O'Fallon Update newsletter - Winter 2019-20 by City of O'Fallon

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

Winter 2019–20 • www.ofallon.mo.us

Making holiday memories in O'Fallon O’Fallon: One of America’s ”Best Places to Live” O’Fallon was recently named one of the country’s “Best Places to Live,” according to Money Magazine’s list of America’s 100 best cities. O’Fallon ranked 24th on the 2019 list of cities with a population greater than 50,000. Money praised O’Fallon for its rich history, proximity to local outdoor activities and its “quaint, family-friendly feel.” To see the complete list of cities on this year’s list, please visit money.com/money/collection/ best-places-to-live-2019. O’Fallon is one of two Missouri cities to be ranked in the Top 100, joining Blue Springs (#96).

ur wonderful city has once again been named as one of “America’s Best Places to Live” by Money Magazine, jumping to #24 on the list this year. I am so proud to live and work here, and I am grateful to all of the people who make O’Fallon the great place we call home. While this is not the first time we have received this accolade, it is an honor every time. I know first-hand the efforts that go into keeping our city the place we all want to live, work and play. As we head into the holiday season, we see examples of the great opportunities for fun and fellowship that make our City so great. Throughout O’Fallon, families will continue their own long-standing traditions and build new ones. They’ll help those in need through Cornucopia of Care, meet Santa at the Krekel Civic Center for painting and pizza, or take in the spectacular display at Celebration of Lights in Fort Zumwalt Park. When you are out doing your holiday shopping, we appreciate your support of O’Fallon businesses, too. Dining and shopping at local businesses provides an investment in our community now and for the future, and I thank you for keeping it in the “O” this holiday season. The investment you make in O’Fallon is one of the many ways we have earned the title as one of the best places to live in America. Our ranking is a testament to our residents, businesses, civic organizations, schools, churches, community volunteers, elected officials and city staff. As much as I am honored to be part of a city who has received so many accolades, we cannot rest on our laurels. As we close this year with pride, we also welcome 2020 with excitement for new things to come. We will work hard to continue making the improvements around our city that help our residents and businesses flourish. On behalf of the City Council, City staff and my family, have a merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year. Sincerely,

In this issue 3

Celebration of Lights

Upcoming Events

Winter Weather

Water & Sewer Veterans Report

Roscoe’s Den

Renew O’Fallon Public Assistance

Bill Hennessy, Mayor

New baseball team to occupy CarShield Field in 2020 The O’Fallon City Council recently approved a lease with O’Fallon Baseball Associates, LLC, who will be placing a new baseball team at CarShield Field in time for the 2020 season. The new team, which will move to O’Fallon from their previous home in Hannibal, MO, will play in the Prospect League. The Prospect League is a summer collegiate wood-bat league offering family-friendly, affordable baseball entertainment and provides eligible college players experience using a wood bat in a competitive atmosphere and exposure to Major League Baseball scouts.

10 Police Bulletins 11 POW-MIA City 12 Calendar

Watch the State of the City Address on January 10 at 10 a.m.

Elected Officials

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

Ward 1 Councilmembers Dave Hinman

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

State of the City Address on January 10 On Friday, January 10, 2020, Mayor Bill Hennessy will deliver his annual State of the City Address at 10 a.m. in the City Council Chambers at O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). The public is welcome to attend this yearly update. The address also will stream live and be available on-demand after the event at www.ofallon.mo.us.

Deana Smith

Interested in running for O’Fallon City Council?

Ward 2 Councilmembers

If you are 21 or older, residing in O’Fallon and would like to serve on the O’Fallon City Council, you can file as a candidate for the April 7, 2020, election beginning Tuesday, December 17, 2019. 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.

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

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 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

Trash and Recycling 636-272-0477

O’Fallon Water & Sewer 636-281-2858

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 7, 2020. 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 7, 2020, 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, 2020; 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 7, 2020, election is from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 17, 2019. Filing will close on the last day for filing for this election at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21, 2020. A filing fee of $25.00 shall accompany each Declaration of Candidacy filed with the City Clerk. Candidates will draw a number at the time they fill out their Declaration of Candidacy. If you are a candidate and received the lowest number, your position will be the first candidate on the ballot for that position, second lowest number, second on the ballot and so on. At 8:00 a.m. on December 17th applications will be accepted in the City Clerk’s office. All candidates must file in person; no one else can file a Declaration of Candidacy for you. After December 17, candidates will be in order on the ballot as received by the City Clerk in her office.

For information contact Pamela L. Clement, CMC/MPCC City Clerk at 636-379-5555

Celebration of Lights More than 1 million holiday lights set in beautiful Fort Zumwalt Park Drive through Fort Zumwalt Park or book your specialty ride today! Nightly through December 30 (except December 25) Fort Zumwalt Park Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the season and bundle up your family for a tour of O’Fallon’s Celebration of Lights in Fort Zumwalt Park. Open at 6 p.m. nightly until December 30 (except on Christmas), the park’s winter landscape will sparkle with the fun and magic of the holidays. Starting with the twinkling Tunnel of Lights, the park’s onemile drive will shine with holiday scenes and settings with storybook and movie characters.

Drive Through – no reservation needed Drive through the park in your own vehicle from 6–9 p.m. on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays (except December 10 and 25). On Fridays and Saturdays, drive through hours are 6-10 p.m. No reservations are needed to drive through; admission is $10/car, $15/commercial vans and limousines, and $1/person on tour buses ($25 minimum). Get a discounted price of $8 on Tuesday nights. Bring a food pantry donation on Wednesday through Sunday nights and get $1 off admission.

Specialty Rides – reservations required Make your Celebration of Lights experience unique with one of the available specialty rides. Reservations are required; book today as reservations fill quickly! Riders are encouraged to bring blankets for extra warmth. Carriage and trolley rides are approximately 30 minutes, and the City train ride is approximately 20 minutes. Horse-drawn carriage rides are available nightly (except December 9, 10 and 25). The cost for a 12-passenger carriage is $145; a 6-passenger carriage is $65. Trolley rides are available Tuesday through Thursday (except December 10 and 25). Trolley rides are $15 per passenger (limit 15 passengers per trolley). Children ages 2 and under ride free if seated on a paying adult’s lap. To make reservations for horse-drawn carriage and trolley rides, call 636-938-1005. Train rides will be available on the following Mondays: December 2, 16 and 30. The cost is $10 per person for ages 12 and up and $5 for ages 1–11. To reserve your spot, call 636-379-5606.

The Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll Monday and Tuesday, December 9-10 6–8:30 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park As you and your family walk through the Celebration of Lights winter wonderland on these two special nights, you’ll see whimsical holiday scenes and beautiful nativities, listen to caroling, visit Santa and his reindeer, see model trains in action at the St. Charles Model Railroad display, and, watch fireworks over the lake at 7:25 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Pre-purchased admission is $3 per person and can be bought in advance through December 6 at the Parks and Recreation Administrative Office (400 Civic Park Drive) or at the Renaud Center (2650 Tri Sports Circle) during regular business hours. Admission is available at the gate for $5 per person (cash only). Ages 2 and under are free. You are welcome to bring strollers, wagons, walkers and wheelchairs, but no pets (except service dogs). Motorized hoverboards, coolers, kids’ scooters, remote-controlled vehicles, bikes and skateboards are not allowed. Free parking with heated shuttle service will be available at First Baptist Church, 8750 Veterans Memorial Parkway, and O’Fallon Christian Church, 9380 Veterans Memorial Parkway.

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

Celebration of Lights is sponsored by the City of O’Fallon with participation by local businesses and civic organizations. A portion of the proceeds is given to locally-based charities. For more information, please visit www.ofallon.mo.us/COL.

Upcoming Events Santa’s Painting Workshop

Spring Fling Adult Dance

Saturday, December 14 10–11 a.m., Krekel Civic Center

Saturday, March 7 7–9 p.m., O’Day Lodge

Santa is stopping by the Krekel Civic Center to set up his shop and help you create a special holiday painting. You never know, Mrs. Claus and Santa’s helpers may show up, too! This session is limited to 16 participants. The cost is $12 ($15 for non-residents). Register by December 6 at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec.

Shake off the winter blues by coming out to O’Day Lodge for our Spring Fling Adult Dance. Come dance to your favorite songs and socialize with all of your friends. Snacks, water, tea, lemonade and coffee will be provided all you need to bring are your dancing shoes! The cost is $10 per person ($12 for nonresidents), and individuals, couples and groups are welcome! Register at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec.

Pizza with Santa Saturday, December 14 11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m., Krekel Civic Center We think Santa needs a break from cookies and milk. Join us at the Krekel Civic Center for a visit with Santa, games, crafts, pizza and beverages for all registrants. Parents and grandparents, please be sure to register as well if you’d like to eat with your child, and don’t forget to bring your camera for that special shot with Santa. The cost is $12 ($15 for non-residents). Register by December 6 at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec.

Snowball Blizzard Blitz Friday, December 20 7–8:30 p.m., Renaud Center Ready for winter? Head to the Renaud Center for an indoor version of this cold-weather pastime! Kids ages 5-12 can join the friendly snowball fight in the gym, where there will be plenty of obstacles to hide behind as you make your way across the room with an arsenal of cotton snowballs to throw at each other. The cost is $14 per child ($17 for non-residents). Register at www.renaudcenter.com.

Nerf Warz Friday, January 17 6–7 p.m. (Ages 4–8), or 7–8 p.m. (Ages 8+); Renaud Center Head to the Renaud Center for this family-friendly Nerf Warz event! Each session will consist of two 15-minute games on our inflatable Nerf Field. A shooting range and other activities will be available between games. Each player will be supplied with a pair of safety glasses and an armory of 7.2 cm foam darts, but participants must bring their own Nerf gun. No outside darts will be allowed. The cost is $20 ($23 for non-residents). Register by Thursday, January 16 at www.renaudcenter.com.

O’FallonTheatreWorks presents The Man from Earth Friday, Saturday and Sunday, March 20-22 and 27-29 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:00 p.m. matinees on Sunday O'Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) The Man from Earth depicts the story of history professor John Oldman and his sudden decision to leave the university and move away. Concerned for their friend, many colleagues of John’s from the university come to visit his home and give him a going away party; but their true intention is to discover why he has decided to leave. Little do they know that the truth they’re seeking is not one they wish to uncover. Purchase O’FallonTheatreWorks tickets at www.ofallon.mo.us/parks&rec. • $12 general admission • $10 seniors (ages 55+), children and students (ages 6-17) • $5 children (ages 2-5) • No charge for children under age 2 (and held on lap) • Discount rate for groups of 10 or more • $2 additional charge at the box office, which opens an hour before each show.

Save the date for these spring events! O'Fallon: Game On • April 24 OZZIE SMITH SPORTS COMPLEX • NEW THIS YEAR: 21+ SECTION

Founders' Day • May 2 FORT ZUMWALT PARK • ARTISANS AND PERFORMERS WANTED

Volunteer Events Cornucopia of Care Food Drive Through Friday, December 13 Join Volunteer O’Fallon as we collect non-perishable, boxed, and canned items for local food pantries and their families in need through December 13. Non-perishable items can include staples such as flour, cooking oils, sugar, spices, peanut butter, jelly, cereal, oatmeal, mac & cheese, pasta and sauce, soups, instant meals, canned fruit and vegetables, and canned meals such as ravioli and spaghetti and meatballs.

MLK Day of Service Projects

Donations can be dropped off at any of the following collection sites during their normal business hours:

Monday, January 20 10 a.m. – noon, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)

• Kenny Wilson Center, 1058 Rondale Court

The MLK Day of Service builds on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life and teachings for service projects that create a sense of community and shared responsibility. Join us as we make paper carnations and Valentine cards for O’Fallon’s senior care facility residents, and share in an act of kindness that brings the community together. Pre-registration is required. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us for more information.

• Krekeler Jewelers, 2938 Highway K • Lindell Bank, 4521 Highway K • O’Fallon Municipal Centre, 100 North Main Street • Renaud Center, 2650 Tri Sports Circle For more information on how you can be a part of this year’s Cornucopia of Care Food Drive, contact Volunteer Services at volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5417, or visit www.ofallon.mo.us/cornucopia-of-care for more information.

Cornucopia of Care Sort & Deliver Saturday, December 14 9–11 a.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) You and your family are invited to help spread holiday cheer in our community and support families in need by sorting, boxing and delivering donated non-perishable items to area food pantries. Pre-registration is required. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us for more information.

Winter Blood Drive Presented by Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center Friday, January 10 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) January is National Volunteer Blood Donor Month. Each volunteer donor can help as many as four people survive a lifethreatening trauma or health condition. Make an appointment via the City’s website, www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer, or contact Volunteer O’Fallon at volunteer@ofallon.mo.us or 636-379-5417. Walk-ins are also welcome. All inquiries regarding blood donation eligibility and processes should be directed to Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center at www.bloodcenter.org or 800-747-5401.

Alternative Spring Break Monday, March 9 – Friday, March 13 Need a nature break or a stay-cation with impact? Anyone eager to get outdoors during their spring break is invited to participate in activities to benefit O’Fallon’s parks and the thousands of visitors who spend time in them. Students, faculty and families are welcome, as well as scouts, church groups, school clubs, organizations and others who want to join in. Pre-registration is required. Contact Volunteer Services at 636-379-5417 or volunteer@ofallon.mo.us for more information.

Mission: Clean Stream Saturday, April 4 9 a.m. – noon Spend the morning jumping in creeks with Volunteer O’Fallon! Help maintain a clean water system by clearing litter and debris from local creeks before it has a chance to move downstream, clog waterways and have a negative impact on native plants and wildlife. To join the fun, please pre-register by March 30 at www.ofallon.mo.us/volunteer.

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

www.ofallon.mo.us Winter 2019–20

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 also can 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.

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.

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.

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 by making 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.

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Veterans Report

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

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 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.

VA Homeless Veterans Initiative The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers a hotline to assist veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Calls are free and confidential, and you can call for yourself or on behalf of a veteran you know. The trained VA responders will provide access to counselors and help veterans and their families by connecting them with federal, state and local programs, partners, agencies and community services that can help end and prevent homelessness. Assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at 1-877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).

Missouri Veteran Awards program

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 as 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. FOG also can cause issues in the pipes of your home, producing clogs or backups. 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.)

The Veterans Award Program through The Missouri National Guard provides a medal, medallion and certificate to veterans who served in the following conflicts: World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn. WWII veterans who participated in the Normandy invasion in France are also eligible to receive a replica of the Jubilee of Liberty medal. Veterans, spouses of veterans or the eldest living survivor of veterans who meet the requirements can apply. Visit www.moguard.com/veteran-awards for eligibility details and the application.

Replacement of Medals Requests for the issuance or replacement of military service medals, decorations and awards should be directed to the specific branch of the military in which the veteran served. A Veteran Service Officer can assist in filing for replacement medals or awards.

Communications Director • Tom Drabelle

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.

tdrabelle@ofallon.mo.us

Web and Design Administrator • Bryan Wieczorek bwieczorek@ofallon.mo.us

Communications Specialist • Susan Etchason

setchason@ofallon.mo.us

www.ofallon.mo.us Winter 2019–20

Roscoe’s Den Trash, recycling and yard waste announcements Winter yard waste pick-up schedule

Winter Trash and recycling holiday schedule

Weekly yard waste collection stops December 13 and resumes March 10, 2020. 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:

• Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24 No change in service

Dec. 17–20 • Jan. 14–17 • Feb. 18–21

• Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25 Next-day service through the rest of week • New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1 Next-day service through the rest of week

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.

• Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, Monday, January 20 No change in service

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

After the holidays, recycle your evergreen tree

Saturday, December 7 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., parking lot southwest of CarShield Field

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 at the drop-off.

You can bring outdated or broken electronics and appliances to O’Fallon’s Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, December 7. 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 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 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.

• Presidents’ Day, Monday, February 17 No change in service

Free drop-off options

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 the next bill. Trees will be scheduled for pick up on Thursdays, starting December 26 through January 30. 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.

Free bulk waste drop-off Saturday, December 14 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Environmental Services Transfer Station The final bulk-waste drop-off for 2019 is scheduled for 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. During this event, 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.

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

Recycle unwanted light strands If you have light strands that don’t work anymore, you can recycle them free of charge until January 20. Simply remove the lights from the trees and drop them off at one of four locations: Sports Park and Ozzie Smith Sports Complex parking lots, the Renaud Center and 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.

Renew O'Fallon Below are updates for some of the major projects going on around O’Fallon. Visit www.ofallon.mo.us/projects to see a comprehensive list of projects near you.

Bryan Road - Phase III Project The purpose of this project is to provide slab removal and replacement, as well as street entrance and sidewalk repairs/ upgrades, along Bryan Road from Great Warrior Drive to just north of the Feise Road/Bryan Road intersection. This is a continuation of the previous phases of the Bryan Road Project, from Veteran’s Memorial Parkway to Great Warrior Drive. These improvements will allow for improved rideability on Bryan Road for the residents, as well as correcting several existing drainage issues along the sides of the road. In addition, any existing sidewalk issues will be corrected and be made to comply with ADA regulations. Construction should begin in Spring 2020, pending weather.

I-70 Improvement - Phase I Work on Phase 1 of the I-70 Improvements Project has progressed significantly over the past few months. Both outer roads are complete, Brunjes Drive has opened as a connector between Drennan Parkway and Veterans Memorial Parkway, and paving work in K/Main through the intersection is complete. Engineering continues on the U-turn ramp under Highway K, and that work will commence in the coming weeks.

Stage Coach Landing & Butternut Stage Drive Stream Improvements Project The stream just east of Highway K and South of Laura Hill Road has experienced excessive degradation and widening, causing bank failures, soil erosion and tree loss as well as the tops of the banks encroaching toward the adjacent houses. In order to stabilize the stream gradient, controls will be placed in the bottom of the channel and limestone walls will be added to the outside bends of the stream up to three feet from the bottom of the channel. The banks above the limestone wall will be constructed with 1-foot thick natural lifts, including native grass seed and willow steaks. Construction is anticipated to be complete in Summer 2020.

Public Assistance Residents 65+ or disabled, save your 2019 utility receipts to file for tax rebates in 2020 If you are a resident age 65+ or with disabilities and you’d like to recoup some of your phone and City utility taxes, be sure to save copies of your 2019 gas, electric and phone bills, including your cell phone. With those in hand, plus your completed tax return, you may be able to file for O’Fallon’s utility tax rebates in 2020. To qualify, you must be (1) an O’Fallon resident who is 65+, or (2) you have been determined totally disabled by the Social Security Administration (legal proof of disability required). And, (3) you must have an annual gross adjusted gross income that meets Federal guidelines. The new guidelines will be issued before the end of January. The income limits will be posted at www.ofallon.mo.us/seniors when they become available. Watch for more information on the rebate period in the spring newsletter.

O’Fallon’s grants and assistance programs can help eligible residents with home maintenance and other needs For low-income residents and others who qualify for help, the City of O’Fallon offers a variety of programs including the following Home Improvement Loan Program and Siding Program. For information on other O'Fallon grant programs for homeowners and residents, visit www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

Home Improvement Loan Program helps with home repairs Keeping your home safe and in good repair is every homeowner’s responsibility. If you need to replace an aging heating/cooling unit, repair a roof or replace windows, find out if you can take advantage of O’Fallon’s Home Improvement Loan Program. Funds are available for five-year forgivable loans of up to $5,000 to assist with maintenance issues and code violations. Applicants must meet certain requirements, including household income limits, owning and occupying the house for at least one year and be current on mortgage payments and real estate taxes. You can download an application at www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

Protect your home with O’Fallon’s Siding Program If you’re a low-income resident homeowner, the Siding Program provides grants of up to $10,000 for siding repairs or replacement. Funds are disbursed on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. For more information about the program visit www.ofallon.mo.us/grants.

www.ofallon.mo.us Winter 2019–20

Police Bulletins Police Department Briefs

www.ofallon.mo.us/PD

Join Team O’Fallon for the Polar Plunge Saturday, February 1 10 a.m. (plunge at noon), 100 Cognac Court, Lake Saint Louis The annual Polar Plunge fundraiser is fun to watch as costumewearing teams plunge bravely, if briefly, into the frigid waters of Lake Ste. Louise with onlookers cheering them on. A project of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, proceeds 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 join O’Fallon’s team, visit www.somo.org. This year’s plunge is a unique opportunity to show your support for the athletes and staff of Special Olympics Missouri. Last spring a devastating tornado ripped through Jefferson City, impacting many in the community and specifically the brand new state-of-the-art Training For Life campus that had just opened for the special athletes in our state. Reconstruction is underway; however, Team O’Fallon and all of the law enforcement agencies that host these plunges want to make a strong statement this year by a show of support during plunge season. Whether you are a veteran or a novice plunger, all are welcome. To support the athletes go to the link listed above and tell them the O’Fallon Police Department sent you!

Socializing with your O’Fallon Police Department Did you know you can connect with the O’Fallon Police Department on social media? Follow us on one of the platforms below, and you’ll get a taste of the police work that goes on throughout our community. You might laugh a little; you will learn a lot. More importantly, it can keep you informed about important situations in real time and provide reminders for general safety.

Facebook: @ofallonpolice

Instagram: @ofallon_police

Twitter: @ofallonpolice

LinkedIn: O’Fallon Police Department

Nextdoor: O’Fallon Police Department

O’Fallon Update

City of O’Fallon Newsletter

To learn more about what it takes to become a part of the O’Fallon Police Department, contact Officer Tony Michalka at 636-980-5935 or amichalka@ofallon.mo.us.

O’Fallon Citizens Police Academy February 18 – April 2 (no class on March 10 and March 12) 7–9:30 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, a chance to ride along on patrol, plus discussions of police investigations, less-lethal weapon use, drug awareness and more. Applications will be available after January 1 at www.ofallon.mo.us/PD/citizens-police-academy or they can be picked up at the O’Fallon Police Department. Registration closes Friday, February 7. For more information, please email tbateman@ofallon.mo.us or bharr@ofallon.mo.us.

O’Fallon’s Community Emergency Response Team Friday – Sunday, March 6–8 Streets Department Building, 1089 Public Works Drive Attend this free, hands-on workshop on disaster preparedness! People from all walks of life are invited to learn basic disaster response skills through O’Fallon’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. The O’Fallon Police Department’s course will cover disaster preparation and survival, disaster psychology, basic medical treatment, terrorism, fire safety and light search and rescue. Classes meet from 6–10 p.m. on Friday and 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Participants completing the course will be able to keep valuable training materials for reference and participate in additional free training each month. Visit www.ofallon. mo.us/PD/CERT to get more information and to register. For questions, call 636-379-3816 or email Officer Pat Helton at phelton@ofallon.mo.us.

City of O’Fallon named POW-MIA City The City of O’Fallon joined a growing list of American cities to be honored as POW-MIA cites for its dedication to America’s Veterans and especially those who never returned home from their service.

O’Fallon was the 35th city across the country to receive the designation and received the award at a recent City Council meeting. Mayor Bill Hennessy had heard about the program over the summer and asked O’Fallon Veterans Commission members Sheldon

Hartsfield and John Roth to lead the application process. The pair met with representatives from Jefferson Barracks who reviewed the City’s application. Hartsfield said the award committee responded enthusiastically to O’Fallon’s tradition of honoring those who have served through the City’s Veterans Memorial Walk, which includes an eternal flame in remembrance of those service members who never returned, other Veterans services and ceremonies dedicated to those who served. “For years, O’Fallon has been the leader in my eyes for what we do for our Veterans,” said Hartsfield. “This honor just validates that. There’s a reason O’Fallon continues to be named one of the best cities for Vets. We are dedicated to working for our vets and supporting their families.”

Calendar December 1-30 Celebration of Lights (closed 12/25)

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.

February 1

Daddy-Daughter Sweetheart Dance, 6:30 p.m., Krekel Civic Center

Free Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Candy Cane Hunt, 9 a.m., Krekel Civic Center

Historic Preservation Commission, 6 p.m.

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

1-13 Cornucopia of Care Food Drive 7

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

9-10 Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll, 6–8:30 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park

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

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

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

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Free Bulk Waste Drop-off, 7 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Santa’s Workshop, 10-11 a.m., Krekel Civic Center

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

Pizza with Santa, 11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m., Krekel Civic Center

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

Cornucopia of Care Sort & Deliver, 9 a.m.

Presidents’ Day, City Hall CLOSED

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

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

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

Municipal Court, 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Justice Center

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve, City Hall CLOSED

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Christmas, City Hall, Renaud Center, Cel. of Lights CLOSED

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

January 1

New Year’s Day, City Hall CLOSED

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Duo Duals Pool Event, 5:30 p.m., Renaud Center

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

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

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

Winter Blood Drive, 9 a.m.

State of the City Address; 10 a.m.

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Senior Resident Advisory Committee, 9 a.m.

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

Nerf Warz, 6 p.m., Renaud Center

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, City Hall CLOSED

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

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

March 4

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

Planning and Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.

Spring Fling Adult Dance, 7 p.m., O’Day Lodge

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

Parks Advisory Board, 7 p.m.

Board of Adjustment, 5:30 p.m.

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

Veterans Commission, 7 p.m.

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

Municipal Court, 9 a.m., Justice Center

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

Public Works Advisory Committee, 7 p.m.

20-22 OTW presents The Man from Earth, City Hall 23

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

Municipal Court, 5 p.m., Justice Center

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

27-29 OTW presents The Man from Earth, City Hall

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.