Help shape O’Fallon’s future by serving on civic boards and commissions
O’Fallon has ten boards, commissions, and committees whose members are all volunteer citizens who care about our community. If you want to become active in local government, provide direction to meet the needs of residents (your neighbors) and share your knowledge, consider applying for one of our open positions! Applications are accepted year-round. We’re currently seeking members for the following:
• Board of
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Learn more and apply online at www.ofallonmo.gov/volunteer.
As the temperatures grow colder, we have so many wonderful things to look forward to in O’Fallon. I am continually honored to be the mayor of the great City of O’Fallon. Our city continues to be a great place to live, work, and play. This edition of the O’Fallon Update is proof of all the incredible things happening in O’Fallon this winter season.
Our annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, November 20th at City Hall. That evening, we will have the always-anticipated Ho-Ho-Ho contest with the kiddos and then Santa will help me light our tree in the City Hall rotunda. While at the tree lighting, you can visit with the cast of our upcoming O’Fallon Theatre Works production of Scrooge: A Christmas Carol.
As always, my family will be among the first to visit the bright and colorful Celebration of Lights at Fort Zumwalt Park. The display will be open nightly through December 30th, except on Christmas Day. Once again this year, the Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll will be open three nights! Come walk with us on December 8th, 9th, and 10th.
One of the things that makes our O’Fallon community so great during the holiday season is the generosity that our fellow neighbors show to each other. There is no better time to share goodwill than by helping the Cornucopia of Care Food Drive. By doing so, you can help restock pantry shelves with essential food items. Even the smallest donation can bring the biggest smile to the faces of families as they gather around their table.
Our O’Fallon staff stays hard at work being prepared for all types of weather events, and right now they are gearing up for snow removal so they can keep traffic moving. See page 8 for details on how you can help our crews work safely and efficiently.
Our Communications staff has been hard at work this year bringing us new websites. Our main City website has changed to www.ofallonmo.gov, and along with that site, our Renaud Center, Heritage and Freedom Fest, and Select O’Fallon sites all received a refreshing new look.
Coming in 2025, an enhanced online portal will make your O’Fallon utility bill paying experience easier and there will be a new look to your utility bill. For more information about the new look, go to page 3.
I wish each of you a warm and pleasant holiday season. I hope it is filled with memorymaking and times of joy. From my family to yours, happy holidays!
Sincerely,
Bill Hennessy, Mayor
Elected Officials
Mayor Bill Hennessy
636-379-5500
bhennessy@ofallonmo.gov
Ward 1 Councilmembers
Deana Smith
636-379-5582
dsmith@ofallonmo.gov
Ron Epps
636-379-5581
repps@ofallonmo.gov
Ward 2 Councilmembers
Tom “Duke” Herweck
636-379-5583 therweck@ofallonmo.gov
Lisa Thompson
636-379-5591 lthompson@ofallonmo.gov
Ward 3 Councilmembers
Nathan Bibb
636-379-5585 nbibb@ofallonmo.gov
Steve Koskela
636-379-5586 skoskela@ofallonmo.gov
Ward 4 Councilmembers
Jeff Kuehn
636-379-5587 jkuehn@ofallonmo.gov
Jim Ottomeyer
636-379-5580 jottomeyer@ofallonmo.gov
Ward 5 Councilmembers
Debbie Cook
636-379-5588 dcook@ofallonmo.gov
Linda Ragsdale
636-379-5584 lragsdale@ofallonmo.gov
City Council Meetings are typically held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at City Hall. (Except in Nov. & Dec.) Council Workshop begins at 5:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. Visit the City's Website Calendar for updates.
Citizens First Center
636-379-5553
City Hall
636-240-2000
Police (Non-emergency)
636-240-3200
O’Fallon Water & Sewer
636-281-2858
State of the City Address on January 10
On Friday, January 10, 2025, Mayor Bill Hennessy will deliver his annual State of the City Address at 10 a.m. in the City Council Chambers at the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall). The public is welcome to attend this yearly update. The address will also stream live and be available on-demand after the event at www.ofallonmo.gov.
Want to run for O’Fallon City Council or Mayor?
If you are 21 or older, have resided in O’Fallon for at least one year and would like to serve on the O’Fallon City Council or as Mayor, you can file as a candidate for the April 8, 2025, election beginning Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The Mayor of O'Fallon serves a term of four years. Five City Council seats will be up for election for three-year terms, one each in Wards 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Candidates can only file for a seat for the ward in which they live. See the notice below for more details about filing a declaration of candidacy.
CITY OF O’FALLON
100 North Main Street • O’Fallon, Missouri 63366
NOTICE OF ELECTION AND OF THE OPENING AND CLOSING FOR FILING DECLARATIONS OF CANDIDACY FOR ELECTIVE OFFICES IN THE CITY OF O’FALLON, MISSOURI, FOR THE ELECTION TO BE HELD APRIL 8, 2025.
Pursuant to Article 3, Section 3.2, Article 8 and Article 14, Section 14.5 of the Charter of the City of O'Fallon, Missouri, an election will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, for the purpose of electing a Mayor for a four (4) year term and (1) Council Member for Wards 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, each to serve a three (3) year term.
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 8, 2025, election is on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, beginning at 8:00 a.m. and ending at 4:30 p.m. Filing will continue
during regular business hours, which are 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Filing will close on the last day for filing for this election at 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 31, 2024. A filing fee of $25.00 shall accompany each Declaration of Candidacy filed with the City Clerk.
Declaration of Candidacy will be accepted in the City Clerk's office beginning at 8:00 a.m. on December 10, 2024. All candidates must file in person and show proof of address and age. Candidates filing on December 10, 2024, will draw a number at the time they file their Declaration of Candidacy. Candidates receiving the lowest number, of the numbers pulled that day for that office, will be the first candidate on the ballot for that position, all other numbers will be placed in ascending numerical order. Candidates who file after December 10, 2024, will be in order on the ballot as received by the City Clerk.
For information contact Bess Bacher, MPCC City Clerk at 636-379-5555
Municipal News
Civic Notices, Community Updates, and more
Utility Tax Rebate Program
The 2025 application for utility tax rebates will be accepted at City Hall beginning May 1, 2025 and ending May 31, 2025. Applications received after this date cannot be accepted.
Applicants must provide proof of age (65+), a completed income tax return for 2024, or current disability letter to verify income, as well as a copy of your utility bills from January 1, 2024-December 31, 2024.
The tax rebate covers gas, electric, and phone bills. If you are a disabled resident, you must also bring an official document showing that you are determined to be totally disabled by the Social Security Administration. The income limitations for this year are $57,800 for single households and $66,050 for married households.
The City of O'Fallon redesigns all City websites
O'Fallon succesfully launched the redesigned City website in October at www.ofallonmo.gov. The new website offers a user-friendly interface, improved navigation, and a wealth of information about City services, events, and community resources. After the success of the main site redesign, the City also launched the redesigned SelectOFallon.com, RenaudCenter.com, and HeritageAndFreedomFest.com websites.
In August, the City of O’Fallon also adopted a new web domain and all City email address domains were changed from user@ofallon.mo.us, to user@ofallonmo.gov. Remember to update your address books to the new domain, if you have not already.
New online portal for Utility Billing
The City of O’Fallon’s Utility Billing Division is upgrading its software, which is projected to be completed by the end of 2024.
The utility bill, late notice, and online portal will have a new look. The online portal accessed from the City’s website will allow you to make quick payments or view more details about your service by creating an account.
When an account is created, you will be able to see your metered and nonmetered services at your address, billing and payment history, past water consumption for two years (if applicable), along with your contact preferences, and have the ability to enroll in paperless e-billing.
Physical utility bills and late notices will have an updated look. The Utility Billing Division will send out a special insert with your first new bill explaining how to find information with the new design. Services and water consumption history will be listed on the bill, if applicable. Important information about service options, enrolling in emergency notifications, and other related programs offered by the City, will be included on the back of each bill.
The online portal and updated bill are expected to be available in January 2025. During the transition to the new portal, there will be a blackout period of about a week. Online and IVR payments will be unavailable during this time. Customers will receive a letter prior to the launch about changes to utility account numbers, and how to make payments during the blackout period.
8, 9, & 10
Nightly, November 29 through December 30
AT O’FALLON’S FORT ZUMWALT PARK
Celebration of Lights
November 29 – December 30
6-9 p.m. Nightly, Fort Zumwalt Park
PARK IS CLOSED TO VEHICLES ON DEC. 2, 8, 9, 10, & 16
It just wouldn’t feel like the holidays without the annual Celebration of Lights display in Fort Zumwalt Park! Join us at this magical winter wonderland for an unforgettable trip through our holiday light display. Celebration of Lights is full of hand-crafted scenes designed and funded by local organizations, churches, and booster clubs. Tickets must be purchased in advance; get yours at www.ofallonmo.gov/col.
Specialty rides
See the lights from an enclosed trolley, sleigh hayride, or the City train! Advanced purchase required, tickets for specialty rides sell out quickly! See www.ofallonmo.gov/col for more details, including pre-purchase information.
Upcoming Events
Santa’s Winter Wonderland • Ages 2-12
Saturday, December 7
Bring your little ones to meet Santa Claus and celebrate the season with crafts, cookies and milk, before embarking on a thrilling candy cane hunt! Children will also have the opportunity to get photos with Santa during the event! Pre-registration is required by Friday, November 29 or until spots are filled.
310109-A Sa 9:30-11:30A Dec 7 KCC $20/24
Old-Fashioned Holiday Stroll
Sunday, December 8, through Tuesday, December 10
6–8:30 p.m., Fort Zumwalt Park
For three nights only, visitors will walk along the illuminated route, visit with Santa and other special holiday characters, live reindeer, and enjoy a fireworks show over Lake Whetsel. Fireworks start at 7 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. each night.
Tickets are $8, and are now on sale! Tickets must be purchased in advance online at www.ofallonmo.gov/holiday-stroll, there will be no sales at the gate. All sales final.
Free parking and shuttles are ONLY available at Fort Zumwalt West High School, 1251 Turtle Creek Dr.
Snaps with Santa + Paws & Claus
Sunday, December 8
Santa loves taking pictures with kids of all ages, even if they have fur! Santa will be at O’Day Lodge on Sunday, December 8 to take photos with children and fur babies alike! Pre-registration is required; register by November 28. Price is per family up to 5 people, and 2 dogs for Paws & Claus.
310106 Su 10:00A-1:00P Dec 8 ODL $8
Snowball Blizzard Blitz • Ages 5-12
Friday, December 13
Bring your kids to the Renaud Center on Friday, December 13 for a snowball fight without all the mess! Participants will have a BLAST with fabric snowballs and a few surprise guests! This holiday favorite is sure to sell out! Please pre-register by December 6 to guarantee your spot.
310202-A F 6:00-7:00P Dec 13 RC $15/18
310202-B F 7:30-8:30P Dec 13 RC $15/18
Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
Weekends, December 13 - 15 & 20 - 22
7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinee on Sundays O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall), East Entrance
On a cold Christmas Eve, Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and bitter old man, hunches over his work, despising the holiday spirit. That night, however, his life takes a dramatic turn. The ghost of his deceased business partner, Jacob Marley, appears, bound by heavy chains forged from a lifetime of greed. Marley warns Scrooge of a similar fate unless he changes his ways.
Written by Charles Dickens and adapted by Larry D. Quiggins, Scrooge: A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale of redemption, reminding us of the importance of compassion, love, and the transformative power of the holiday spirit.
Dine & Discover:
Scrooge: A Christmas Carol
Join O’Fallon Theatre Works and O’Fallon Parks & Rec for a fun evening of dinner and a show on December 14! Before the curtain rises, enjoy a catered dinner at City Hall alongside other show goers before heading upstairs to see the production! Purchase tickets at: www.ofallonmo.gov/otw.
Nerf Warz • Ages 4-14
Friday, January 10
Are you ready to face the dinosaurs in a prehistoric battle? Join us for an epic Jurassic Park-themed Nerf war! Each player will be supplied with a pair of safety glasses and an armory of foam darts, but participants must bring their own Nerf Gun capable of shooting 7.2cm foam darts. No outside darts will be allowed. Pre-registration is required by Wednesday, January 1.
Session 1 • Ages 4-8
310109-E F 6:00-7:00P Jan 10 RC $16/18
Session 2 • Ages 9-14
310109-F F 7:15-8:15P Jan 10 RC $16/18
An Enchanted Evening • Ages 2-12
Friday, February 7
Grab your Golden Tickets and join us for a magical dance experience inspired by the whimsical world of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. Formerly called the ‘Daddy-Daughter Dance’ this inclusive event is a great way for parents & guardians to treat their children to a formal evening out! Get ready to step into a world of pure imagination, filled with colorful characters, catchy tunes, and plenty of fun! Formal dress is required. There are no sales at the door, and tickets will be available through January 3, or until the event is full. Cost includes one adult, one child; add $25/$28 for each additional child.
310109-G F 6:00-8:00P Feb 7 ODL $50/56
Twilight Twist • Ages 2-12
Saturday, February 8
Follow King Candy’s colorful trail all the way to O’Day Lodge for a night of sweet fun and dancing! Enjoy a fun Candy Land themed evening of music, dinner, dancing, and memories! semi-formal dress is required. There are no sales at the door, and tickets will be available through January 3, or until the event is full. Cost includes one adult, one child; add $25/$28 for each additional child.
310109-H Sa 6:00-8:00P Feb 8 ODL $50/56
True Crime Trivia Night
Friday, March 7
Are you ready to put your knowledge of the macabre to the test? All armchair detectives and cold case enthusiasts are invited to compete against other crime scene investigators at this for-fun night at O'Day Lodge.
$100 per team. 8 persons per team. Bring your own drinks and snacks. Doors open at 6 p.m.
310109-I F 6:00-9:00P Mar 7 ODL $100
Patriotic Events & Volunteer Opportunities
For more information or to register for an event, visit www. ofallonmo.gov/volunteer.
Pearl Harbor Day Ceremony
Saturday, December 7 | 1 p.m., O'Fallon Municipal Centre
Join the O’Fallon Veterans Commission in memory of the victims and survivors of the bombing of the U.S. Pacific Fleet at a special Pearl Harbor Day ceremony at the O'Fallon Municipal Centre. The ceremony begins at 1 p.m., and the entire community is invited to attend.
Cornucopia of Care Food Drive
Through December 13 | Multiple Drop-off Sites
With the holiday season upon us, there is no better time to share goodwill with those less fortunate in our community. Join Volunteer O’Fallon to help restock the shelves of area food pantries with nonperishable items such as cereal, oatmeal, pancake mix, peanut butter, instant potatoes, and rice. Donation collection sites can be found at: www.ofallonmo.gov/coc
Winter Blood Drive
Friday, January 10 | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., O’Fallon Municipal Centre Winter activities and hazards increase the need for blood donations, and volunteer donors like you can help as many as four people survive a life-threatening trauma or health condition. To donate blood at the Winter Blood Drive, schedule an appointment at www.ofallonmo.gov/volunteer.
MLK Day of Service
Monday, January 20 | 10 a.m. – noon, Krekel Civic Center
Build on Dr. King’s life and teachings with service projects that create a sense of community and shared responsibility. Join us as we work together to promote kindness by creating flowers and cards for residents living in senior care facilities. Pre-registration is required at www.ofallonmo.gov/volunteer.
Paws for a Cause
Saturday, March 1 | 9 a.m. – 11 a.m., Krekel Civic Center
Let's kickoff the month of March together at Paws for a Cause. If you have a love for animals, then join Volunteer O’Fallon as we give back to animal shelters in our area! We will be making toys and other enrichment items that benefit physical and mental health. Please note: This is a human only event. Pre-registration is required at: www.ofallonmo.gov/volunteer.
Roscoe’s Den
Trash, recycling, and yard waste announcements
Winter yard waste pick-up schedule
Weekly yard waste collection stops December 13 and resumes March 11, 2025. 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:
• Jan. 7–10 • Feb. 4–7
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.
8 a.m. – noon, parking lot southwest of CarShield Field
You can bring outdated or broken electronics and appliances to O’Fallon’s Electronics & Appliance Recycling Event from 8 a.m. to noon. The drop-off will be held in the parking lot at the southwest corner of T.R. Hughes Blvd. and Tom Ginnever Ave., adjacent to CarShield Field. For a detailed list of recycling fees, items that can be recycled, and future event dates, visit www. ofallonmo.gov/electronics
Bulk Waste Drop-Off
Saturday, December 14, 2024, February 15, and April 12, 2025 7 a.m. – 3 p.m., Environmental Services Transfer Station
During this event, O’Fallon trash customers can drop off certain items that are too large to fit in trash containers at the City’s waste transfer station. The transfer station is located at 1572 Progress West Lane. Visit www.ofallonmo.gov/bulk-waste for a list of rules and acceptable items.
Helpful trash and recycling service reminders
• Drivers can only service City-provided carts. Personal carts or containers will not be serviced for trash or recycling.
• Drivers will only service one cart per residence unless the resident is paying for extra service.
• Drivers will not service carts that have been reloaded after the cart has already been serviced on your pick-up day.
• All waste must be inside of your cart with the lid closed. Nothing outside of the cart can be collected.
• Only trash carts with gray lids will be serviced on trash day. Recycling carts with blue lids may not be used for trash.
Winter trash and recycling holiday schedule
For the full schedule visit: www.ofallonmo.gov/holiday-schedule
• Thanksgiving, Thursday & Friday, November 28-29 Service moves to the following day, through Saturday.
• Christmas Eve, Tuesday, December 24
No change in service
• Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25 Service moves to the following day.
• New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1
Service moves to the following day.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Monday, January 20
No change in service. There is no service on Mondays.
• Presidents Day, Monday, February 17
No change in service. There is no service on Mondays.
After the holidays, recycle your evergreen tree Free drop-off options
O’Fallon residents can drop off live Christmas trees, free, between December 26 and January 21 at parking lots in Ozzie Smith Sports Complex (890 T.R. Hughes Blvd.) and Sports Park (3589 Highway K).
The parks will be open dawn to dusk. Only live evergreen trees without decorations can be dropped off, so please remove all ornaments, tinsel, lights, string, and wire. No artificial trees, wreaths, shrubs, plastic bags, or yard waste is allowed.
Curbside Christmas tree pick-up option
For a fee of $10 per tree, O’Fallon trash customers can have their live holiday trees picked up at the curb. Schedule your pick-up by calling 636-272-0477. The cost will be added to your next bill. Trees will be scheduled for pick up on Thursdays, starting December 26 through January 16. Only live evergreen trees will be picked up, and all decorations must be removed before setting the tree at the curb. Please do not place trees in plastic bags.
Recycle unwanted light strands
Recycle light strands free of charge through January 21. Simply remove the lights from the trees and drop them off at the Renaud Center or the O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall) lobby area. 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.
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 top things 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. Additionally, when clearing your driveway we ask that you do not push snow into the street. Following these guidelines will help get residents back on the road in no time. Please remember to always stay clear of plows.
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 (8) or more inches of snow and has begun to accumulate, or excessive ice has been forecasted or arrived. At that time, you can call 636-379-3826 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. for weather concerns or questions. If outside of those hours or if less than 8-inches, please call the same number; however, the matter will most likely be reviewed the next available day. Please note that the purpose of the winter control program is to provide safe access, not 100% clear pavement.
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 Rd., Feise Rd., Bryan Rd., and Winghaven Blvd. Snow removal crews 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, P, 79, DD, South 364 Outer Rd., Technology Dr., East and West Terra Lanes, Drennan Pkwy., and sections of Veterans Memorial Pkwy. The City of O’Fallon cannot clear these areas. If you have questions or concerns about these roads, contact MoDOT at 1-888-ASK-MoDOT (1888-275-6636).
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 to allow access to driveways without clearing the whole cul-de-sac.
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. Due to less traffic volume, complete clearing of cul-de-sacs is near the lowest on the priority list, but will be completed. This allows crews to focus on clearing O’Fallon’s streets as quickly and efficiently as possible and avoids inadvertently creating large snow windrows in cul-desacs.
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 636-379-3807 for staff to review and repair/replace if responsible, or visit www. ofallonmo.gov/citizens-first. Landscape replacement is not fully guaranteed; however, staff will work with you to help 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. The prohibition stays in place until the street has become substantially clear from curb-to-curb for the entire block or by announcement from the Mayor or City Administrator.
For more information on O’Fallon’s winter weather control program, please contact the Streets Division by calling 636379-3807 or emailing snow@ofallonmo.gov before or after the weather event. Or visit www.ofallonmo.gov/snow to learn more.
Have a question or concern for City of O’Fallon staff? If so, visit the Citizens First Center at www.ofallonmo.gov
Police Bulletins
Community outreach through Coffee with a Cop events!
The O'Fallon Police Department has been hosting Coffee with a Cop events at gas stations throughout O'Fallon, making it convenient for residents to participate. Residents can stop by for a free coffee and other goodies, and have an open dialogue to voice concerns, ask questions, and build relationships with the individuals who protect their neighborhoods. By hosting these events, the O'Fallon Police Department aims to break down barriers, promote understanding, and create a safer, more connected community.
Join us in supporting the Fort Zumwalt West Canned Food Drive at Winter Wonderland!
Saturday, December 14
9 a.m. to noon, Fort Zumwalt West High School
Join us for a festive morning of giving back to our community! Enjoy hot cocoa, Fort Zumwalt musicians, vehicle displays, breakfast with Officer Claus, and get a photo with Santa! Bring your canned food donations to the Fort Zumwalt West High School for discounted admission. All donations benefit families who access the Fort Zumwalt School District Resource Center, providing weekend food bags and other necessities. Tickets are $8-$12 per person, based on number of items donated, and children under 3 years old are free.
Night (Watch) Lights & Festive Fridays!
We're excited to announce the return of our annual holiday lights program! During the month of December, night shift officers will keep an eye out for holiday decorations that really stand out while patrolling. Each week, officers will nominate their favorite decorated houses, and the winner will be presented with a prize, and their decorations will be featured on our social media on Fridays.
Cocoa with a Cop
Saturday, December 7
9 a.m. – 11 a.m., McDonald's, 101 McDonald Ln.
Sip on delicious hot cocoa while having casual conversations with police officers at a local restaurant. Meet Officer Claus and get pictures with Santa in a blue suit! This is a great chance to get to know the officers who work to keep our great community safe.
Support Team O’Fallon for the Polar Plunge
Saturday, February 1
10 a.m. (plunge at noon), 100 Cognac Court, Lake Saint Louis
During the annual Polar Plunge fundraiser, costume-wearing teams plunge bravely, if briefly, into the frigid waters of Lake Ste. Louise while onlookers cheer them on. Proceeds from the Plunge benefit Special Olympics Missouri’s year-round program of sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. For more information, including how to support O’Fallon’s team, visit www.somo.org.
Register for the Citizens Police Academy
Residents who are age 18+ are invited to apply for the O’Fallon Citizens Police Academy. The six-week program offers hands-on training and a chance to ride along on patrol, plus discussions of police investigations, less-lethal weapon use, drug awareness, K9 demonstrations, departmental drone usage, and more.
Applications will be available after January 1 at www.ofallonmo.gov/citizens-police-academy, or they can be picked up at the O’Fallon Justice Center.
City of O’fallon Veterans Commission receives recognition from Department of Defense
The O'Fallon Veterans Commission is raising the bar for veteran recognition, earning a prestigious national honor for their commitment to O'Fallon and St. Charles County veterans. This commission earned recognition as a Top Performer by The United States Vietnam War Commemoration of the Department of Defense. This distinction places them among the top 15% of over 13,000 commemorative partner organizations nationwide.
Their impact goes far beyond this singular accomplishment. From remembrance ceremonies, to the Path of Heroes program, and the thoughtful curation of the City's various memorials, their dedication to veterans can be felt throughout our community.
This 11-member citizen force, bolstered by a dedicated City Council liaison, works tirelessly to ensure O'Fallon's veterans are never forgotten. To learn more about the extraordinary work of the O'Fallon Veterans Commission and how you can get involved, visit: www.ofallonmo.gov/veteranscommission.
Historic Preservation Committee seeking information on Veterans in O'Fallon Cemeteries
The O'Fallon Historic Preservation Comittee is documenting veterans laid to rest in O’Fallon’s cemeteries as requested by the state of Missouri. If you have family members who were veterans and are buried in a cemetery in O’Fallon, your assistance is needed by providing their name, date of birth/death, years in service, and branch of service.
If you are able to provide this information, please contact the Historic Preservation Commission at historicpreservation@ofallonmo.gov.
Veterans Report
O’Fallon Veterans Assistance Office
Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (except holidays) 636-379-5577 or veteransaffairs@ofallonmo.gov
1st floor, O’Fallon Municipal Centre (City Hall)
The Veterans Assistance Office is staffed by veterans who are dedicated to helping all U.S. military veterans and their families regarding eligibility or entitlement to VA benefits.
Veterans Service Officer Available
Missouri AMVETS Representative Veterans Service Officer, William "Sif" Sifford will be available by appointment only, in the O'Fallon Veterans Office at City Hall. The Veterans Service Officer is a liaison between veterans and their families in obtaining benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans Service Officers assist veterans in filing serviceconnected disability claims with the VA. Here are a few things the Veterans Service Officer can assist with:
• Act as your official representative to the VA
• Assist in ensuring all evidence necessary for a successful claim is submitted in a timely manner
• VA Disability Compensation
The Veterans Service Officer will help distinguish which injuries are eligible for compensation, and file paperwork.
• Veteran's Pension
The Veterans Service Officer can assist you in filing for a Veteran's pension. They can also help you understand the evidence necessary and the application.
• Survivor's Benefits
Surviving spouses may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). The Veterans Service Officer can help you understand the requirements and submit the application.
• Burial Benefits
The VA will pay benefits toward burial expenses; however, the amounts may vary. The Veterans Service Officer can find that information for the survivor. Additionally, they can help with filing for a U.S. Flag, Presidential Memorial Certificate, standard government headstone or marker, or a Government Medallion.
• Understand VA Correspondence
• Provide Guidance in other VA benefits
• Current VA Regulations
Tips for your DD-214
Your DD-214, Discharge Papers and Separation Documents, is the most important military document you will ever receive. This form serves as your proof of military service and is often used to verify military service for benefits such as the GI Bill, VA Loans, VA medical benefits, retirement benefits, burial benefits, employment and membership in veteran’s organizations. The O’Fallon Veterans Assistance
Public Assistance
O’Fallon’s grants and assistance programs can help eligible
residents with home maintenance
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 and grants for home maintenance. All programs are subject to funding availability.
Check your eligibility and learn more about available programs at www.ofallonmo.gov/grants.
Mobile Home Repair Program
O'Fallon's Mobile Home Repair Program assists low-tomoderate level income O'Fallon residents with mobile home repairs that they would not otherwise be able to afford. This program offers up to $3,000 in the form of a one-time grant for eligible repairs.
O'Fallon's Transportation Program
O’Fallon’s Transportation Program provides transportation for necessary medical appointments, shopping, and essential services and is available to O’Fallon residents who meet one of the following criteria:
• At least 62 years of age; or
• Be deemed disabled per HUD Section 504 regulations; or
• Qualify as low income or moderate income.
Help a local charity when you pay O’Fallon utility bills
Residents can easily assist local charities by donating $1, $3, or $5 per billing cycle when they pay their City water, sewer, and/or trash collection bills. Each year, the O’Fallon City Council designates a charity to receive the funds, and for 2025 your voluntary donation can help Meals on Wheels. The nonprofit depends on voluntary donations for the hot, nutritious food delivered to homebound seniors who can’t easily make a meal.
To register for the donation program, please call 636-3795566 or email kpieper@ofallonmo.gov
The City of O’Fallon FACILITIES & Attractions
O'Fallon Municipal Centre
100 North Main St., O'Fallon, MO
The O'Fallon Municipal Centre is the home of many departments that keep integral city services operational.
• City Council Chambers
• Veterans Assistance Office
• Multi-Purpose Room
• Community Room
• Cultural Arts Gallery
• O'Fallon Theatre Works Stage
• Utility Billing
• Building & Permits
O'Fallon Justice Center
1019 Bryan Rd., O'Fallon, MO
The Justice Center is the home of the O'Fallon Police Department, and Municipal Court for the cities of O'Fallon, Weldon Spring, and Lake Saint Louis.
3,300-square-foot event space available for full and half-day reservations!
O'Day Lodge
1100 O'Day Park Dr., O'Fallon, MO
Over 4,000-square-foot venue has seating for up to 250 guests, and can host weddings and receptions, conferences and meetings, and private parties and events.
Veterans Memorial Walk
800 Belleau Creek Rd., O'Fallon, MO
Dedicated in 2001, the Veterans Memorial Walk is a place to honor all U.S. soldiers, past and present.
CarShield Field
900 TR Hughes Blvd., O'Fallon, MO
CarShield Field is the home of The O'Fallon Hoots! This baseball field is located in Ozzie Smith Sports Complex, and is a modern baseball stadium with ample seating and concessions, private tent suites, and many other amenities.
