlined process. The VA’s goal is to complete supplemental claims and higherlevel reviews in an average of 125 days, and decisions appealed to the Board for direct review in an average of 365 days. Under the legacy process, decisions averaged three to seven years. For more details, visit www.va.gov/decision-reviews.

Roscoe’s Den Trash, Recycling and Yard Waste Announcements Holiday schedule After Independence Day, service moves to the next day for trash, recycling and yard waste collection. There’s no change in service for Labor Day week.

O’Fallon’s weekly yard waste service helps customers keep their yards looking good Get the convenience of neatly disposing of limbs, yard trimmings and grass clippings at the curb each week with O’Fallon’s yard waste service. If you’re not yet enrolled in yard waste collection, you can sign up at any time. The cost is $5.62 per month, or $11.25 per bi-monthly trash bill. A one-year commitment is required. To sign up or for more details, contact staff at 636-272-0477 or ofallonrecycles@ofallon.mo.us.

O’Fallon’s bi-monthly Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Events You can bring outdated or broken electronics and appliances to O’Fallon’s Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Events from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 8, and Saturday, August 10. The drop-off will be held in the west parking lot at CarShield Field, located at the corner of Tom Ginnever Avenue and T.R. Hughes Boulevard. The drop-off is free except for the following items and fees: • LED/LCD/Plasma televisions = $20 • CRT Monitors = $5 • CRT TV’s 26” or less = $30 • CRT TV’s 27” or greater = $50 • Wood console and true big screen/projection TVs = $50 • Any freon containing unit = $10

Free bi-monthly Bulk Waste Drop-off Summer bulk-waste drop-offs are scheduled for 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 15, and Saturday, August 17. During these 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. The transfer station is located at 1572 Progress West Lane.

ROSCOE says: Have a happy and safe Fourth of July!

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.

Environmental Services offers free “Shred-It” Day O'Fallon's Environmental Services Department is offering a “Shred-It” Day where residents can bring in boxes of paper to be shred in a secure environment. The event takes place on Saturday, September 14, from 8 a.m. until noon at the Environmental Services building at 1550 Progress West Lane. To participate, simply 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 filled to overflowing. 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 for any over the limit. 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. All of the material will be shredded including the boxes if they are not wanted back. The event is indoors, so it will be rain or shine. Please do not bring computer discs or hanging file rods. If you can tear it, then you can shred it with this complimentary service. It is okay for documents to have staples or paper clips.

www.ofallon.mo.us Summer 2019

Police Bulletins Police Department Briefs Special Needs Locator Program The O’Fallon Missouri Police Department has implemented a Special Needs Locator Program for its residents and surrounding areas utilized for a variety of cognitive disorders. This program’s purpose is to help locate an individual with a cognitive disorder who has become lost, disoriented or is unable to effectively communicate. The program is voluntary for individuals living with, but not limited to: • Alzheimer’s Disease • Dementia • Autism • Huntington’s Disease • Cerebral Palsy Family members can register their loved ones at the O’Fallon Police Department. The information is confidential and only accessible by the O’Fallon Police Department. The database will contain pedigree information along with a current photograph. This photograph will be accessible to all patrol officers who encounter a lost or disoriented person. Additionally, residents who want to make first responders aware of people living in their home who may not respond, may receive a free sticker that tells responders there may be someone with special needs inside. To register your loved one with the O’Fallon Special Needs Locator Program or if you have any questions, please contact Lt. Pat Hossenlopp at 636-240-3200, ext. 5662. The program has no cost.

SWIFT 9-1-1 emergency notification system Get texts, emails or phone calls about emergencies, law enforcement alerts and more with City’s emergency notification system, SWIFT 9-1-1. The service is free to all O’Fallon residents. For the system to be fully-effective, all residents are asked to check their personal information to make sure it is up-to-date by clicking on the link on the red bar on the front page of the City’s website at www.ofallon.mo.us.

Get updates: @OFallonPolice

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

www.ofallon.mo.us/PD Help prevent crime by registering your home camera or surveillance system When crime happens, the O’Fallon Police Department searches high and low for clues. The growing trend of homeowners adding home or doorbell cameras and surveillance systems has given police a new tool to help identify suspects or possible witnesses, even if the crime does not happen on your property. If you have a doorbell camera or surveillance system, sign up for our Residential Surveillance Program. All you have to do to participate is be a resident or business owner who wants to alert us they have surveillance on their property. This only gives us your contact information, not access to any cameras or video. The O’Fallon Police Department will only contact you in the event a crime occurs in the vicinity of your home or business. To register, please visit www.ofallon.mo.us/PD.

Special needs emergency stickers available In the continuing effort to make sure residents of O'Fallon are as safe as possible, the O’Fallon Police Department has stickers (free of charge) that will alert first responders that an individual has special needs. These stickers are for homes or vehicles, and are intended to aid first responders when interacting with those who may have difficulty with verbal communication. The stickers are available for residents who are deaf, have Alzheimer’s, dementia, epilepsy, diabetes, autism or other special needs. If you or a loved one is a resident and are interested in getting a sticker, please contact Sgt. Rob Kendall of the O’Fallon Police Department at rkendall@ofallon.mo.us or call 636-240-3200.

Stormwater Runoff, Pollutants and Failing Creeks Why is it important to care about stormwater runoff and what ends up in our creeks and storm drains? Stormwater runoff is not treated, and what goes into runoff and storm drains eventually ends up in a creek. Creeks are vital life sources for our natural environment including wildlife and our ground water resources. Locally, our creeks feed the Mississippi River which means that anything that leaves our City via the creeks has the potential to do harm further down river and eventually the ocean. The more polluted these natural water sources become, the more we increase water pollution overall. That means the waterways are less fishable and swimmable. In many areas, including much of O’Fallon, water from the rivers is used for drinking water and the more polluted the waterways become, the more expensive it is to clean, meaning your water bill increases. Here are some suggestions on what you can do to keep our waterways as clean as possible: • Trash: Discard trash in the proper place. This includes cigarette butts. The nicotine acts as a pesticide to some aquatic wildlife. • Recycle • Animal Waste: Dispose of it properly, not in the storm sewer, creek or stream. • Vehicles: Fix leaking vehicles. The fluids they leak on the ground end up in the storm sewer when it rains or gets hosed off. Don’t deposit unwanted oil, antifreeze or other automotive liquids into storm drains. Wash them on the grass or in a commercial car wash to prevent harmful detergent chemicals from washing into the drain or use environmentally friendly detergent which is lower in phosphorus. • Lawn & Yard Waste: Use O’Fallon’s yard waste service or compost it, do not deposit it in storm drains. Do not deposit into creeks or streams or on their bank as it can do more damage to the natural state of the banks by choking out viable vegetation with deeper root structure which can help to stabilize the banks naturally and prevent them from eroding and failing. • Pesticides & Fertilizers: Use as directed. More does not necessarily mean better. The overflow just ends up washing down the storm sewer. • Pools: Make sure the pH is between 6.5 and 7.0 and no chemicals are present before draining the pool or discarding filter backwash. For further information, questions or comments, please contact Michele Gremminger, Stormwater Management Coordinator at 636-379-7632 or micheleg@ofallon.mo.us.

Public Assistance O’Fallon’s grants and assistance programs can help eligible residents with home maintenance, transportation and other needs 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 and transportation to essential living destinations.

Disabled Transportation Assistance Program O’Fallon residents with a disability may be eligible for free transportation through our program with OATS, Inc. The program provides a limited number of rides to and from essential living destinations. Destinations can include medical appointments, banking, grocery and personal care shopping. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available. To see if you or a loved one is eligible, please call 636-379-5411 or download an application at www.ofallon.mo.us/disabled-transportationprogram.

Home Improvement Loan Program Resident homeowners who need to have an aging heating/ cooling unit replaced, a roof repaired or new windows installed are encouraged to check into O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Program. A limited amount of funds are available each year to provide five-year 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. Review income limits and download an application at www. ofallon.mo.us/home-improvement-loan-program.

Down Payment Assistance Program Do you have a friend or family member who wants to move to O'Fallon? The Down Payment Assistance Program for lowincome, first-time home buyers provides zero-interest forgivable $10,000 loans towards the down payment on purchasing a home in O'Fallon. Pre-purchase housing counseling is required for eligibility. For more details, go to www.ofallon.mo.us/downpayment-assistance-program.

O’FallonTV’s “O’Fallon Matters” monthly newsmagazine informs viewers about local issues. Watch at youtube.com/OFallonTV

www.ofallon.mo.us Summer 2019

Calendar

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/events.

June

August

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Food Truck Frenzy, 5:30–8:30 p.m., Sports Park

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

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

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

Free bulk item drop-off, 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m., Renaud Center

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

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

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

20 Concert in the Park, 6:30 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

21-23 OTW presents The Miracle Worker, City Hall

O'Day Theatre in the Park, 7:30 p.m.

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

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

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

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

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

28-30 OTW presents The Miracle Worker, City Hall

July

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

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

23-25 OTW presents God of Carnage, City Hall 25

Reptiles & Raptors, 2 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

2-4 Heritage and Freedom Fest & Parade, see pages 2-4

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

30-31 OTW presents God of Carnage, City Hall

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m., Renaud Center

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

OTW presents God of Carnage, 7:30 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

Cultural Arts Commission, 6:30 p.m., Renaud Center

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

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

Theatre in the Park, 8 p.m., O'Day Park Amphitheater

Free Shred-it Event, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

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

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

Convention & Visitors Bureau, 3 p.m.

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

25 29

City Council, 7:30 p.m.; workshop, 5:30 p.m. Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

O’Fallon Jammin’ concert, 6:30–9 p.m.

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

September

20-22 CERT Training Fall into the Arts, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., O'Day Park

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.