Thursday, November 30, 2017
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Springfield man sentenced to 40 years without parole for sexual exploitation of underage girl
A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for enticing a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity and producing child pornography.
Michael William Brooks, Sr., 45, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to 40 years in federal prison without parole.
On March 15, 2017, Brooks pleaded guilty to one count of enticing a minor for the purpose of producing child pornography and one count of enticing a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity.
Law enforcement officers were notified of an emergency hotline call in December 2015 that reported Brooks was sexually abusing a 15-year-old victim, identified in court documents as “Jane Doe.” Investigators examined Brooks’s phone in January 2016 and found multiple pornographic images of Jane Doe. More than 200 text messages between Brooks and Jane Doe also were located, in which Brooks discussed having sexual intercourse with Jane Doe.
Brooks admitted that he had sexual intercourse with Jane Doe beginning in August 2015. Brooks also admitted he took the sexually explicit pictures of Jane Doe using his cell phone.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by the FBI, the Lawrence County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Springfield man who led police on 3-county, 125 mile per hour chase sentenced to seven years on weapons charge
A Springfield man who led officers on a high-speed pursuit on a stolen motorcycle at speeds up to 125 miles per hour across three counties was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm.
Matthew Levi Woodward, 39, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips to seven years and two months in federal prison without parole.
On Sept. 6, 2017, Woodward pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Woodward admitted that he was in possession of a Heritage Rough Ride .22-caliber magnum revolver with an obliterated serial number when he was arrested on Dec. 1, 2016.
A Billings, Mo., police officer observed Woodward traveling 72 miles per hour in a 45-miles-per-hour zone at approximately 12:28 a.m. on Dec. 1, 2016. The officer attempted to stop the motorcycle, but Woodward increased his speed and began driving erratically in an attempt to elude the officer. The motorcycle was traveling at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. As the motorcycle entered a different jurisdiction, additional law enforcement officers joined in the pursuit. As the motorcycle traveled through Lawrence County, Mo., Woodward operated the motorcycle at speeds between 114 and 125 miles per hour. Law enforcement officers also observed the motorcycle drive into opposite lanes of traffic and make several dangerous passes while eluding officers.
Lawrence County deputies discontinued their pursuit at the Barry County, Mo., line, where Barry County deputies picked up the pursuit. A sheriff’s deputy observed the motorcycle attempt to elude him and travel at speeds between 110 and 115 miles per hour. The sheriff’s deputy pursued the motorcycle into Newton County and as they approached the Granby, Mo., city limits, the motorcycle appeared to have engine problems.
When the motorcycle came to a stop, Woodward was arrested. He was carrying the firearm in a holster on his left hip. The motorcycle had been reported as stolen a few days earlier in Republic, Mo.
According to court documents, Woodward’s high-speed pursuit and his illegal possession of a firearm on Dec. 1, 2016, occurred approximately three weeks after his illegal possession of another firearm in Greene County, Mo. In that incident, Greene County sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a report of a suspicious vehicle that was parked on private property. Deputies contacted the property owner and were told that the owner had no knowledge regarding the vehicle, but since it was on his property, law enforcement had his permission to check the vehicle. Woodward was inside the truck; because he had difficult standing and speaking and did not know his name, he was transported by ambulance. Woodward had been released on state parole six weeks earlier.
Deputies searched the truck and found a Smith and Wesson .38-caliber revolver, a box of ammunition, a baggie of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and burglary tools in the truck. Deputies learned that the VIN for the truck did not match the license plate that appeared on the vehicle that had been reported stolen with the Springfield, Mo., Police Department.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Woodward has repeated convictions for theft, criminal damage to property, numerous narcotics offenses, resisting arrest, domestic assault, burglary, tampering with a vehicle and driving while intoxicated. Between the ages of 18 and 38, Woodward has been convicted 13 different times for 17 different felony and misdemeanor offenses. Woodward’s prior probations or paroles have been revoked on approximately 12 occasions due to new criminal offenses.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Billings, Mo., Police Department, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the Barry County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
First degree murder suspect escapes, is captured in Mount Vernon
An inmate who was being transported from the Lawrence County Jail to the Vernon County Jail had a brief moment of freedom.
Inmate Mike Jones, pictured above, who has been charged with 1st Degree Murder was being housed at the Vernon County Jail due to overcrowding issues at the Lawrence County Jail. Jones was transported to Lawrence County for a court appearance today, Monday November 27.
After his court appearance, Jones was awaiting transport back to Vernon County. Jones along with other inmates were being placed into the Vernon County transport van outside the Lawrence County Jail. While the Vernon County Deputy was securing the other inmates, Jones, who was belly chained, took advantage of the Deputy's divided attention and fled the scene.
The deputy gave a short chase and lost sight of Jones. The Vernon County deputy then returned to the Lawrence County Jail to report the escape. Immediately, area law enforcement was notified of the escape and assistance was requested.
Law Enforcement from Lawrence County including the Lawrence County Auxiliary, Mt. Vernon PD, Verona PD, MSHP, Missouri Department of Conservation, Dade County SO, Jasper County SO, Greene County SO, Christian County SO, Webster County SO, Stone County SO, Joplin PD, Wheaton PD, Miller PD, Monett PD and Aurora/Marionville PD assisted by providing manpower, aerial drones, K-9 units, aircraft and thermal cameras.
A search of the immediate area was conducted and a short time later a Lawrence County Deputy who was walking alleyways located the suspect in a brush pile behind a burned out residence near the intersection of Cherry and McCanse in Mt. Vernon.
The deputy announced he had located the suspect and requested assistance. Several citizens who were also on the look out for Jones heard the deputies request for assistance and responded on foot to help.
Jones was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Lawrence County Jail where he was transferred back to Vernon County.
Greene County Sheriff's Office arrest results in confiscation of 17 grams of methamphetamine
Deputy Connell made an arrest last night and was able to remove 17.87 grams of methamphetamine from the streets. A street value of over $1,780.00.
Branson PD arrests Springfield, Buffalo residents after attempted armed robbery, carjacking
The Branson Police Department has released the names of two suspects taken into custody late Saturday night in a failed attempted robbery and carjacking.
Arrested in the victim’s car was Raymond Johnson Tatum (23) of Buffalo, Missouri. Minutes later the suspect who fled the scene and was captured and identified as Joshua Taylor Acord (25) of Springfield, Missouri. Both men have been charged with Robbery – 1st degree, Armed Criminal Action, and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. They are being held in the Taney County Jail on a $100,000 bond.
Late Saturday night Branson Police received an initial call from a citizen reporting a subject trying to get into the passenger side of her vehicle.
Late Saturday night Branson Police received an initial call from a citizen reporting a subject trying to get into the passenger side of her vehicle.
“As our police officer arrived in the area they actually rolled up on a carjacking in progress,” stated Assistant Police Chief Eric Schmitt. The victim, an 18 year old female from Harrison, Arkansas, stated she was driving on Main Street when the suspects stepped in the driving lane in front of her vehicle. They pointed a handgun at her and demanded her vehicle. She was allowed to exit the vehicle, and the suspects both entered the vehicle. “A brave Samaritan pulled up behind and attempted to render assistance to the victim. He also fell victim as the handgun was pointed at him and the suspects then demanded his vehicle,” stated Schmitt. Officers arrived on scene and one suspect fled the scene while the other was taken into custody.
Officers from the Branson Police Department, Taney County Sheriff’s Office, and Missouri State Highway Patrol flooded the area with all available police units in efforts to find the armed suspect who had fled into a residential area. “Our police K-9 ‘Tygo’ was deployed and tracked the suspect to the rear of a home where he was found hiding under a deck,” stated Schmitt. The handguns were located and determined to be BB guns which were replicas of real handguns. No one was injured in the incident.
Officers from the Branson Police Department, Taney County Sheriff’s Office, and Missouri State Highway Patrol flooded the area with all available police units in efforts to find the armed suspect who had fled into a residential area. “Our police K-9 ‘Tygo’ was deployed and tracked the suspect to the rear of a home where he was found hiding under a deck,” stated Schmitt. The handguns were located and determined to be BB guns which were replicas of real handguns. No one was injured in the incident.
Autopsy planned for 22-year-old Branson resident found dead in bluffs near Highway 65
(From the Branson Police Department)
Taney County Coroner Kevin Tweedy has made positive identification of a body found in Branson this past Sunday.
Taney County Coroner Kevin Tweedy has made positive identification of a body found in Branson this past Sunday.
Branson patrol officers responded to a bluff area north of Main Street at Highway 65 after two hikers in the area discovered a body. Patrol officers located a deceased person who had been at that location for an extended time period.
Due to the length of time the body had been exposed to the elements, it was difficult to confirm positive identification. The coroner used dental records to confirm the identity as 22-year-old Tommy Zeigler.
The responding officers suspected the body may have been Mr. Zeigler who had been reported as a missing or endangered person since September 22.
The responding officers suspected the body may have been Mr. Zeigler who had been reported as a missing or endangered person since September 22.
The police department dedicated over 500 hours of investigation into this incident including several days dedicated to searching areas based on tips provided by the public.
“Our patrol officers and detectives worked diligently to find Mr. Zeigler and we express our condolences to his family for their loss,” stated Police Chief Stan Dobbins. “All our officers truly care about our residents and when our community experiences a loss like this, it hurts,” added Dobbins.
The police department continues to investigate this incident though there was no evidence on the scene to indicate any foul play.
“Our patrol officers and detectives worked diligently to find Mr. Zeigler and we express our condolences to his family for their loss,” stated Police Chief Stan Dobbins. “All our officers truly care about our residents and when our community experiences a loss like this, it hurts,” added Dobbins.
The police department continues to investigate this incident though there was no evidence on the scene to indicate any foul play.
Investigators from the police department are awaiting a cause of death to be determined by the Taney County Coroner. An autopsy is scheduled for later this week and test results may take several months to be returned to the Coroner and Detectives.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Springfield conducting sidewalk assessment and inventory
(From the City of Springfield)
The City of Springfield is conducting a city-wide sidewalk assessment and inventory beginning Wednesday, Nov. 29.
The assessment, conducted by Tempe, Arizona-based firm, IMS Infrastructure Management Services LLC, will use a specialized sidewalk surface tester – which looks similar to an all-terrain vehicle – to collect a detailed inventory and condition rating of all sidewalks within the City’s right-of-way.
The tester will be operated by an IMS field technician and will travel at low speeds along the sidewalk. It may occasionally stop to take photographs or record additional data. The testers are clearly marked “Sidewalk Survey” and will collect data during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. The assessment is scheduled to be complete in March 2018.
The City of Springfield manages approximately 700 miles of sidewalk and 10,000 curb ramps. All must be ADA compliant per the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991 which requires the City to retain an updated Public Rights of Way ADA Transition Plan. Data from this sidewalk assessment will be used to update Springfield’s Transition Plan with priorities, costs and timelines to address non-compliant infrastructure.
The cost of the assessment is approximately $139,000 and will be funded through the ¼-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax and the 1/8-cent Transportation Sales Tax.
The City of Springfield is conducting a city-wide sidewalk assessment and inventory beginning Wednesday, Nov. 29.
The assessment, conducted by Tempe, Arizona-based firm, IMS Infrastructure Management Services LLC, will use a specialized sidewalk surface tester – which looks similar to an all-terrain vehicle – to collect a detailed inventory and condition rating of all sidewalks within the City’s right-of-way.
The tester will be operated by an IMS field technician and will travel at low speeds along the sidewalk. It may occasionally stop to take photographs or record additional data. The testers are clearly marked “Sidewalk Survey” and will collect data during normal business hours, Monday through Friday. The assessment is scheduled to be complete in March 2018.
The City of Springfield manages approximately 700 miles of sidewalk and 10,000 curb ramps. All must be ADA compliant per the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1991 which requires the City to retain an updated Public Rights of Way ADA Transition Plan. Data from this sidewalk assessment will be used to update Springfield’s Transition Plan with priorities, costs and timelines to address non-compliant infrastructure.
The cost of the assessment is approximately $139,000 and will be funded through the ¼-cent Capital Improvement Sales Tax and the 1/8-cent Transportation Sales Tax.
Opening of Business 60 bridge near Monett may be delayed into 2018
(From MODOT)
Construction Delays May Push Opening of
Business 60 Bridge Near Monett into 2018
Lawrence County – Progress continues on a project to replace the Business 60 railroad bridge east of Monett but construction delays may push the opening of the new bridge into 2018, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.
The original date for completion of the bridge and the reopening of Business Route 60 is December 29. The contractor and MoDOT are working diligently to make that deadline, but construction delays may cause the completion date to move to January 2018.
Winter weather could further delay work. If this occurs, the bridge opening will be delayed until spring 2018. MoDOT will continue to keep the community informed of the bridge progress, with every effort being made to keep the project on track.
Business 60 was closed in mid-July 2017 to allow contractor crews to replace the deteriorating bridge over the railroad tracks.
Hartman Construction of Springfield is the prime contractor on the project. The total estimated project cost is $3.7 million.
Construction Delays May Push Opening of
Business 60 Bridge Near Monett into 2018
Lawrence County – Progress continues on a project to replace the Business 60 railroad bridge east of Monett but construction delays may push the opening of the new bridge into 2018, the Missouri Department of Transportation said.
The original date for completion of the bridge and the reopening of Business Route 60 is December 29. The contractor and MoDOT are working diligently to make that deadline, but construction delays may cause the completion date to move to January 2018.
Winter weather could further delay work. If this occurs, the bridge opening will be delayed until spring 2018. MoDOT will continue to keep the community informed of the bridge progress, with every effort being made to keep the project on track.
Business 60 was closed in mid-July 2017 to allow contractor crews to replace the deteriorating bridge over the railroad tracks.
Hartman Construction of Springfield is the prime contractor on the project. The total estimated project cost is $3.7 million.
Reward offered for information leading to arrest of hit-and-run driver who killed Springfield woman
The Crime Stoppers Special Feature of the Week is one that was featured previously. Updated information is now available and the crash is considered a fatality incident.
This leaving the scene crash (LSOA) occurred on July 23, 2017 around 2300 hours in the 2200 block of N Golden in Springfield. An adult female victim walking with her child was struck by an unknown vehicle and suffered serious injuries. Though every effort was made, the victim has since died from her injuries. The suspect vehicle would have had damage to the front passenger side mirror and headlight.
Detectives have asked that Crime Stoppers put out the updated information in the hope that someone comes forward about the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident. We’re hopeful we can help bring this family some closure during the holiday season.
If you have any information about this crash, please contact Crime Stoppers at 417-869-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at www.p3tips.com.
Watch Springfield City Council discussion on repeal of pit bull ordinance live
Springfield City Council members are scheduled to discuss a possible repeal of the city's pit bull ordinance, as well as other animal control issues when they meet at noon today. You can watch the event live on this post.
Springfield City Council to discuss animal control issues today
(From the City of Springfield)
Springfield City Council will discuss a broader view of animal control issues at today's Council Lunch Workshop at noon in the Busch Municipal Building 4th Floor Conference Room.
Springfield City Council will discuss a broader view of animal control issues at today's Council Lunch Workshop at noon in the Busch Municipal Building 4th Floor Conference Room.
Mayor Ken McClure and Councilman Craig Hosmer have requested additional information from the Springfield-Greene County Health Department, which runs animal control services. The Mayor said the purpose of the meeting, in which no public comment will be taken, is to further discuss the issues and allow Council members to ask any questions they may still have.
City Council faces a decision at the next formal meeting, scheduled for Dec. 11, of whether or not to repeal an ordinance passed Oct. 2 establishing a future ban upon the possession of new pit bull dogs within the City limits. The future ban is halted due to a sufficient number of signatures collected via the referendum petition process. The results of a sufficient petition require that Council must either repeal the ban or send the issue to a vote of the people.
Although no public comment will be taken, today's Council Lunch Workshop is an open meeting. Individuals may attend in person or view the meeting live on the City's cable access channel: Mediacom 15.1 and AT&T U-Verse (consult the channel guide). The meeting will also be live streamed on springfieldmo.gov and Facebook Live: CityofSGF.
Although no public comment will be taken, today's Council Lunch Workshop is an open meeting. Individuals may attend in person or view the meeting live on the City's cable access channel: Mediacom 15.1 and AT&T U-Verse (consult the channel guide). The meeting will also be live streamed on springfieldmo.gov and Facebook Live: CityofSGF.
Springfield Fire Department adds new Hazmat truck
Springfield's newest fire apparatus, Hazmat 12, will officially be put into service November 29th following a traditional ceremony dating back to the late 1800's.
A longstanding tradition in the fire service, the “wet-down”, is a ceremonial process in which firefighters officially place into service a new fire apparatus by anointing it with water sprayed from the retiring unit. This ritual dates back to the late 1800’s when horse drawn pumpers were used throughout the nations fire service. After being called to duty and extinguishing the flames, firefighters would return to the station tired and with a dirty fire engine. The community that lived in the neighborhood around the station would come out and help wash the engine and the horses. They would then help push the engine back into the station. It was about more than just cleaning the equipment, it was about community pride and ownership of their fire station.
Today, many fire departments celebrate this tradition, although slightly modified. After being wet down and dried, community leaders and members symbolically “push” the apparatus back into the station, with the help of the apparatus slowly rolling backwards into the station under power.
Hazmat 12 will be put into service with a similar "wet-down" ceremony on Wednesday, November 29th at 2pm at Fire Station 12 located at 2455 S. Blackman Rd. Members of the media, surrounding neighborhoods and interested members of the community are welcome to attend.
A longstanding tradition in the fire service, the “wet-down”, is a ceremonial process in which firefighters officially place into service a new fire apparatus by anointing it with water sprayed from the retiring unit. This ritual dates back to the late 1800’s when horse drawn pumpers were used throughout the nations fire service. After being called to duty and extinguishing the flames, firefighters would return to the station tired and with a dirty fire engine. The community that lived in the neighborhood around the station would come out and help wash the engine and the horses. They would then help push the engine back into the station. It was about more than just cleaning the equipment, it was about community pride and ownership of their fire station.
Today, many fire departments celebrate this tradition, although slightly modified. After being wet down and dried, community leaders and members symbolically “push” the apparatus back into the station, with the help of the apparatus slowly rolling backwards into the station under power.
Hazmat 12 will be put into service with a similar "wet-down" ceremony on Wednesday, November 29th at 2pm at Fire Station 12 located at 2455 S. Blackman Rd. Members of the media, surrounding neighborhoods and interested members of the community are welcome to attend.
Monday, November 27, 2017
Lawrence County Sheriff's Office finds no seat belt violations during Click It or Ticket activity
(From Lawrence County Sheriff's Office)
The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office ticketed zero (0) motorists for not wearing seat belts during the November 22 Click It or Ticket mobilization. Law enforcement agencies throughout Missouri participated in this statewide effort to get more motorists to buckle up - and save more lives.
During the enforcement effort, deputies issued a total of four (4) traffic citations including: two (2) driving while suspended tickets; one (1) uninsured motorist ticket and one (1) other hazardous moving violation ticket. One felony arrest was made and 43 warnings for various other violations were issued as a result of the enforcement.
Despite evidence proving the benefits of wearing a seat belt, nearly one in five Missouri motorists are still not making it click. Even more concerning, six out of ten Missourians killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled.
"Seat belts are your single best defense in a crash," stated Sheriff Brad DeLay. "We will continue to encourage drivers to make a simple, smart choice to Buckle Up and Arrive Alive."
For more information on Missouri's seat belt use, visit www.SaveMOlives.com. Buckle Up and Arrive Alive.
The Lawrence County Sheriff's Office ticketed zero (0) motorists for not wearing seat belts during the November 22 Click It or Ticket mobilization. Law enforcement agencies throughout Missouri participated in this statewide effort to get more motorists to buckle up - and save more lives.
During the enforcement effort, deputies issued a total of four (4) traffic citations including: two (2) driving while suspended tickets; one (1) uninsured motorist ticket and one (1) other hazardous moving violation ticket. One felony arrest was made and 43 warnings for various other violations were issued as a result of the enforcement.
Despite evidence proving the benefits of wearing a seat belt, nearly one in five Missouri motorists are still not making it click. Even more concerning, six out of ten Missourians killed in traffic crashes are unbuckled.
"Seat belts are your single best defense in a crash," stated Sheriff Brad DeLay. "We will continue to encourage drivers to make a simple, smart choice to Buckle Up and Arrive Alive."
For more information on Missouri's seat belt use, visit www.SaveMOlives.com. Buckle Up and Arrive Alive.
Sunday, November 26, 2017
Fort Smith man killed in accident on 165
A Fort Smith, Arkansas man was killed in a one-vehicle accident 1:50 a.m. today on Highway 165, six miles southwest of Hollister.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Nissan Armada driven by Brian S. Salsman, 53, Fort Smith, ran off the roadway and overturned into a tree. Deputy Taney County Coroner Bryan Coppitz pronounced Salsman dead at the scene at 2:55 a.m.
The fatality was the 100th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2006 Nissan Armada driven by Brian S. Salsman, 53, Fort Smith, ran off the roadway and overturned into a tree. Deputy Taney County Coroner Bryan Coppitz pronounced Salsman dead at the scene at 2:55 a.m.
The fatality was the 100th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.
Friday, November 24, 2017
U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Springfield
Christian County
Robert Aubrey McCormick and Jackie Carlene Pierson-McCormick
Douglas County
Marty Dean Metcalf and LuAnn Mae Metcalf
Greene County
Louis Charles Gonzales and Susan Lynn Gonzales
Wendy Eilene Eutsler
Howell County
Candice Marie Ellett
George Stewart Walters
Laclede County
Albert Paul Biggs
Lawrence County
Gregory Gene Dawson
Polk County
Curtis Dale Goss and Margaret Marian Goss
Stone County
Ken Eugene Farr
Michelle Louise Ballard
Taney County
Linda Faye Davis
Webster County
Tracey Baker Williams
Robert Aubrey McCormick and Jackie Carlene Pierson-McCormick
Douglas County
Marty Dean Metcalf and LuAnn Mae Metcalf
Greene County
Louis Charles Gonzales and Susan Lynn Gonzales
Wendy Eilene Eutsler
Howell County
Candice Marie Ellett
George Stewart Walters
Laclede County
Albert Paul Biggs
Lawrence County
Gregory Gene Dawson
Polk County
Curtis Dale Goss and Margaret Marian Goss
Stone County
Ken Eugene Farr
Michelle Louise Ballard
Taney County
Linda Faye Davis
Webster County
Tracey Baker Williams
Marshfield man killed in head-on collision with Freightliner on I-44
A Marshfield man was killed in a two-vehicle crash 2:08 a.m. today on eastbound I-44 at the 88.4 mile marker at Strafford.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2013 Chevrolet Impala driven by Lynden A. Verser, 33, Marshfield, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of traffic and struck a 2009 Freightliner driven by Mohamed J. Yusuf, 31, Aurora, Colorado.
Greene County Coroner Michelle Waters pronounced Verser dead at the scene.
Yusuf was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2013 Chevrolet Impala driven by Lynden A. Verser, 33, Marshfield, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of traffic and struck a 2009 Freightliner driven by Mohamed J. Yusuf, 31, Aurora, Colorado.
Greene County Coroner Michelle Waters pronounced Verser dead at the scene.
Yusuf was treated for minor injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.
Thursday, November 23, 2017
Springfield woman, Tennessee man killed in head-on crash on 60
A Springfield woman and a Tennessee man were killed in a two-vehicle head-on accident 11:27 p.m. Wednesday on U. S. 60 in Fordland.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 GMC Envoy driven by John P. Guertin, 58, Madison, Tennessee, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of U. S. 60 and struck a 2001 GMC pickup driven by Emylee L. Anglin, 20, Springfield head on.
Anglin was pronounced dead at the scene by Webster County Coroner Michael Taylor at 12:40 a.m. Guertin was pronounced dead five minutes later.
The fatalities were the 98th and 99th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 GMC Envoy driven by John P. Guertin, 58, Madison, Tennessee, was traveling westbound in the eastbound lane of U. S. 60 and struck a 2001 GMC pickup driven by Emylee L. Anglin, 20, Springfield head on.
Anglin was pronounced dead at the scene by Webster County Coroner Michael Taylor at 12:40 a.m. Guertin was pronounced dead five minutes later.
The fatalities were the 98th and 99th this year for Highway Patrol Troop D.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting
Springfield City Council Lunch
Tuesday, November 28, 2017 12:00 pm
Busch Building - 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Follow-Up from the City Council Meeting of November 27, 2017
2. Animal Control Options – Clay Goddard
3. Any and all matters to come before City Council
Tuesday, November 28, 2017 12:00 pm
Busch Building - 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Follow-Up from the City Council Meeting of November 27, 2017
2. Animal Control Options – Clay Goddard
3. Any and all matters to come before City Council
City of Springfield sales tax collections down
(From the City of Springfield)
The City of Springfield’s November sales tax check from the Missouri Department of Revenue is down 7%, or $187,341, compared to the amount budgeted. The sales tax check was $2,650,264 compared to the budgeted amount of $2,837,605.
The check reflects sales processed by the state in October from transactions made primarily in September. On a year to date basis, with November being the fifth month in the 2017-2018 fiscal year, revenues are down 2% compared to budget.
Compared to last November, monthly revenues are down 4%, or about $118,000.
“The City continues to experience significant delays in processing the City’s largest vendor payments (approximately one in five of our top fifty vendors did not have their final monthly payment processed and approximately 1 out of 3 of our top vendors were behind in processing at least one month,” said Finance Director David Holtmann.
The November check is the third below-budget check the City has processed since June, after the City started the new fiscal year off with a rebound. September’s check was down 7% compared to the budgeted amount due to a delay in the processing of several of the City’s largest vendors’ sales tax collections. October’s check was down 9%.
The City heavily relies on sales tax revenues as its main source of revenue to fund vital services, such as police and fire operations. In Springfield, approximately 56% of revenue in the General Fund comes from sales tax and use tax.
The City of Springfield’s November sales tax check from the Missouri Department of Revenue is down 7%, or $187,341, compared to the amount budgeted. The sales tax check was $2,650,264 compared to the budgeted amount of $2,837,605.
The check reflects sales processed by the state in October from transactions made primarily in September. On a year to date basis, with November being the fifth month in the 2017-2018 fiscal year, revenues are down 2% compared to budget.
Compared to last November, monthly revenues are down 4%, or about $118,000.
“The City continues to experience significant delays in processing the City’s largest vendor payments (approximately one in five of our top fifty vendors did not have their final monthly payment processed and approximately 1 out of 3 of our top vendors were behind in processing at least one month,” said Finance Director David Holtmann.
The November check is the third below-budget check the City has processed since June, after the City started the new fiscal year off with a rebound. September’s check was down 7% compared to the budgeted amount due to a delay in the processing of several of the City’s largest vendors’ sales tax collections. October’s check was down 9%.
The City heavily relies on sales tax revenues as its main source of revenue to fund vital services, such as police and fire operations. In Springfield, approximately 56% of revenue in the General Fund comes from sales tax and use tax.
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
Wheaton Police: Do you know this theft suspect?
Wanted for stealing from Wheaton Family Market on Sunday afternoon. We are needing your help on identifying this lady.
She was a passenger in a this white Toyota Camry.
Thank you.
Springfield City Council hears results of street and intersection pedestrian safety study
(From the City of Springfield)
It is anticipated that an ordinance will be brought forward at the Nov. 27 City Council Meeting which proposes enhanced regulation informed by the safety report recommendations.
Over the past year, five pedestrians have been killed on Springfield streets. It’s a number that City staff and City Council would like to reduce to zero. At the request of City Council, the City of Springfield has concluded a study examining pedestrian safety on Springfield streets and intersections in particular, to better understand what can be done to address the issue.
“With the number of pedestrian-involved crashes and fatalities continuing to grow on Springfield streets over the past decade, the City is seeking ways to curb the trend,” said Public Works Traffic Engineer Eric Claussen. The start of the study came in conjunction with the 2017 launch of the SGF Yields campaign aimed to increase education and awareness of pedestrian safety.
As a complement to the SGF Yields program, the City contracted with St. Louis traffic engineering and transportation planning firm CBB to investigate pedestrian safety issues in the City and provide recommendations.
The report conclusively demonstrates that arterial roadways with higher speeds, higher traffic volumes and narrow medians present a heightened potential for dangers for both pedestrians and motorists.
CBB recommendations urge special care be given to regulating pedestrian access in streets and intersections with speeds of 35 mph or greater, traffic volumes greater than 15,000 vehicles per day or median widths less than 6 feet.
According to traffic safety industry guidelines, the minimum protected median width is 6 feet. This length is based on the length of a motorized wheelchair or person pushing a stroller and provides protection from such concerns as vehicle overhang, ADA access and pedestrian trips and falls.
To facilitate safety for pedestrians and motorists alike. CBB recommendations state that pedestrians should only be allowed in the roadway when:
- They remain in designated pedestrian areas where motorists reasonably expect them to be located (sidewalks and crosswalks)
- There is temporary traffic control set up to warn drivers that pedestrians will be present (maintenance or special events)
- Using particular roadways that sustain low traffic volumes and speeds and are designated as shared spaces for both motorists and pedestrians
- They use temporary pedestrian refuge as part of the process of crossing a road
It is anticipated that an ordinance will be brought forward at the Nov. 27 City Council Meeting which proposes enhanced regulation informed by the safety report recommendations.
Springfield man dies in smoking-related fire
(From the Springfield Fire Department)
A Springfield man has died, following a smoking-related fire.
A Springfield man has died, following a smoking-related fire.
On November 12th, firefighters were called to the home on the 2000 block of N. Main for a medical call. Firefighters found 70-year-old Ray Atkinson with burns to the face from smoking while utilizing medical oxygen.
Investigators say flames ignited when the heat from the lighter came into contact with oxygen-enriched air. The injury occurred several hours prior to the arrival by firefighters. Atkinson was transported to the Mercy Burn Unit, where he later died. This marks the first fire-related fatality in Springfield in 2017.
The Springfield Fire Department urges all users of medical oxygen to avoid smoking and to keep other ignition sources, such as candles, matches and wood stoves away from medical oxygen.
The Springfield Fire Department urges all users of medical oxygen to avoid smoking and to keep other ignition sources, such as candles, matches and wood stoves away from medical oxygen.
Twenty-one Citizens Police Academy graduates honored at ceremony
The Springfield Police Department honored 21 graduates of the 2017 Citizens Police Academy with a ceremony on Nov. 20 at the Springfield Regional Police and Fire Training Center. Participants completed 30 hours of instruction over 11 weeks, and they covered a variety of topics such as police policies, organizational structure, investigative processes, tactics and the challenges involved in providing a safe community.
Applications for the 2018 class will be accepted in the spring.
(L-R) Chief Paul Williams, Chris Creager, Kelly Creager, Steve Everest, Linda Foster, Elbie McCowan, Lori Muetzel, Joe Johnson, Ryan Dalton, Terry Kolaks, Christina Strodtman, Jerry Rowland, Esther Storm, Mickey Russell, Jill Wiggins, Phillip Secca, Officer Kaylee Friend.
Not pictured: Eric Clay, Keaton Worley, Richard Biehl, Chris Nease, Michael Updegrave, Savannah Stepp.
Gunshot victim found in McDonald's parking lot on Kearney, dies at local hospital
(From the Springfield Police Department)
Springfield police were dispatched to the parking lot of the McDonald’s restaurant at 1114 W. Kearney at 12:04 a.m. on Nov. 21, after a 911 caller stated a male subject had been shot.
Springfield police were dispatched to the parking lot of the McDonald’s restaurant at 1114 W. Kearney at 12:04 a.m. on Nov. 21, after a 911 caller stated a male subject had been shot.
When officers arrived at the scene, a male was found seriously injured with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the hospital by ambulance but later died from his injuries.
The victim was identified as Zachary J. Zumwalt, 28, of Springfield. Next of kin notifications have been made for the victim.
A suspect has not yet been identified. Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.
The victim was identified as Zachary J. Zumwalt, 28, of Springfield. Next of kin notifications have been made for the victim.
A suspect has not yet been identified. Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.
Monday, November 20, 2017
Springfield Fire Department issues quarterly report
(From the Springfield Fire Department)
Rescue Company 1 is officially in service. The apparatus was put into service on September 8th following a traditional wet-down ceremony dating back to the late 1800's. More details and a photo from the ceremony is including in the Springfield Fire Department's Quarterly Fire Safety Report (QFSR). The report highlights updates from the Department during the third quarter of 2017.
Along with information about the wet-down ceremony, the QFSR includes details on calls for service during the 3rd quarter and an update on Project RED Zone, the Department's program aimed at ensuring all Springfield residents have working smoke alarms. During the third quarter, the victim of a house fire credited a smoke alarm installed during Project RED Zone with notifying her of a fire in the apartment above her. More than 1,000 alarms have already been installed as a part of Project RED Zone, as the program moves into Heart of the Westside neighborhood during the fourth quarter of 2017.
The entire QFSR can be viewed here.
Rescue Company 1 is officially in service. The apparatus was put into service on September 8th following a traditional wet-down ceremony dating back to the late 1800's. More details and a photo from the ceremony is including in the Springfield Fire Department's Quarterly Fire Safety Report (QFSR). The report highlights updates from the Department during the third quarter of 2017.
Along with information about the wet-down ceremony, the QFSR includes details on calls for service during the 3rd quarter and an update on Project RED Zone, the Department's program aimed at ensuring all Springfield residents have working smoke alarms. During the third quarter, the victim of a house fire credited a smoke alarm installed during Project RED Zone with notifying her of a fire in the apartment above her. More than 1,000 alarms have already been installed as a part of Project RED Zone, as the program moves into Heart of the Westside neighborhood during the fourth quarter of 2017.
The entire QFSR can be viewed here.
Petition to repeal Springfield pit bull ban to go to City Council
(From the City of Springfield)
City Clerk Anita Cotter notified City Council today that a citizen-initiated petition to repeal general ordinance 6397, which established a future ban upon the possession of new pit bull dogs within the City limits, has been certified as containing sufficient signatures to be forwarded to City Council for consideration.
The number of certified signatures needed was 2,228, however, in keeping with policy, the Clerk’s office certified 2,269 signatures, before stopping the certification process. Organizers turned in the petition Oct. 31.
Now that the petition has been certified, the future ban's enactment has been suspended and City Council has 30 days to either repeal the ordinance or send the issue to the ballot for a vote of the people. It is anticipated that City Council will take public comment on the issue at the Nov. 27, 2017 meeting, with final action being taken at the Dec. 11, 2017 meeting.
City Clerk Anita Cotter notified City Council today that a citizen-initiated petition to repeal general ordinance 6397, which established a future ban upon the possession of new pit bull dogs within the City limits, has been certified as containing sufficient signatures to be forwarded to City Council for consideration.
The number of certified signatures needed was 2,228, however, in keeping with policy, the Clerk’s office certified 2,269 signatures, before stopping the certification process. Organizers turned in the petition Oct. 31.
Now that the petition has been certified, the future ban's enactment has been suspended and City Council has 30 days to either repeal the ordinance or send the issue to the ballot for a vote of the people. It is anticipated that City Council will take public comment on the issue at the Nov. 27, 2017 meeting, with final action being taken at the Dec. 11, 2017 meeting.
Greene County Sheriff's Office nabs three people for burglary, stealing a motor vehicle
(From the Greene County Sheriff's Office)
While you were at work: Three more suspects/thieves were booked into the Greene County jail for burglary and stealing a motor vehicle.
On 11/20/2017 Greene County deputies responded to a disturbance in the 2000 block of S State Highway N.
While you were at work: Three more suspects/thieves were booked into the Greene County jail for burglary and stealing a motor vehicle.
On 11/20/2017 Greene County deputies responded to a disturbance in the 2000 block of S State Highway N.
The reporting party advised there were two males walking out of a shed on the property with belongings. Deputy Rudderham arrived and located a female in the back seat passenger side of a green dodge van with no plates. Cpl Hicks apprehended a male suspect near the intersection of State Highway N and Farm Road 60. Cpl. Hicks also located the third suspect near State Highway TT and State Highway N.
These arrests were made possible by the citizens of Greene County. Thank you for calling in and notifying us, your neighbors appreciate you.
These arrests were made possible by the citizens of Greene County. Thank you for calling in and notifying us, your neighbors appreciate you.
Friday, November 17, 2017
Agenda posted for Springfield-Greene County Library Board of Trustees meeting
Notice is hereby given that the Springfield-Greene County Library Board of Trustees will meet or vote November 21, 2017, 4 p.m. at The Library Station, 2535 N. Kansas Expressway, Springfield.
Tentative Agenda
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of minutes from October 17, 2017 meeting
3. Standing Committees:
a. Finance/Personnel Committee
i. Finance Report
b. Buildings & Grounds Committee
c. Programs, Services and Technology Committee
4. Report of the Director
5. Library Foundation update
6. Old Business
7. New Business Fiscal Year 2017 financial audit report
8. Miscellaneous Items Closed session, § 610.021(1), RSMo
9. Adjournment
Tentative Agenda
1. Roll Call
2. Approval of minutes from October 17, 2017 meeting
3. Standing Committees:
a. Finance/Personnel Committee
i. Finance Report
b. Buildings & Grounds Committee
c. Programs, Services and Technology Committee
4. Report of the Director
5. Library Foundation update
6. Old Business
7. New Business Fiscal Year 2017 financial audit report
8. Miscellaneous Items Closed session, § 610.021(1), RSMo
9. Adjournment
Springfield Fire Department to test smoke alarms in Heart of the Westside neighborhood
(From the Springfield Fire Department)
Springfield firefighters are continuing their efforts to ensure every Springfield family has adequate warning in case of a fire. Since April, firefighters have visited nearly every home (6073) in West Central, Grant Beach and Robberson neighborhoods, testing 2,121 smoke alarms, installing 1,077 new alarms and changing 315 batteries. It’s part of an effort called Project RED Zone. The ultimate goal is to reduce fires and prevent fire deaths. Fire crews will move on to a new phase this weekend in another Springfield neighborhood with a high fire risk. On Saturday, crews will begin visiting homes in Heart of the Westside neighborhood, testing smoke alarms and installing new ones where needed at no charge.
Project RED Zone – a reference to the red areas on the Springfield Fire Department’s map of fire incidents – stands for Reduce, Educate, Deliver. It is part of SFD’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) program. The multifaceted campaign, which is part of the Zone Blitz, aims to ensure every home in Zone 1 - the area of the City with the highest fire risk - has working smoke alarms.
Every Saturday for as long as it takes to complete the project, fire crews will canvass Zone 1 knocking on doors, offering to test smoke alarms and installing new alarms or provide batteries if needed at no charge. The department is continuing its campaign in Heart of the Westside, another area which has an extremely high fire risk. In 2016, there were 18 fires in Heart of the Westside - among the highest of Springfield’s neighborhoods.
Springfield’s fire death rate is among the highest in the United States. In fact, it’s nearly triple the national average. In 2016, Springfield experienced five fire deaths. This is the equivalent of nearly 30 fire deaths per one million people. The national average is just over 10. Working smoke alarms doubles your chances of surviving a fire, yet data shows most Springfield homes are not adequately protected by smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, in each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
Project RED Zone is funded with the help of donations from the American Red Cross of Southern Missouri and Safe Kids Springfield and general revenue SFD funds designated for public education. If successful and if funding is available for additional alarms and batteries, the department hopes to continue to expand the program to other parts of the city. As always, the Fire Department offers free smoke alarms and batteries to anyone in need. To obtain a free alarm, call 874-2300.
Springfield firefighters are continuing their efforts to ensure every Springfield family has adequate warning in case of a fire. Since April, firefighters have visited nearly every home (6073) in West Central, Grant Beach and Robberson neighborhoods, testing 2,121 smoke alarms, installing 1,077 new alarms and changing 315 batteries. It’s part of an effort called Project RED Zone. The ultimate goal is to reduce fires and prevent fire deaths. Fire crews will move on to a new phase this weekend in another Springfield neighborhood with a high fire risk. On Saturday, crews will begin visiting homes in Heart of the Westside neighborhood, testing smoke alarms and installing new ones where needed at no charge.
Project RED Zone – a reference to the red areas on the Springfield Fire Department’s map of fire incidents – stands for Reduce, Educate, Deliver. It is part of SFD’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) program. The multifaceted campaign, which is part of the Zone Blitz, aims to ensure every home in Zone 1 - the area of the City with the highest fire risk - has working smoke alarms.
Every Saturday for as long as it takes to complete the project, fire crews will canvass Zone 1 knocking on doors, offering to test smoke alarms and installing new alarms or provide batteries if needed at no charge. The department is continuing its campaign in Heart of the Westside, another area which has an extremely high fire risk. In 2016, there were 18 fires in Heart of the Westside - among the highest of Springfield’s neighborhoods.
Springfield’s fire death rate is among the highest in the United States. In fact, it’s nearly triple the national average. In 2016, Springfield experienced five fire deaths. This is the equivalent of nearly 30 fire deaths per one million people. The national average is just over 10. Working smoke alarms doubles your chances of surviving a fire, yet data shows most Springfield homes are not adequately protected by smoke alarms. Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, in each bedroom and outside each sleeping area.
Project RED Zone is funded with the help of donations from the American Red Cross of Southern Missouri and Safe Kids Springfield and general revenue SFD funds designated for public education. If successful and if funding is available for additional alarms and batteries, the department hopes to continue to expand the program to other parts of the city. As always, the Fire Department offers free smoke alarms and batteries to anyone in need. To obtain a free alarm, call 874-2300.
Man in critical condition with gunshot wound, suspect sought after armed robbery at Springfield convenience store
(From the Springfield Police Department)
Springfield police were dispatched to the parking lot of 1472 E. Kearney, the Gastrip convenience store, at 4:31 p.m. on Nov. 16, regarding a subject who had been shot.
Springfield police were dispatched to the parking lot of 1472 E. Kearney, the Gastrip convenience store, at 4:31 p.m. on Nov. 16, regarding a subject who had been shot.
When officers arrived at the scene, a male subject was found seriously injured with apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the hospital and is currently in stable, but critical, condition.
While conducting the follow-up investigation and witness interviews, officers learned that the suspect of the shooting had arrived in a dark colored Toyota 4-door and appeared to be the passenger of the vehicle. Shortly after the suspect arrived, the victim arrived driving a motorcycle.
While conducting the follow-up investigation and witness interviews, officers learned that the suspect of the shooting had arrived in a dark colored Toyota 4-door and appeared to be the passenger of the vehicle. Shortly after the suspect arrived, the victim arrived driving a motorcycle.
The victim parked his motorcycle at a gas pump and walked inside the Gastrip. While the victim was inside the Gastrip, the suspect attempted to steal the victim’s motorcycle by pushing it from the parking lot. The victim observed the suspect stealing his motorcycle and ran toward the suspect. The suspect dropped the motorcycle, produced a handgun and shot the victim. The suspect then reentered the passenger side of the dark colored 4-door Toyota, and the vehicle fled the scene.
A suspect has not yet been identified. Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.
A suspect has not yet been identified. Detectives continue to investigate and are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or make an anonymous call to Crime Stoppers at 417-869-8477.
Portion of Walnut Street to close Sunday through Tuesday
(From the City of Springfield)
Walnut Street will close between South Avenue and Jefferson Avenue beginning 7 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 19 through 7 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21 for the repair of the roadway where underground utility lines required maintenance.
Walnut Street will close between South Avenue and Jefferson Avenue beginning 7 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 19 through 7 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21 for the repair of the roadway where underground utility lines required maintenance.
U. S. Bankruptcy Court Filings- Springfield
Christian County
Andrew Thomas Routh and Tamara Renita Routh
Lagenda Kay Schwark
Kelli Colleen Williams
Katherine Gail Carter
Greene County
Matthew John Hancock
Joseph Henry Dirigo
Ralph Ellis Longston, Jr., and Jackey Lyn Longston
Stephanie Ann Souders
Christian Danielle Johnson
Lisa Diane Collins and Cheryle Gail Collins
Tisha L. Morgan
Marilyn Gingras
Linda K. Bolin
Ryan L. Montgomery and Heather D. Montgomery
Joseph Martin Jordan and Amanda Jo Jordan
Anita Paige Kessler
Oregon County
Clifford Alvin Sisco, Jr., and Rose Inez Sisco
Pulaski County
Paul Richter
Webster County
Shelley Deann Mason
Andrew Thomas Routh and Tamara Renita Routh
Lagenda Kay Schwark
Kelli Colleen Williams
Katherine Gail Carter
Greene County
Matthew John Hancock
Joseph Henry Dirigo
Ralph Ellis Longston, Jr., and Jackey Lyn Longston
Stephanie Ann Souders
Christian Danielle Johnson
Lisa Diane Collins and Cheryle Gail Collins
Tisha L. Morgan
Marilyn Gingras
Linda K. Bolin
Ryan L. Montgomery and Heather D. Montgomery
Joseph Martin Jordan and Amanda Jo Jordan
Anita Paige Kessler
Oregon County
Clifford Alvin Sisco, Jr., and Rose Inez Sisco
Pulaski County
Paul Richter
Webster County
Shelley Deann Mason
Rogersville teen dies in fiery crash
A Rogersville teen was killed in a one-vehicle accident 8:45 p.m. Wednesday on Farm Road 186, five miles west of Rogersville.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2011 Cheverolet Camaro driven by Savannah B. Williams, 16, Rogersville, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, overturned and caught on fire.
The fatality was the seventh this month for Highway Patrol Troop D and the 95th for the year.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2011 Cheverolet Camaro driven by Savannah B. Williams, 16, Rogersville, traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a tree, overturned and caught on fire.
The fatality was the seventh this month for Highway Patrol Troop D and the 95th for the year.
Branson woman injured in one-vehicle accident on 160
A Branson woman was injured in a one-vehicle accident 3:36 p.m. Thursday on U. S. 160, one mile east of Merriam Woods.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1998 Cadillac Deville driven by Margaret A. Stoops, 65, Branson, ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.
Stoops was treated for moderate injuries at Cox Hospital, Branson.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1998 Cadillac Deville driven by Margaret A. Stoops, 65, Branson, ran off the right side of the roadway and struck a tree.
Stoops was treated for moderate injuries at Cox Hospital, Branson.
Branson teen airlifted to Cox South after slamming into trees
A Branson teen was injured in a one-vehicle accident 3:59 p.m. Thursday on Route T near Cross Creek in Taney County.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 Toyota 4 Runner driven by Manuel Z. Marquez, 16, Branson, was traveling too fast, skidded off the right side of the roadway on a curve, impacted the ground, rolled over and struck two large cedar trees.
A passenger, Marvin Marquez, 15, Branson, was taken to Cox Branson Hospital, then airlifted to Cox South, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 Toyota 4 Runner driven by Manuel Z. Marquez, 16, Branson, was traveling too fast, skidded off the right side of the roadway on a curve, impacted the ground, rolled over and struck two large cedar trees.
A passenger, Marvin Marquez, 15, Branson, was taken to Cox Branson Hospital, then airlifted to Cox South, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
Agenda posted for Springfield City Council lunch meeting
Springfield City Council Lunch
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
12:00 pm or immediately the Special City Council Meeting
Busch Building - 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Review of upcoming November 27th, 2017 City Council Meeting Agenda
2. Pedestrian, Street and Intersection Safety Study
3. Any and all matters to come before City Council
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
12:00 pm or immediately the Special City Council Meeting
Busch Building - 4th Floor Conference Room 840 Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Review of upcoming November 27th, 2017 City Council Meeting Agenda
2. Pedestrian, Street and Intersection Safety Study
3. Any and all matters to come before City Council
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
U. S. Capitol Christmas Tree to make a stop in Springfield
(From the City of Springfield)
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium have been selected to be a “whistle stop” for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as it makes its way from the Kootenai National Forest in Montana to Washington, D.C. Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the Christmas season.
The tree, cut earlier this month and prepared for the more than 2,000-mile expedition, includes a series of community celebrations such as the one scheduled at Bass Pro Shops in Springfield 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21. The public is invited to participate in the celebration which includes a series of festive family-friendly activities.
The Republic High School marching band and Christmas carols presented by the “City/County Singers” will entertain the crowd. Other special features include live reindeer, S’mores, hot cocoa and outdoor cooking demonstrations. In addition, elves from Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland will be helping kids make Christmas crafts. A large banner on the side of the truck carrying the tree on its journey will allow event attendees the chance to sign and wish the tree a safe journey.
Other festivities during the tree’s visit to Springfield and Bass Pro Shops include a short ceremony beginning at 4:30 p.m. with special remarks from Springfield City Mayor Ken McClure, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World General Manager Lee Beasley and a representative from the U.S. Forest Service. The tree and event will be in the main parking lot in front of the grand entrance at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, 1935 S. Campbell.
Special guests include Missouri-artist Jennifer Dodson whose hand-painted ornaments were chosen to represent Missouri at the lighting of the “People’s Tree,” Springfield Mayor Pro Tem Jan Fisk, numerous City officials, Smokey Bear and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Scouts from the Ozarks Trail Council Boy Scouts Wa-Sha-She Lodge Order of the Arrow will be on-hand to talk with area residents about the Christmas tree recycling program. The troop will be collecting discarded trees after the holiday. Bass Pro Shops has partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation for 31 years to recycle Christmas trees to provide wildlife habitat for Missouri wildlife.
After the tree event, families are invited to come inside Bass Pro Shops and experience the return of Santa’s Wonderland– a massive Christmas village transformation inside Bass Pro Shops locations nationwide through Dec. 24 featuring free photos with Santa and free family holiday activities including crafts, games and holiday magic for the whole family. All activities are open to the public and free for all to enjoy.
“We are honored to be a whistle stop on the tour of the U.S. Capitol tree and encourage people to come out to see it and to enjoy the fun festivities planned. Holidays in Springfield are always such an exciting time and we are thrilled that Bass Pro and others are doing so many things to help celebrate the season,” said Springfield Mayor Ken McClure. Mayor McClure will also make a proclamation declaring Nov. 21, 2017 as “U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Day” in Springfield, Missouri.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is made possible thanks to companies large and small as well as volunteers locally and across America, who provide vital support of time and resources.
For more information on the Springfield tour stop, visit www.basspro.com/springfield. For related news, events and tour information, and to track the tree cross-country, visit www.capitolchristmastree.com, along with Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World and Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium have been selected to be a “whistle stop” for the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree as it makes its way from the Kootenai National Forest in Montana to Washington, D.C. Every year, a different national forest is selected to provide a tree to appear on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol for the Christmas season.
The tree, cut earlier this month and prepared for the more than 2,000-mile expedition, includes a series of community celebrations such as the one scheduled at Bass Pro Shops in Springfield 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 21. The public is invited to participate in the celebration which includes a series of festive family-friendly activities.
The Republic High School marching band and Christmas carols presented by the “City/County Singers” will entertain the crowd. Other special features include live reindeer, S’mores, hot cocoa and outdoor cooking demonstrations. In addition, elves from Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland will be helping kids make Christmas crafts. A large banner on the side of the truck carrying the tree on its journey will allow event attendees the chance to sign and wish the tree a safe journey.
Other festivities during the tree’s visit to Springfield and Bass Pro Shops include a short ceremony beginning at 4:30 p.m. with special remarks from Springfield City Mayor Ken McClure, Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World General Manager Lee Beasley and a representative from the U.S. Forest Service. The tree and event will be in the main parking lot in front of the grand entrance at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World, 1935 S. Campbell.
Special guests include Missouri-artist Jennifer Dodson whose hand-painted ornaments were chosen to represent Missouri at the lighting of the “People’s Tree,” Springfield Mayor Pro Tem Jan Fisk, numerous City officials, Smokey Bear and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Scouts from the Ozarks Trail Council Boy Scouts Wa-Sha-She Lodge Order of the Arrow will be on-hand to talk with area residents about the Christmas tree recycling program. The troop will be collecting discarded trees after the holiday. Bass Pro Shops has partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation for 31 years to recycle Christmas trees to provide wildlife habitat for Missouri wildlife.
After the tree event, families are invited to come inside Bass Pro Shops and experience the return of Santa’s Wonderland– a massive Christmas village transformation inside Bass Pro Shops locations nationwide through Dec. 24 featuring free photos with Santa and free family holiday activities including crafts, games and holiday magic for the whole family. All activities are open to the public and free for all to enjoy.
“We are honored to be a whistle stop on the tour of the U.S. Capitol tree and encourage people to come out to see it and to enjoy the fun festivities planned. Holidays in Springfield are always such an exciting time and we are thrilled that Bass Pro and others are doing so many things to help celebrate the season,” said Springfield Mayor Ken McClure. Mayor McClure will also make a proclamation declaring Nov. 21, 2017 as “U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Day” in Springfield, Missouri.
The U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is made possible thanks to companies large and small as well as volunteers locally and across America, who provide vital support of time and resources.
For more information on the Springfield tour stop, visit www.basspro.com/springfield. For related news, events and tour information, and to track the tree cross-country, visit www.capitolchristmastree.com, along with Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Springfield woman, Lockwood couple injured in four-vehicle accident on 96
Three people were injured in a four-vehicle accident 5:35 p.m. Tuesday on MO 96, 2.5 miles west of Halltown.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1987 GMC Brigadier driven by Howard W. Hodgson, 71, Everton, was stopped to make a left turn and was struck in the rear by a 2006 Kia Spectra driven by Zandria J. Orman, 27, Springfield. The Orman vehicle spun into the westbound lane and was struck by a 2004 Buick Rendezvous driven by Lowell S. Ryals, 57, Lockwood, and a 1993 Ford F150 driven by Thomas D. Lacy, 54, Miller.
Orman was treated for serious injuries and Ryals and a passenger in his vehicle, Samantha J. Ryals, 52, Lockwood, for minor injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 1987 GMC Brigadier driven by Howard W. Hodgson, 71, Everton, was stopped to make a left turn and was struck in the rear by a 2006 Kia Spectra driven by Zandria J. Orman, 27, Springfield. The Orman vehicle spun into the westbound lane and was struck by a 2004 Buick Rendezvous driven by Lowell S. Ryals, 57, Lockwood, and a 1993 Ford F150 driven by Thomas D. Lacy, 54, Miller.
Orman was treated for serious injuries and Ryals and a passenger in his vehicle, Samantha J. Ryals, 52, Lockwood, for minor injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.
Springfield man sentenced to 12 years on child pornography charge
A Springfield, Mo., man who collected hundreds of thousands of images of child pornography over the past decade was sentenced in federal court today.
David William Ray, 40, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge M. Douglas Harpool to 12 years in federal prison without parole.
On April 5, 2017, Ray pleaded guilty to receiving and distributing child pornography between Oct. 17, 2016, and Jan. 26, 2017.
According to court documents, Ray came to the attention of law enforcement because he was uploading child pornography to Skype. Ray told investigators that he would pose as a single father who was sending sexually explicit images of his daughters in order to trade images of child pornography with other users on KIK and Skype.
Ray, who was actively engaged in trading, downloading, and viewing child pornography for the past decade, amassed well over 500,000 images and videos of child pornography. Ray told investigators that he was addicted to child pornography.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ami Harshad Miller. It was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crime Task Force.
Deaths of Pierce City woman, 10-year-old daughter ruled murder-suicide
(From the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office)
An autopsy has been completed on Kaydee Moerer and Sara Spears. The autopsy has confirmed what Lawrence County investigators had believed happened at the rural Pierce City residence.
The cause of death for Kaydee Moerer was a single gunshot to the back of the head. The cause of death for Sara Spears was a single gunshot to her forehead.
Based on the investigation along with the autopsy results, the incident is being officially ruled as a murder/suicide.
A recap of the incident follows:
On Monday November 13, 2017 the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office received a call for a well being check at Spears residence to assist the Division of Family Services. There were no Deputies in the immediate area so mutual aid was requested from the Pierce City Police Department.
Chief Abramovitz with PCPD responded to the scene to assist DFS until Deputies could arrive. Based on information that was obtained previously and at the scene, Chief Abramovitz made entry into the residence where the two bodies were discovered. After discovering the bodies, he was able to secure the scene until deputies arrived.
Upon arrival Chief Abromovitz advised the deputies what he had found and deputies made entry into the residence to begin the investigation. The bodies were identified as 40 year old Sara Spears and her daughter 10 year old Kaydee Moerer. They were released to the Lawrence County Coroner for autopsy.
On Tuesday November 14, 2017 the autopsy was conducted and the cause of death was determined.
This incident was ruled a murder/suicide and an isolated incident.
The investigation is continuing to determine how much time had elapsed since someone last had contact with Spears or Moerer.
An autopsy has been completed on Kaydee Moerer and Sara Spears. The autopsy has confirmed what Lawrence County investigators had believed happened at the rural Pierce City residence.
The cause of death for Kaydee Moerer was a single gunshot to the back of the head. The cause of death for Sara Spears was a single gunshot to her forehead.
Based on the investigation along with the autopsy results, the incident is being officially ruled as a murder/suicide.
A recap of the incident follows:
On Monday November 13, 2017 the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office received a call for a well being check at Spears residence to assist the Division of Family Services. There were no Deputies in the immediate area so mutual aid was requested from the Pierce City Police Department.
Chief Abramovitz with PCPD responded to the scene to assist DFS until Deputies could arrive. Based on information that was obtained previously and at the scene, Chief Abramovitz made entry into the residence where the two bodies were discovered. After discovering the bodies, he was able to secure the scene until deputies arrived.
Upon arrival Chief Abromovitz advised the deputies what he had found and deputies made entry into the residence to begin the investigation. The bodies were identified as 40 year old Sara Spears and her daughter 10 year old Kaydee Moerer. They were released to the Lawrence County Coroner for autopsy.
On Tuesday November 14, 2017 the autopsy was conducted and the cause of death was determined.
This incident was ruled a murder/suicide and an isolated incident.
The investigation is continuing to determine how much time had elapsed since someone last had contact with Spears or Moerer.
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
Citizens help Greene County Sheriff capture suspected thieves
While you were sleeping. Two more thieves were arrested for breaking into cars and booked into the Greene County jail.
Just after midnight on 11/14/2017, a resident in the area of the 1900 block of west Sexton noticed a suspicious vehicle, a loud truck with lights across the cab in the neighborhood and called 911.
A number of deputies were close by and responded. Deputy Weiss located Jeffrey Hill was going through a car parked at an address on Sexton and detained him. While doing so, the truck noted in the original call attempted to leave the area. Hill claimed he was looking for his friend’s vehicle and thought this one was it. Hill was found to have drugs in his possession as well as a check that belonged to the vehicle owner in his pocket.
Deputy Adams located the truck and contacted the driver, Misty Dunlap. The truck was not insured and had no license plates. There was a street sign in the back, from the 1700 block of N. Old Orchard Road, Springfield. Dunlap was arrested for the registration violations and possession of the stolen street sign.
Quick response on the part of the deputies and vigilant neighbors helped to catch these thieves before they were able to get very far. Teamwork with the community is paying off.
Deputy Adams located the truck and contacted the driver, Misty Dunlap. The truck was not insured and had no license plates. There was a street sign in the back, from the 1700 block of N. Old Orchard Road, Springfield. Dunlap was arrested for the registration violations and possession of the stolen street sign.
Quick response on the part of the deputies and vigilant neighbors helped to catch these thieves before they were able to get very far. Teamwork with the community is paying off.
Springfield city manager resigns
(From the City of Springfield)
Springfield City Manager Greg Burris has resigned his role as City Manager effective June 30, 2018, and will likely transition to the role of Executive Director of the Give 5 Program, effective July 8, 2018. Give 5 is the city’s new program designed to make the Springfield-Greene County community the top destination in the nation for retirees to get engaged in meaningful volunteerism. City Council has encouraged further development of the program and is hopeful that Burris will consider remaining with the City to lead the program.
“We are not aware of any program like this anywhere else in the country,” Burris said. “It has the ability to be a game changer and a strong economic development tool for our community. In addition to helping retirees find their next purpose in life and connecting those highly skilled volunteers with non-profits in need, Give 5 also serves as a vehicle and next step in helping to address some of the issues uncovered during the Zone Blitz and Impacting Poverty initiatives.”
Burris approached City Council in August and announced his intention to step down effective Feb. 28, 2018, but City Council “rejected” his resignation and asked him to stay through June 30, 2018, in order to lead the City through the completion of the FY19 budget. Burris wanted to provide City Council with enough notice so they can conduct a successful search for his replacement and agreed to delay his transition until June 30, 2018.
City Council’s intention is to begin a search for a new city manager in January and have a selection made who can begin July 1, 2018. More information about the search process and timeline will be announced later.
“It feels like the right time to step aside and let someone else take our community to the next level. My goal, stated to the City Council members who hired me, has always been to leave this job as the most sought-after city manager position in the state. I hope that's the case and we attract an extraordinary pool of candidates eager to become part of this incredible team. We’ve created a healthy organizational culture centered around respect, innovation and customer service. Our community has a lot of momentum right now, and I think our progress on many fronts will help draw a lot of interest to this job,” Burris said.
“While I told my wife when I was hired that I would probably only do this for about five years, it's been nine, and it will be almost 10 by the time I transition to my new role. I am very proud of our team of employees and what we've accomplished during the past nine years. But of all the things we've done, I'm most proud of the fact that we didn't shy away from any problem and we took the biggest challenges head on. Working together, we ‘moved the needle’ on many of these issues and hopefully made Springfield a better place. And if I've done my job, they won't miss a beat as we transition to new leadership next year.”
Burris is a well-known and well-regarded leader in the region and has initiated significant positive change in the City of Springfield organization and in the community served by the local government’s 20-plus departments. His tireless work ethic and ability to bring teams of people together to proactively and successfully address difficult issues are characteristics that both he and the City have become known for over the course of his tenure.
He recently completed his ninth year as City Manager, a role that is described as the chief executive officer of the City. As City Manager, he is responsible for the overall operation of the City, for executing all policies and programs authorized by City Council, and providing general direction to the City’s Leadership Team. The City Manager has direct responsibility for approximately 2,300 full- and part-time employees, a $334 million annual budget, and $1.3 billion in assets. (A detailed list of the department heads that report to the City Manager is included below.)
Burris, Springfield’s 12th City Manager since the City Charter was enacted in 1953, was sworn into office on Sept. 15, 2008. When asked about his start in City government, he often shares the fact that this is the same date the stock market crashed, signaling the start of the worst recession in 50 years. Accepting it as a challenge, rather than feeling dismayed, Burris pressed forward, building a nationally recognized leadership team, who together with community support, addressed a $200-million shortfall in the Police-Fire Pension Fund, presented a balanced budget each year without borrowing or dipping into the City’s reserves and likely saved citizens $400 million by creatively addressing unfunded federal environmental mandates through a first-of-its-kind integrated plan for the environment.
Burris had to make tough choices immediately when he took the helm in 2008. The City tightened its belt, surviving the recession by instituting a hiring freeze that resulted in 200 vacant positions and together with what he describes as the “best leadership team in the country,” departments continued to “live within our means” as he said, while still providing high-quality services to Springfield’s citizens and visitors.
The City’s fiscal health has also substantially improved under Burris’ leadership. Moody’s, a bond rating agency that ranks the creditworthiness of borrowers, increased the City’s bond rating to Aa1 during the recession, a time when many cities faced downgraded ratings and subsequent financial challenges.
“The City’s financial position is expected to remain healthy over the near-term given its current satisfactory reserve levels which provide adequate cushion against fluctuating sales tax revenues and prudent fiscal management,” Moody’s reported.
The City’s Workers Compensation Fund balance also improved during Burris’ tenure, rising from being $5.9 million in debt in 2008, to a having a positive balance by the end of fiscal year 2012. Burris also oversaw establishment of organization-wide insurance coverage to better protect City assets.
Auditors look upon Springfield favorably, issuing all clean external audits, and the City has received the highest possible ratings in all eight external audits performed during Burris’ tenure. In addition, the Citizens Sales Tax Oversight Committee, created in a good faith effort to reassure citizens that the Police-Fire Pension Sales Tax (and subsequently, other City taxes) revenues and expenditures would be reviewed regularly by a highly skilled and experienced group of citizens has also delivered only positive ratings to City Council and the community. Burris would go on to create a couple of dozen citizen-driven task forces, councils and programs, including the influential and engaged Neighborhood Advisory Council with then Mayor Bob Stephens and Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky.
Across the country, pension shortfalls have resulted in numerous municipal bankruptcies, resulting in deplorable inner city conditions in some instances, and a significant flight of talent out of some of America’s previously strongest cities. The Wall Street Journal referenced Springfield’s success in addressing the issue in an in-depth series related to the matter, acknowledging the creative and note-worthy passage of a Police-Fire Pension Sales Tax. The sales tax was subsequently renewed in 2014 by a wide margin.
The City of Springfield fortunately did not face bankruptcy and is run efficiently within identified revenue streams while providing award-winning service that continues to help develop Springfield as a magnet for new jobs, people and industries. The City’s solid transportation infrastructure and culture of collaboration further seal the deal for companies looking to locate or relocate and ultimately make Springfield home. Springfield is a strong, mid-size city with enviable community support for infrastructure improvement (the City’s 1/4-cent capital improvements and 1/8-cent transportation sales taxes were both renewed in 2016 by more than 80% voter approval).
However, being heavily dependent upon sales tax revenue (more than 50% of the City’s general fund revenue comes from sales tax), Burris and his team have had to be shrewd when managing operations that depend heavily on such a volatile (and in some locations across the country, shrinking, due to competing online sales) primary revenue source.
“We are committed to living within our means, while continuing to provide superior levels of service. Our departments have done a remarkable job of that, based on citizen satisfaction scores and voter confidence in sales tax renewals,” Burris explained when the fiscal year 2018 budget was passed. “It’s clear, though, because of the volatility of sales tax, that a new funding model – and one that does not raise taxes – is needed.”
The recent Level Property Tax continuation proposal was an attempt to help identify a more stable revenue source for certain critical community needs: property tax. The Nov. 7 passage of the renewal without a sunset will not constitute a tax increase and will relieve some (but not all) of the pressure, particularly in the priority area of public safety. Voters overwhelmingly (75%) approved the continuation without a sunset provision, which will allow the additional use of this funding source for additional police officers and fire fighters, as well as capital projects like new and remodeled fire stations and life cycle replacement of police and fire vehicles. The City has not previously had a funding source for life cycle replacement of vehicles and equipment.
The passage of an additional 1/2-cent Greene County sales tax to help fund a jail expansion and much-needed crime-prevention initiatives to help address community mental health and substance abuse issues should also have a positive impact on the community’s ability to address crime and overall public safety. Burris and City leaders worked with County leaders for nearly two years to identify and develop recommendations – many of which will come to fruition now that additional funding is available for both the City and County.
"I was surprised to hear Greg's announcement, but I can understand his decision to step away,” said Police Chief Paul Williams. “Being at the helm of the City for 10 years with his level of commitment is all encompassing and can wear on you over time. I assure you that no one is more passionate about our community, and Greg infused all of us with his sense of pride and focus on making Springfield great. It is disappointing to see him leave the team that he built, but I am confident we are well positioned for the future. Although he was my boss, he was also a colleague and friend, and I wish him the best."
A dynamic leader not afraid to confront institutional norms or trigger controversy when needed, Burris rallied the City’s leaders, as well as community leaders, to “swing for the fences” on a variety of issues, in addition to addressing core concerns of public safety, economic vitality and fiscal sustainability.
“I'm proud of the extraordinary level of creativity and innovation that occurs within our teams. That doesn't occur by accident, and it doesn’t occur in every city. It happens when dedicated, talented people are challenged and then given the resources and freedom to find creative solutions. I'd put the quality of our Leadership Team up against any city in the country. The success of our teams and individuals is often recognized more within their national and international professional fields than known locally,” he said. “I believe the City of Springfield has been awarded more professional accreditations than any other city in the country.”
Burris has spent a lot of time with citizens of all ages, from all backgrounds, in various places, in an attempt to help Springfield “get better at getting better” as he has been known to say. His original “listening tour” in 2009 traversed from elementary schools to board rooms, as he gathered input for a communitywide strategic planning process known as Field Guide 2030. The ambitious project added six new chapters not included in past community plans. Since that first listening tour, he has also hired the community’s first director of civic engagement (Cora Scott) in 2012 to ensure citizens’ voices are heard and launched a targeted Community Listen Tour specifically in Springfield’s Zone 1 in 2015. The subsequent Zone Blitz initiative to address 11 target needs identified during the Community Listen Tour is still underway, with more than 300 community partners engaged. Burris also co-chaired the Impacting Poverty Commission, a 30-member body that researched the dimensions of poverty in Springfield for more than a year, made specific recommendations for action, and is working to implement those recommended actions via the Prosper Springfield initiative.
A surprising, but positive, turn of events through the efforts to address poverty, was the development of a meaningful relationship between the City and the community’s large number of faith-based institutions. As Burris and Scott began getting invited into area churches to discuss what church-goers could do to help the residents of Zone 1, an impromptu “church tour” ignited both interest and engagement.
Several high-profile, successful projects have sprung from the 2015 Community Listen Tour and Zone Blitz, including: The Northwest Project at the Fairbanks in Zone 1’s Grant Beach Neighborhood, the opening of The Dream Center in Zone 1’s Woodland Heights Neighborhood, the opening of Missouri Job Center North in Zone 1’s Midtown Neighborhood and more than 60 separate projects that helped to improve overall quality of life. (A full Zone Blitz series of reports will be issued by the City beginning in January 2018 as the 18-month blitz concludes and next steps are discussed).
The City has maintained momentum in building a diverse, resilient economy, including continued development downtown that included the development or redevelopment of Heer’s, Hotel Vandivort, Sky Eleven, Hotel Sterling and others. Over the past decade, the City has substantially improved relations with developers and continued to work on ways to make the community more “developer friendly.” In 2012, Springfield became the first city in the state to offer electronic plan review.
Springfield has also had continued growth in a diversified employment base. Talent recruitment and retention initiatives are largely successful because Springfield is simply a great place to live and work, and continuing to get better, according to Teresa Coyan, CoxHealth Director of Public Affairs and an active member The Network, a Chamber of Commerce-run young professionals group. “Greg Burris and his team have been highly engaged and advocates for talent recruitment and retention,” she said. “Greg has a way of encouraging people to work hard and dream big. Not give up. Celebrate what this community is and envision what it could be. That’s very appealing to people of all ages.”
In a new video by local talk show host Jeff Houghton, he shares the sentiment: “We sometimes believe this fallacy that there are places for dreams and that it’s probably far away from where you are now and so you go there to meet who you’re supposed to be. But maybe there is here, and who you are supposed to be is who you already are.” This is a recurrent theme among Springfield’s young professionals who have repeatedly stepped up to partner with the City in numerous ways to help cultivate a climate conducive to entrepreneurship and empowerment.
Burris included The Network among the many groups involved in FieldGuide 2030. And, at the request of the Downtown Council of Champions, Burris and Scott also created a set of “Millennial SWAT Teams” and deployed them into five “cool” cities that are attracting young talent. The idea was to bring back ideas and help be a voice in community discussions about Springfield’s future vision. Members of these teams have since been invited to present their observations and recommendations to various community groups eager to hear their vision for our community.
“There are lots of ways to love your city,” said Peter Kageyama, author of For the Love of Cities. “As City Manager, Greg was one of the best I have seen. But this opportunity allows Greg to focus on creating better, deeper relationships between citizens and their cities. This matchmaking program promises to help more people fall in love with Springfield, and that is a fantastic thing.” Kageyama featured Greg and the city’s storytelling focus in his most recent book, Love Where You Live: Creating Emotionally Engaging Places.
Citizen satisfaction scores soared under Burris’ leadership. The most recent survey (2014) showed that satisfaction increased in seven of the 12 major categories of City services that were rated from 2011. The major categories of City services that showed statistically significant increases in satisfaction were: effectiveness of city communication with the public (+4%), quality of the city’s stormwater management system (+5%), and location of the city’s drop-off recycling sites (+4%).
Overall citizen satisfaction in the City of Springfield is 15% higher than the Kansas/Missouri average and 12% higher the national average, according to surveyors, the independent research firm ETC Institute.
Cora Scott has worked closely with Burris throughout her six years on the City’s Leadership Team.
“Greg Burris is dedicated to excellence in every sense of the word. He tirelessly works for the good of everyone around him, both inside the City organization and in the greater community. He works harder than most people even realize, and in an environment where we must handle crisis and chaos at times, he maintains an environment of support and balance. He has the enviable ability to strongly use both sides of his brain – navigating complex business operations protecting $1.3 billion in community assets – and exercising incredible creativity and ingenuity,” she said. “And yes, he is as fun to work with as you think he is (I get that question all of the time). I owe him a debt of gratitude for giving me, my departmental team and the City team, the creative freedom to try new things, and for encouraging us to do things no other cities have ever done.”
With Scott and others, Burris has also encouraged the development of new and exciting downtown events, including the Springfield Jazz Festival (a recommendation from the Diversity and Global Perspectives chapter of Field Guide 2030) and the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival. “The City became involved in the festival after learning from citizen input of a strong desire to celebrate our heritage as the birthplace during a planning department effort to revitalize the College Street Corridor,” Scott said. “The festival has just exploded. We went from 4,000 participants to 53,000 in just four years.”
In the role of executing the policies and programs authorized by City Council, Burris has found himself in some challenging predicaments, but also ones that he calls “meaningful and important” and is admired and publicly recognized by current and former elected officials as a strong leader and good friend.
"Greg Burris and I became acquainted in 2000 while we were both members of Leadership Springfield's Class XVI. In the ensuing 17 years it has been my privilege to work with Greg in a variety of capacities at Missouri State University as well as the city of Springfield. The common elements in all of Greg's efforts are loyalty, customer service, excellence, innovation and hard work. Because of his leadership, Springfield is viewed as a state and national model in so many ways,” Mayor Ken McClure said.
"As Mayor, I am honored to work with Greg on a daily basis. I see first hand his commitment, passion and dedication to his work, often at the expense of quality family time with Betsy and Tori. The City Manager's position is frequently a thankless job, but I am so pleased that he is willing to consider continuing to serve our city. To my dear friend and colleague I say, 'well done.' You have the most sincere thanks of a grateful City Council and community. We wish for you every success."
Former Mayor Bob Stephens recalls the interesting times “surviving the urban chicken debate, smoking ban, e-Verify, Larry Rice’s Tent City, panhandling, and the sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI ordinance).”
“Greg came into city government as a non-politician, but with a strong understanding of systems and a big-picture perspective,” Stephens said. “These two qualities have allowed the City staff to work together as a team, focused on continual improvement and constituent service.
During the eight years that I was on Council, Greg led his staff through some interesting and difficult times. The Police-Fire Pension Plan was the first major issue we had to deal with, quickly followed by the e-Verify controversy, the smoking ban (twice), marijuana decriminalization, the SOGI ordinances and repeal, the Zone 1 focus, the jail situation, and the pit bull ordinance.
The City of Springfield earned a reputation around the state for dealing with its problems head-on and for developing some unique and innovative solutions. I give Greg credit for that reputation and, as he steps down in June, hope that we – as a community – never lose that reputation.”
The first time that former Mayor Jim O’Neal met Burris was in the late summer of 2008 at an ice cream social in Phelps Grove Park where the three finalists for City Manager were having a meet-and-greet. “I had not yet to decided to run for mayor, but was very interested in knowing who the City Manager would be, were that to become a reality,” O’Neal said. “It was readily apparent to me who stood out, and I was thrilled to learn of his hiring.”
“Greg is always fantastic to work with. He has a world class since of humor. He tends to elevate everyone around him, leads by example, always credits others and works harder than nearly anyone I’ve ever known. During his tenure, Springfield has moved forward in nearly every way we measure. Greg has been the catalyst for progress through collaboration and planning. I’ve always admired his certain knack that inspires others, makes hard work fun and produces great results.
I am very grateful to have worked with him. He always made me look better than I was and on more than one occasion kept me from getting my breeches hung on my own pitchfork. His family, career and service speak volumes to his character and abilities. I wish he and his wonderful family all the best as he continues to serve our community.”
At the time Burris was hired, former Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky was the only council member to vote against his hiring. She later had a change of heart about the computer programmer turned City Manager.
“I was very sorry to hear that Greg was leaving as City Manager. In my opinion, he has served the City well and gotten us through some very difficult situations. He was very instrumental in getting the Police/Fire Pension Tax passed which kept the Fund solvent, and kept us in the black during the recession years when many cities our size were looking at bankruptcy. He has been extraordinary in his emphasis on citizen involvement in government and his willingness to reach out to people at all levels. I think he has gone a long way to restoring confidence in city government,” Rushefsky said.
Springfield City Manager Greg Burris has resigned his role as City Manager effective June 30, 2018, and will likely transition to the role of Executive Director of the Give 5 Program, effective July 8, 2018. Give 5 is the city’s new program designed to make the Springfield-Greene County community the top destination in the nation for retirees to get engaged in meaningful volunteerism. City Council has encouraged further development of the program and is hopeful that Burris will consider remaining with the City to lead the program.
“We are not aware of any program like this anywhere else in the country,” Burris said. “It has the ability to be a game changer and a strong economic development tool for our community. In addition to helping retirees find their next purpose in life and connecting those highly skilled volunteers with non-profits in need, Give 5 also serves as a vehicle and next step in helping to address some of the issues uncovered during the Zone Blitz and Impacting Poverty initiatives.”
Burris approached City Council in August and announced his intention to step down effective Feb. 28, 2018, but City Council “rejected” his resignation and asked him to stay through June 30, 2018, in order to lead the City through the completion of the FY19 budget. Burris wanted to provide City Council with enough notice so they can conduct a successful search for his replacement and agreed to delay his transition until June 30, 2018.
City Council’s intention is to begin a search for a new city manager in January and have a selection made who can begin July 1, 2018. More information about the search process and timeline will be announced later.
“It feels like the right time to step aside and let someone else take our community to the next level. My goal, stated to the City Council members who hired me, has always been to leave this job as the most sought-after city manager position in the state. I hope that's the case and we attract an extraordinary pool of candidates eager to become part of this incredible team. We’ve created a healthy organizational culture centered around respect, innovation and customer service. Our community has a lot of momentum right now, and I think our progress on many fronts will help draw a lot of interest to this job,” Burris said.
“While I told my wife when I was hired that I would probably only do this for about five years, it's been nine, and it will be almost 10 by the time I transition to my new role. I am very proud of our team of employees and what we've accomplished during the past nine years. But of all the things we've done, I'm most proud of the fact that we didn't shy away from any problem and we took the biggest challenges head on. Working together, we ‘moved the needle’ on many of these issues and hopefully made Springfield a better place. And if I've done my job, they won't miss a beat as we transition to new leadership next year.”
Burris is a well-known and well-regarded leader in the region and has initiated significant positive change in the City of Springfield organization and in the community served by the local government’s 20-plus departments. His tireless work ethic and ability to bring teams of people together to proactively and successfully address difficult issues are characteristics that both he and the City have become known for over the course of his tenure.
He recently completed his ninth year as City Manager, a role that is described as the chief executive officer of the City. As City Manager, he is responsible for the overall operation of the City, for executing all policies and programs authorized by City Council, and providing general direction to the City’s Leadership Team. The City Manager has direct responsibility for approximately 2,300 full- and part-time employees, a $334 million annual budget, and $1.3 billion in assets. (A detailed list of the department heads that report to the City Manager is included below.)
Burris, Springfield’s 12th City Manager since the City Charter was enacted in 1953, was sworn into office on Sept. 15, 2008. When asked about his start in City government, he often shares the fact that this is the same date the stock market crashed, signaling the start of the worst recession in 50 years. Accepting it as a challenge, rather than feeling dismayed, Burris pressed forward, building a nationally recognized leadership team, who together with community support, addressed a $200-million shortfall in the Police-Fire Pension Fund, presented a balanced budget each year without borrowing or dipping into the City’s reserves and likely saved citizens $400 million by creatively addressing unfunded federal environmental mandates through a first-of-its-kind integrated plan for the environment.
Burris had to make tough choices immediately when he took the helm in 2008. The City tightened its belt, surviving the recession by instituting a hiring freeze that resulted in 200 vacant positions and together with what he describes as the “best leadership team in the country,” departments continued to “live within our means” as he said, while still providing high-quality services to Springfield’s citizens and visitors.
The City’s fiscal health has also substantially improved under Burris’ leadership. Moody’s, a bond rating agency that ranks the creditworthiness of borrowers, increased the City’s bond rating to Aa1 during the recession, a time when many cities faced downgraded ratings and subsequent financial challenges.
“The City’s financial position is expected to remain healthy over the near-term given its current satisfactory reserve levels which provide adequate cushion against fluctuating sales tax revenues and prudent fiscal management,” Moody’s reported.
The City’s Workers Compensation Fund balance also improved during Burris’ tenure, rising from being $5.9 million in debt in 2008, to a having a positive balance by the end of fiscal year 2012. Burris also oversaw establishment of organization-wide insurance coverage to better protect City assets.
Auditors look upon Springfield favorably, issuing all clean external audits, and the City has received the highest possible ratings in all eight external audits performed during Burris’ tenure. In addition, the Citizens Sales Tax Oversight Committee, created in a good faith effort to reassure citizens that the Police-Fire Pension Sales Tax (and subsequently, other City taxes) revenues and expenditures would be reviewed regularly by a highly skilled and experienced group of citizens has also delivered only positive ratings to City Council and the community. Burris would go on to create a couple of dozen citizen-driven task forces, councils and programs, including the influential and engaged Neighborhood Advisory Council with then Mayor Bob Stephens and Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky.
Across the country, pension shortfalls have resulted in numerous municipal bankruptcies, resulting in deplorable inner city conditions in some instances, and a significant flight of talent out of some of America’s previously strongest cities. The Wall Street Journal referenced Springfield’s success in addressing the issue in an in-depth series related to the matter, acknowledging the creative and note-worthy passage of a Police-Fire Pension Sales Tax. The sales tax was subsequently renewed in 2014 by a wide margin.
The City of Springfield fortunately did not face bankruptcy and is run efficiently within identified revenue streams while providing award-winning service that continues to help develop Springfield as a magnet for new jobs, people and industries. The City’s solid transportation infrastructure and culture of collaboration further seal the deal for companies looking to locate or relocate and ultimately make Springfield home. Springfield is a strong, mid-size city with enviable community support for infrastructure improvement (the City’s 1/4-cent capital improvements and 1/8-cent transportation sales taxes were both renewed in 2016 by more than 80% voter approval).
However, being heavily dependent upon sales tax revenue (more than 50% of the City’s general fund revenue comes from sales tax), Burris and his team have had to be shrewd when managing operations that depend heavily on such a volatile (and in some locations across the country, shrinking, due to competing online sales) primary revenue source.
“We are committed to living within our means, while continuing to provide superior levels of service. Our departments have done a remarkable job of that, based on citizen satisfaction scores and voter confidence in sales tax renewals,” Burris explained when the fiscal year 2018 budget was passed. “It’s clear, though, because of the volatility of sales tax, that a new funding model – and one that does not raise taxes – is needed.”
The recent Level Property Tax continuation proposal was an attempt to help identify a more stable revenue source for certain critical community needs: property tax. The Nov. 7 passage of the renewal without a sunset will not constitute a tax increase and will relieve some (but not all) of the pressure, particularly in the priority area of public safety. Voters overwhelmingly (75%) approved the continuation without a sunset provision, which will allow the additional use of this funding source for additional police officers and fire fighters, as well as capital projects like new and remodeled fire stations and life cycle replacement of police and fire vehicles. The City has not previously had a funding source for life cycle replacement of vehicles and equipment.
The passage of an additional 1/2-cent Greene County sales tax to help fund a jail expansion and much-needed crime-prevention initiatives to help address community mental health and substance abuse issues should also have a positive impact on the community’s ability to address crime and overall public safety. Burris and City leaders worked with County leaders for nearly two years to identify and develop recommendations – many of which will come to fruition now that additional funding is available for both the City and County.
"I was surprised to hear Greg's announcement, but I can understand his decision to step away,” said Police Chief Paul Williams. “Being at the helm of the City for 10 years with his level of commitment is all encompassing and can wear on you over time. I assure you that no one is more passionate about our community, and Greg infused all of us with his sense of pride and focus on making Springfield great. It is disappointing to see him leave the team that he built, but I am confident we are well positioned for the future. Although he was my boss, he was also a colleague and friend, and I wish him the best."
A dynamic leader not afraid to confront institutional norms or trigger controversy when needed, Burris rallied the City’s leaders, as well as community leaders, to “swing for the fences” on a variety of issues, in addition to addressing core concerns of public safety, economic vitality and fiscal sustainability.
“I'm proud of the extraordinary level of creativity and innovation that occurs within our teams. That doesn't occur by accident, and it doesn’t occur in every city. It happens when dedicated, talented people are challenged and then given the resources and freedom to find creative solutions. I'd put the quality of our Leadership Team up against any city in the country. The success of our teams and individuals is often recognized more within their national and international professional fields than known locally,” he said. “I believe the City of Springfield has been awarded more professional accreditations than any other city in the country.”
Burris has spent a lot of time with citizens of all ages, from all backgrounds, in various places, in an attempt to help Springfield “get better at getting better” as he has been known to say. His original “listening tour” in 2009 traversed from elementary schools to board rooms, as he gathered input for a communitywide strategic planning process known as Field Guide 2030. The ambitious project added six new chapters not included in past community plans. Since that first listening tour, he has also hired the community’s first director of civic engagement (Cora Scott) in 2012 to ensure citizens’ voices are heard and launched a targeted Community Listen Tour specifically in Springfield’s Zone 1 in 2015. The subsequent Zone Blitz initiative to address 11 target needs identified during the Community Listen Tour is still underway, with more than 300 community partners engaged. Burris also co-chaired the Impacting Poverty Commission, a 30-member body that researched the dimensions of poverty in Springfield for more than a year, made specific recommendations for action, and is working to implement those recommended actions via the Prosper Springfield initiative.
A surprising, but positive, turn of events through the efforts to address poverty, was the development of a meaningful relationship between the City and the community’s large number of faith-based institutions. As Burris and Scott began getting invited into area churches to discuss what church-goers could do to help the residents of Zone 1, an impromptu “church tour” ignited both interest and engagement.
Several high-profile, successful projects have sprung from the 2015 Community Listen Tour and Zone Blitz, including: The Northwest Project at the Fairbanks in Zone 1’s Grant Beach Neighborhood, the opening of The Dream Center in Zone 1’s Woodland Heights Neighborhood, the opening of Missouri Job Center North in Zone 1’s Midtown Neighborhood and more than 60 separate projects that helped to improve overall quality of life. (A full Zone Blitz series of reports will be issued by the City beginning in January 2018 as the 18-month blitz concludes and next steps are discussed).
The City has maintained momentum in building a diverse, resilient economy, including continued development downtown that included the development or redevelopment of Heer’s, Hotel Vandivort, Sky Eleven, Hotel Sterling and others. Over the past decade, the City has substantially improved relations with developers and continued to work on ways to make the community more “developer friendly.” In 2012, Springfield became the first city in the state to offer electronic plan review.
Springfield has also had continued growth in a diversified employment base. Talent recruitment and retention initiatives are largely successful because Springfield is simply a great place to live and work, and continuing to get better, according to Teresa Coyan, CoxHealth Director of Public Affairs and an active member The Network, a Chamber of Commerce-run young professionals group. “Greg Burris and his team have been highly engaged and advocates for talent recruitment and retention,” she said. “Greg has a way of encouraging people to work hard and dream big. Not give up. Celebrate what this community is and envision what it could be. That’s very appealing to people of all ages.”
In a new video by local talk show host Jeff Houghton, he shares the sentiment: “We sometimes believe this fallacy that there are places for dreams and that it’s probably far away from where you are now and so you go there to meet who you’re supposed to be. But maybe there is here, and who you are supposed to be is who you already are.” This is a recurrent theme among Springfield’s young professionals who have repeatedly stepped up to partner with the City in numerous ways to help cultivate a climate conducive to entrepreneurship and empowerment.
Burris included The Network among the many groups involved in FieldGuide 2030. And, at the request of the Downtown Council of Champions, Burris and Scott also created a set of “Millennial SWAT Teams” and deployed them into five “cool” cities that are attracting young talent. The idea was to bring back ideas and help be a voice in community discussions about Springfield’s future vision. Members of these teams have since been invited to present their observations and recommendations to various community groups eager to hear their vision for our community.
“There are lots of ways to love your city,” said Peter Kageyama, author of For the Love of Cities. “As City Manager, Greg was one of the best I have seen. But this opportunity allows Greg to focus on creating better, deeper relationships between citizens and their cities. This matchmaking program promises to help more people fall in love with Springfield, and that is a fantastic thing.” Kageyama featured Greg and the city’s storytelling focus in his most recent book, Love Where You Live: Creating Emotionally Engaging Places.
Citizen satisfaction scores soared under Burris’ leadership. The most recent survey (2014) showed that satisfaction increased in seven of the 12 major categories of City services that were rated from 2011. The major categories of City services that showed statistically significant increases in satisfaction were: effectiveness of city communication with the public (+4%), quality of the city’s stormwater management system (+5%), and location of the city’s drop-off recycling sites (+4%).
Overall citizen satisfaction in the City of Springfield is 15% higher than the Kansas/Missouri average and 12% higher the national average, according to surveyors, the independent research firm ETC Institute.
Cora Scott has worked closely with Burris throughout her six years on the City’s Leadership Team.
“Greg Burris is dedicated to excellence in every sense of the word. He tirelessly works for the good of everyone around him, both inside the City organization and in the greater community. He works harder than most people even realize, and in an environment where we must handle crisis and chaos at times, he maintains an environment of support and balance. He has the enviable ability to strongly use both sides of his brain – navigating complex business operations protecting $1.3 billion in community assets – and exercising incredible creativity and ingenuity,” she said. “And yes, he is as fun to work with as you think he is (I get that question all of the time). I owe him a debt of gratitude for giving me, my departmental team and the City team, the creative freedom to try new things, and for encouraging us to do things no other cities have ever done.”
With Scott and others, Burris has also encouraged the development of new and exciting downtown events, including the Springfield Jazz Festival (a recommendation from the Diversity and Global Perspectives chapter of Field Guide 2030) and the Birthplace of Route 66 Festival. “The City became involved in the festival after learning from citizen input of a strong desire to celebrate our heritage as the birthplace during a planning department effort to revitalize the College Street Corridor,” Scott said. “The festival has just exploded. We went from 4,000 participants to 53,000 in just four years.”
In the role of executing the policies and programs authorized by City Council, Burris has found himself in some challenging predicaments, but also ones that he calls “meaningful and important” and is admired and publicly recognized by current and former elected officials as a strong leader and good friend.
"Greg Burris and I became acquainted in 2000 while we were both members of Leadership Springfield's Class XVI. In the ensuing 17 years it has been my privilege to work with Greg in a variety of capacities at Missouri State University as well as the city of Springfield. The common elements in all of Greg's efforts are loyalty, customer service, excellence, innovation and hard work. Because of his leadership, Springfield is viewed as a state and national model in so many ways,” Mayor Ken McClure said.
"As Mayor, I am honored to work with Greg on a daily basis. I see first hand his commitment, passion and dedication to his work, often at the expense of quality family time with Betsy and Tori. The City Manager's position is frequently a thankless job, but I am so pleased that he is willing to consider continuing to serve our city. To my dear friend and colleague I say, 'well done.' You have the most sincere thanks of a grateful City Council and community. We wish for you every success."
Former Mayor Bob Stephens recalls the interesting times “surviving the urban chicken debate, smoking ban, e-Verify, Larry Rice’s Tent City, panhandling, and the sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI ordinance).”
“Greg came into city government as a non-politician, but with a strong understanding of systems and a big-picture perspective,” Stephens said. “These two qualities have allowed the City staff to work together as a team, focused on continual improvement and constituent service.
During the eight years that I was on Council, Greg led his staff through some interesting and difficult times. The Police-Fire Pension Plan was the first major issue we had to deal with, quickly followed by the e-Verify controversy, the smoking ban (twice), marijuana decriminalization, the SOGI ordinances and repeal, the Zone 1 focus, the jail situation, and the pit bull ordinance.
The City of Springfield earned a reputation around the state for dealing with its problems head-on and for developing some unique and innovative solutions. I give Greg credit for that reputation and, as he steps down in June, hope that we – as a community – never lose that reputation.”
The first time that former Mayor Jim O’Neal met Burris was in the late summer of 2008 at an ice cream social in Phelps Grove Park where the three finalists for City Manager were having a meet-and-greet. “I had not yet to decided to run for mayor, but was very interested in knowing who the City Manager would be, were that to become a reality,” O’Neal said. “It was readily apparent to me who stood out, and I was thrilled to learn of his hiring.”
“Greg is always fantastic to work with. He has a world class since of humor. He tends to elevate everyone around him, leads by example, always credits others and works harder than nearly anyone I’ve ever known. During his tenure, Springfield has moved forward in nearly every way we measure. Greg has been the catalyst for progress through collaboration and planning. I’ve always admired his certain knack that inspires others, makes hard work fun and produces great results.
I am very grateful to have worked with him. He always made me look better than I was and on more than one occasion kept me from getting my breeches hung on my own pitchfork. His family, career and service speak volumes to his character and abilities. I wish he and his wonderful family all the best as he continues to serve our community.”
At the time Burris was hired, former Councilwoman Cindy Rushefsky was the only council member to vote against his hiring. She later had a change of heart about the computer programmer turned City Manager.
“I was very sorry to hear that Greg was leaving as City Manager. In my opinion, he has served the City well and gotten us through some very difficult situations. He was very instrumental in getting the Police/Fire Pension Tax passed which kept the Fund solvent, and kept us in the black during the recession years when many cities our size were looking at bankruptcy. He has been extraordinary in his emphasis on citizen involvement in government and his willingness to reach out to people at all levels. I think he has gone a long way to restoring confidence in city government,” Rushefsky said.
Special Springfield City Council lunch meeting scheduled today
Special Springfield City Council Lunch Meeting
Tuesday, November 15, 2017 12:00 p.m.
Busch Municipal Building – Room L45 840 N. Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Annual HUD/CDBG Briefing – Brendan Griesemer
2. Any and all matters to come before the City Council
Tuesday, November 15, 2017 12:00 p.m.
Busch Municipal Building – Room L45 840 N. Boonville Avenue
TENTATIVE AGENDA
1. Annual HUD/CDBG Briefing – Brendan Griesemer
2. Any and all matters to come before the City Council
Springfield fugitive wanted for statutory rape
The Crime Stoppers Fugitive of the week is Kyle Hughes, Springfield. Hughes is wanted for a Parole Violation with an original offense of 2nd Degree Statutory Rape. He is a white male, 6’0, 170 lbs, with numerous tattoos. He could be clean shaven or wearing contacts. Note the distinct tattoo on his left cheek. Hughes is known to abuse drugs and be violent.
Please contact Crime Stoppers with any information about Hughes’ whereabouts. 417-869-TIPS or www.p3tips.com.
Sunday, November 12, 2017
Armed, dangerous Springfield man on the loose following shooting death
(From the Springfield Police Department)
Update
Springfield police officers responded to 1932 E. Verona at approximately 4:49 p.m. on Nov. 11 regarding a person who had been shot. When officers arrived, they found a deceased male victim with apparent gunshot wounds outside of 1932 E. Verona. The suspect had fled the scene prior to officers arriving. The victim was identified as Danny L. Dayton, 23, of Springfield. Next of kin notifications have been made for the victim.
Update
Update: Brandon Johnson was arrested by Webster County deputies today at approximately 8 p.m.
The suspect has been identified as Brandon M. Johnson, 20, of Springfield. Johnson has not been apprehended and should be considered armed and dangerous.
At this time, detectives continue to investigate the incident and are asking anyone who has information about this incident or the location of the suspect to contact the Springfield Police Department at (417) 864-1810 or make an anonymous call to CrimeStoppers at (417) 869-8477.
The victim's autopsy will be conducted by the Greene County Medical Examiner’s Office.
No further details are available for release at this time.
At this time, detectives continue to investigate the incident and are asking anyone who has information about this incident or the location of the suspect to contact the Springfield Police Department at (417) 864-1810 or make an anonymous call to CrimeStoppers at (417) 869-8477.
The victim's autopsy will be conducted by the Greene County Medical Examiner’s Office.
No further details are available for release at this time.
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Aurora man airlifted to Cox South following crash near Monett
An Aurora man was injured in a two-vehicle accident 3 p.m. Friday on Farm Road 1100, two miles southeast of Monett.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2015 Chevrolet 2500 pickup driven by Luke S. Dickens, 28, Galena, pulled from a stop sign and failed to yield. A 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse driven by Austin L. McCann, 29, Aurora, slammed into a trailer being towed by the Dickens vehicle.
McCann was airlifted to Cox South Hospital, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2015 Chevrolet 2500 pickup driven by Luke S. Dickens, 28, Galena, pulled from a stop sign and failed to yield. A 2001 Mitsubishi Eclipse driven by Austin L. McCann, 29, Aurora, slammed into a trailer being towed by the Dickens vehicle.
McCann was airlifted to Cox South Hospital, Springfield, to be treated for serious injuries.
Springfield man crashes into tree after swerving to avoid deer
A Springfield man was injured in a one-vehicle accident 7:30 p.m. Friday on Route H, six miles north of Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 GMC truck driven by Patrick H. Catron, 45, Springfield, swerved to miss a deer, traveled off the roadway, struck a tree and overturned, coming to rest on its passenger side.
Catron was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2004 GMC truck driven by Patrick H. Catron, 45, Springfield, swerved to miss a deer, traveled off the roadway, struck a tree and overturned, coming to rest on its passenger side.
Catron was treated for moderate injuries at Mercy Hospital, Springfield.
Friday, November 10, 2017
U. S. Bankruptcy Court Petitions- Springfield
Christian County
David Anthony Livsey and Patricia Cora Ann Livsey
Robert Edward King and Crystal Renee King
Cheryl Jean Vaughn
Michael Lane Dick and Denise Lynn Dick
Dallas County
James Michael Warren Jr., and Danielle Katherine Moore
Douglas County
Alissa Dawn Brown and Donnie Ray Brown, Jr.
Greene County
Marrietta Kay Fabro
Christopher Anthony James Martin
Edward Eugene Mahaffey and Pamela Sue Mahaffey
Dewayne Allen Holland
Emory Lee Myers and Tessa Lynn Myers
Jason Keith Trisler
Zachary V. Meyer
Jeffery Lane Hulland and Salena Katherine Hulland
Jason Richard DaCosta
Polk County
James Dale Robb and Naomi Branch Robb
Pulaski County
Donald Jay Keeney and Rebecca Lynn Keeney
Taney County
Veronika Alimova
Outback Development, LLC
Nathan Robert Wood
Texas County
Bridget Ann Click
Sharon Elaine Phillippi
Lonnie J. Moody
Webster County
Corey Lynn Bradley and Hannah Elizabeth Bradley
Melissa Ann Lipscomb
Wright County
Richard Edwin Howell Jr.
David Anthony Livsey and Patricia Cora Ann Livsey
Robert Edward King and Crystal Renee King
Cheryl Jean Vaughn
Michael Lane Dick and Denise Lynn Dick
Dallas County
James Michael Warren Jr., and Danielle Katherine Moore
Douglas County
Alissa Dawn Brown and Donnie Ray Brown, Jr.
Greene County
Marrietta Kay Fabro
Christopher Anthony James Martin
Edward Eugene Mahaffey and Pamela Sue Mahaffey
Dewayne Allen Holland
Emory Lee Myers and Tessa Lynn Myers
Jason Keith Trisler
Zachary V. Meyer
Jeffery Lane Hulland and Salena Katherine Hulland
Jason Richard DaCosta
Polk County
James Dale Robb and Naomi Branch Robb
Pulaski County
Donald Jay Keeney and Rebecca Lynn Keeney
Taney County
Veronika Alimova
Outback Development, LLC
Nathan Robert Wood
Texas County
Bridget Ann Click
Sharon Elaine Phillippi
Lonnie J. Moody
Webster County
Corey Lynn Bradley and Hannah Elizabeth Bradley
Melissa Ann Lipscomb
Wright County
Richard Edwin Howell Jr.
Ozark Burger King arrests result in seizure of marijuana, cocaine, handguns, AK47 rifle
(From the Ozark Police Department)
On November 8, 2017, at approximately 7:13 p.m., the Ozark Police Department responded to a call for service at Burger King (1699 W. Jackson Street) for reported drug activity. The caller believed the occupants of a silver Chevrolet Impala were smoking marijuana with a small child in the vehicle.
When officers Christopher Schwartz and Marco Cabrales arrived on scene, they contacted Kane Tanski (24), Carlos Santiago (28), and Betsy Jones (27), in the described vehicle parked near the business; two young children were also located in the vehicle.
On November 8, 2017, at approximately 7:13 p.m., the Ozark Police Department responded to a call for service at Burger King (1699 W. Jackson Street) for reported drug activity. The caller believed the occupants of a silver Chevrolet Impala were smoking marijuana with a small child in the vehicle.
When officers Christopher Schwartz and Marco Cabrales arrived on scene, they contacted Kane Tanski (24), Carlos Santiago (28), and Betsy Jones (27), in the described vehicle parked near the business; two young children were also located in the vehicle.
An investigation into the reported drug activity resulted in the seizure of approximately three pounds of marijuana, a quarter pound of cocaine, three handguns, and an AK47 style rifle.
Based on the investigation, Officers Schwartz and Cabrales arrested Kane Tanski, Carlos Santiago, and Betsy Jones for Delivery of a Controlled Substance and Unlawful Use of a Weapon. All three suspects were taken into custody without incident and placed on 24-hour holds. Probable cause statements were submitted to the Christian County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office on November 9th, 2017.
Arrested:
Kane Tanski (24) B/M
1500 block W. Warren Avenue
Ozark, MO 65721
Carlos Santiago (28) H/M
3800 block Station Avenue
Ashtabula, Ohio 44004
Betsy Jones W/F
1500 block W. Warren Avenue
Ozark, MO 65721
Arrested:
Kane Tanski (24) B/M
1500 block W. Warren Avenue
Ozark, MO 65721
Carlos Santiago (28) H/M
3800 block Station Avenue
Ashtabula, Ohio 44004
Betsy Jones W/F
1500 block W. Warren Avenue
Ozark, MO 65721
Thursday, November 9, 2017
Agenda posted for Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau Board meeting
Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau, Inc., Board of Directors will meet at 8:00
a.m. Thursday, November 16, 2017 at the Route 66 Visitor Information Center, 815 E.
St. Louis St., Springfield, MO.
1. Approval of October Meeting Minutes
2. Chairman's Report
3. October Financial Report
4. Chamber Visioning Committee Presentation
5. Legislative Agenda
6. Strategic Plan
7. Annual Banquet
8. City of Springfield Report
9. Staff Reports
10. Old or New Business
1. Approval of October Meeting Minutes
2. Chairman's Report
3. October Financial Report
4. Chamber Visioning Committee Presentation
5. Legislative Agenda
6. Strategic Plan
7. Annual Banquet
8. City of Springfield Report
9. Staff Reports
10. Old or New Business
Agenda posted for Springfield/Branson National Airport Board meeting
SPRINGFIELD/BRANSON NATIONAL AIRPORT BOARD MEETING/RETREAT
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017, 8:00 A.M.
LAKE SPRINGFIELD PARK BOATHOUSE AND MARINA
5324 S KISSICK AVENUE, SPRINGFIELD, MO 65804
Topic Lead
1. Welcome / Retreat Objectives Brady
a. Consent Agenda - October Statistical
b. Approval of Minutes-October 19, 2017
2. Review of Past Year Accomplishments Weiler
3. Airport Issues to be Discussed
a. Air Service Update Boyd
b. Airport Financial Update Bork
c. Status of Restaurant Expansion Fulp/Schaumburg
d. Proposal for Solar Farm Weiler
4. Review / Prioritize Business Plan Recommendations
a. Financial Policy / Goals Bork
b. Revamp Statistical Summary Bork
c. Governance Structure Anderson/Weiler
d. Operational Efficiencies Schaumburg
e. Terminal Advertising Agreement Boyd
5. Any and all other items Board
6. Lunch served at noon
7. Adjourn (anticipate 1:00 p.m.)
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2017, 8:00 A.M.
LAKE SPRINGFIELD PARK BOATHOUSE AND MARINA
5324 S KISSICK AVENUE, SPRINGFIELD, MO 65804
Topic Lead
1. Welcome / Retreat Objectives Brady
a. Consent Agenda - October Statistical
b. Approval of Minutes-October 19, 2017
2. Review of Past Year Accomplishments Weiler
3. Airport Issues to be Discussed
a. Air Service Update Boyd
b. Airport Financial Update Bork
c. Status of Restaurant Expansion Fulp/Schaumburg
d. Proposal for Solar Farm Weiler
4. Review / Prioritize Business Plan Recommendations
a. Financial Policy / Goals Bork
b. Revamp Statistical Summary Bork
c. Governance Structure Anderson/Weiler
d. Operational Efficiencies Schaumburg
e. Terminal Advertising Agreement Boyd
5. Any and all other items Board
6. Lunch served at noon
7. Adjourn (anticipate 1:00 p.m.)
Greene County Sheriff hunting Springfield man on burglary, assault charges
Have you seen Joshua Wade Mathis? Let's work together to make sure Mathis doesn't break into any more homes or assault anyone?
Help us share and let's make Mathis Facebook famous.
Springfield teen injured in collision with school bus
A Springfield teen was injured in a two-vehicle collision with a school bus 7:30 a.m. today on Route YY, two miles east of Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by Levi E. Graham, 16, Springfield, pulled into the path of a 2014 International school bus driven by Christina K. Romaniak, 43, Springfield.
Graham was treated for moderate injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.
According to the Highway Patrol report, a 2002 Toyota Camry driven by Levi E. Graham, 16, Springfield, pulled into the path of a 2014 International school bus driven by Christina K. Romaniak, 43, Springfield.
Graham was treated for moderate injuries at Cox South Hospital, Springfield.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
Northbound lane of Boonville between Chestnut Expressway and Central Street to close
(From the City of Springfield)
Public Works will close the northbound lane of Boonville Avenue between Chestnut Expressway and Central Street beginning 10 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 for maintenance of the holiday lights on Historic City Hall.
Public Works will close the northbound lane of Boonville Avenue between Chestnut Expressway and Central Street beginning 10 a.m. through 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 9 for maintenance of the holiday lights on Historic City Hall.
Drivers are asked to use an alternate route during this time.
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