SGFers voted Tuesday to ban smoking in public places.

The Results

Ban alcohol sales in “family-oriented” movie theaters?
Yes — 51.7% (10,831)
No — 48.3% (10,115)
Only immediately affects Campbell 16 … The Moxie sells beer and wine, but is nonprofit and sells less than 25% of tickets to minors, both exceptions to the ban.

Ban smoking in public places?
Yes — 53.4% (11,201)
No — 46.6% (9,765)

From the city:Engineers from the City of Springfield’s Department of Public Works will hold two meetings in the coming week about the City’s plan to build a new pedestrian bridge spanning Kearney Street near Ed V. Williams Elementary School.

The first meeting is a school assembly for students at Williams Elementary. Engineer Stacy Bergman will talk to the students about the work that engineers do for the community and update them on the progress of plans for the new bridge outside their school. He will also talk about ways in which Public Works would like the students to get involved in process.

The assembly will be held at 1:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 25, 2011, in the auditorium at Williams Elementary, 2055 W. Kearney St. It is not a public meeting, but media may attend. If a media outlet would like to attend, please contact Teresa Bledsoe with Springfield Public Schools in advance at 268-7580.

A formal public meeting will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 1, 2011, at the Williams Elementary School cafeteria. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss plans for the proposed bridge and gather input from the public on the project.

The new bridge will replace the bridge that was removed from this location in November 2010 after the bridge deck shifted. A subsequent engineering analysis revealed that long-term exposure to moisture had weakened a wooden beam supporting the 30-year-old bridge. The bridge’s design prevented engineers from fully viewing and inspecting the structure while the bridge was in place.

The new bridge is likely to be in place by this fall, though bids for construction have not yet been taken. The bridge will be compliant with ADA requirements, and several new parking spaces for parents to pick up students are proposed for Roosevelt Avenue on the south side of the bridge.

Get out and vote.

From Greene County: Greene County Clerk Richard Struckhoff has rescheduled next week’s Springfield City Council Primary Electionto Tuesday, Feb. 22, 2011, as directed in a court order issued today by the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District.

State law (RSMo. 115.024) allows the county clerk to petition a panel of judges from the Court of Appeals to reschedule or relocate an election due to disaster. Struckhoff cited weather-related concerns over voter access and safety at Springfield polling places in his petition to reschedule the election.

“Several polling places are still blocked by snow from this week’s blizzard, and with more snow in the forecast, I can’t insure these polling places would be safe and accessible by next week,” said Struckhoff.

Absentee ballots already cast for the Feb. 8 Primary Election will now be counted on Feb. 22.

With the unanimous support of Springfield City Council, Struckhoff had originally petitioned the court to cancel the Feb. 8 election and place the two primary races on the April 5 General Election ballot. The court rejected Struckhoff’s request to cancel, but agreed to reschedule the election to Feb. 22.

The Primary Election ballot includes two Springfield City Council races: General Seat C, representing the whole city, and the Zone 3 seat, representing southwest Springfield. Only Springfield residents are eligible to vote in this Primary Election.

The Greene County Clerk’s Office is contacting poll workers scheduled to work on Feb. 8 with new election staffing instructions

View RSMo. 115.024

A sample ballot for the Primary Election

SGF's Discovery Center has a 2011 running theme of health.

Press release from the Discovery Center: Traveling exhibits are back at Discovery Center of Springfield. Partnering with Mercy/St. John’s 2011 has been designated as a year of “Balancing Brains and Bodies.” This year long focus on health has begun in January with the start of Zumba classes in the Discovery Center auditorium, opening this traveling exhibit and partnering with Jump Mania for field trip opportunities for K-6th grade. Mercy/St. John’s staff intend to provide workshops and demonstrations throughout the year to complement the year of Health. February 10, 2011 join us for Science Behind Presents…The Cupid Connection: Can Food Affect Your Mood? Keep Discovery Center at the top of your list for adult and family activities that will keep your brains and bodies going for the entire year.

Zumba Classes at DCS

Zumba Classes are being held Mondays and Wednesdays from 5:45-6:45pm in Discovery Center’s auditorium. Lead by Certified Zumba Instructor, Debbie Skidmore. Each session is $2.00 and will be the entire year of 2011.

Science Mania with Jump Mania

Discovery Center is partnering with Jump Mania to bring you educational science workshops that will help “jump start” both science and physical fitness experiences for students. This partnership will allow teachers and group leaders to build a field trip for Pre-K – 6th grade students that combines educational value with exercise. A variety of 30 minute science or culture programs and package options are available, all can be combined with Jump Mania time.

Science Behind Presents…The Cupid Connection: Can Food Affect Your Mood? – Thursday, February 10, 2011 – 6-9pm. Is food sexy, comforting, soothing, quenching? Join Melinda Lund, MS RD Medical Nutrition Therapist at St. John’s as we taste and talk about how food affects your mood. Registration is $20 per person. Space is limited.

Every Body Eats Traveling Exhibit

Grand Opening Saturday, January 29, 2011
Is breakfast that important? Are you eating enough fruits and vegetables? What does a healthy serving size look like? Visitors reflect on these questions and more in Every Body Eats, a highly interactive science exhibit. The 800-square-foot, hands-on exhibit appeals to children and their families and features text in English and Spanish.

Every Body Eats explores the fascinating world of nutrition and teaches people the science of making healthy food choices. Visitors learn what ingredients are in various foods, how to read nutrition labels, how many servings of fruits and vegetables are recommended each day, and what an appropriate serving size looks like.

Every Body Eats features 12 interactive areas, including “Shaking the Salt Habit,” “Veggie Power,” “Supermarket Nutrition,” and a kid-friendly “Dinner Theater,” with plenty of hand puppets for youngsters to act out mealtime scenarios.

Every Body Eats is both entertaining and educational. In the “Hunger Signals” area, an interactive computer uses cartoons to posit a situation and then asks the visitor if the cartoon character should eat in that particular circumstance. A “hunger meter” and “feeling meter” help the visitor make her or his decision. The “Advertising Detectives” display reveals the tricks that food marketers use to manipulate consumers into buying products. And the “Reading Labels” exhibit can surprise even a savvy consumer.

At the eye-opening “Sizing Up Servings” area, visitors are challenged to match recommended serving sizes to everyday objects. “Fuel for Your Body” has visitors choose from a variety of breakfast foods to fuel a “car”-an analogy for the body-and then race the cars against each other. Each car moves forward a certain distance depending on the person’s food choices.

By the end of Every Body Eats, visitors realize that healthy choices are within their reach.

Every Body Eats is locally sponsored by Mercy/St. John’s. Every Body Eats was produced and is toured by the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in Portland, Ore. The exhibit was made possible by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA) grant from the National Center for Research Resources (NCRR), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

After an office party like that, you’ve surely got the Christmas spirit. You haven’t even opened gifts yet, but you should know how to dispose of the tree dying in the corner of the living room. Christmas trees are not accepted at Missouri landfills, according to the Department of Public Works Solid Waste Division. No worries, there are a handful of spots around town to have the ol’ Tanenbaum recycled. If you are familiar with other locations to recycle your tree leave the information in comments or email Brett@TAGsgf.com. Thanks.

BASS PRO SHOPS

Bass Pro will accept trees at the fenced area at the northwest end of the Bass Pro Shops parking lot directly behind the store at 1935 S. Campbell Ave.

Dates accepted: Dec. 26-Jan. 1
Hours: Noon to 6 p.m. daily
Fee: $2 per tree; benefitting the Boy Scouts
Uses: Trees are used for fish habitat
Special Instructions: Remove all icicles, ornaments, tree stand and no flocked trees accepted.
For more information, contact: Larry Whiteley, 873-5022.

WICKMAN’S

Wickman’s will accept trees at 1345 S. Fort Ave., in Springfield, and at 10791 U.S. 60 in Monett.

Dates accepted: Dec. 26-Jan. 13
Hours: In Springfield — 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. In Monett — 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday; 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
Fee: $5 at both locations; proceeds donated to The Kitchen
Uses: Trees will be ground into wood chip mulch, which is available for free. Bring your own container.
Special instructions: Remove all icicles, ornaments, tree stand and no flocked trees accepted.

For more information, contact: 862-3707 (Springfield); or 235-1112 (Monett) or visit: www.wickmans.com

CITY OF SPRINGFIELD YARDWASTE RECYCLING CENTER

The YRC will accept Christmas trees.

Directions: West on Sunshine (U.S. 60); south of Farm Road 115. Turn left on Farm Road 164. Follow signs to Yardwaste Recycling Center.
Dates accepted: Year round. The Center will be closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.
Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday-Saturday; closed Sundays and Mondays.
Fees: Donations are accepted; the brush recycling fee of $3 will be waived for Christmas trees through Jan. 29, 2011; otherwise, the $3 gate fee will apply. Existing commercial fees will apply to commercial loads, including Christmas trees.
Special instructions: Remove all icicles, ornaments and tree stand.
Note: Trees are not accepted at the Franklin and Lone Pine recycling centers.

For more information, contact: Recycling Hotline, 864-1904; or visit: www.springfieldmo.gov/recycling

From the city:The City Clerk’s Office has finalized certification of signatures for an initiative petition to prohibit “family oriented” movie theaters from serving alcohol.

Springfield’s last April general election was held in 2009. The City Clerk uses the race with the highest number of total votes. In this case, it was the mayoral race, which garnered a total of 11,809 votes cast. Ten percent, rounded up to the nearest whole number, is 1,181. Signatures must be those of registered voters living within Springfield city limits. Signatures are certified by the City Clerk’s office.

The proposed ordinance originated with the Springfield DWI Task Force, which is an independent advocacy group, and is not a standing board or commission created by the City of Springfield.

The rules for an initiative petition are outlined under section 14.1 of the City Charter, which states: “The electors shall have power to propose any ordinance, except an ordinance appropriating money and to adopt or reject the same at the polls, such power being known as the initiative. Any initiated ordinance may be submitted to the council by a petition signed by qualified electors of the City equal in number to at least ten percent of the total number of persons voting at the last general municipal election in April.”

The petition needed 1,181 valid signatures in order to be certified. As of Dec. 22, 1,184 valid signatures were verified. Under the rules established by the City Charter, City Council now has 30 days to either adopt the proposal as an ordinance or place it on the ballot for the April 5, 2011, municipal election.

It is anticipated that City Council will take public comment on the proposed ordinance at its Jan. 10, 2011 meeting,with final action taken by its Jan. 24 meeting.

Since the recent announcement that SGF landmark Gillioz Theatre is about to begin foreclosure proceedings the downtown venue’s staff has feverishly pushed to raise money through private donations to start paying back the $1 million the facility owes in bank loans. In a little more than a week the Gillioz has received almost $100,000 in donations toward its $500,000 goal, and now its next-door neighbor is pitching in with an event of its own.

Next Tuesday, December 28, Big Whiskey’s American Bar & Grill (311 Park Central East) will host a “Save the Gillioz” night, in which a portion of all the day’s proceeds will go toward the Save the Gillioz Fund established through Community Foundation of the Ozarks. It’s a shrewd choice of nights by Big Whiskey’s, given that December 28 is also the night of the Insight Bowl pitting Missouri against Iowa in college football, a game sure to draw a large, money-spending crowd.

Of course, if you can’t make it to the bar on a Tuesday you can always go directly to CFO’s donation site and give to the fund that way; just be sure to specify “Save the Gillioz” in the “Fund/Program” field so it goes to the right place. The first 100 donations of $2,500 or more even get their own free rental of the Gillioz for a night. Hopefully all of that will make sure it’s still there to be rented when the time comes.

Park Central Square under construction

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 5

In February, SGF’s Park Central Square was recognized nationally as a historic landmark. On Friday, the city held a brick-pulling event and today a construction crew circled the square with lengths of fence to signal the beginning of its overhaul (ahem, beautification). According to a release from the city, the new design will increase foot traffic (and aesthetics) of the once vibrant square. Construction is expected to last a year.

From the city: The (brick pulling marked) the beginning of a yearlong project to restore the inner Square to the design originally intended by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin and his team in the early 1970s.

The renovated design will be more open and inviting to pedestrians and will mesh with the pedestrian-friendly design of the improved streetscape surrounding the Square, which was completed last fall. The project includes the removal of non-historical additions that weren’t intended by Halprin & Associates, plus the replacement of elements that have been lost during the last four decades. Select new infrastructure additions will bring the space into the modern age, including improved lighting and greater accessibility for all. The new additions will be incorporated in a historically sensitive way, and have been approved by the Missouri State Historic Preservation Office. The project will restore what was, in Halprin’s words, “an active space for public assembly, devoted to pedestrians and their needs and comforts.”

Even before it was remade by one of America’s premiere modern landscape architects, Springfield’s town square was the site of numerous historical episodes including the shootout between “Wild” Bill Hickok and Dave Tutt in 1865, the Trail of Tears, the Butterfield Overland Stage route, and Route 66. Throughout much of the 20th century it was the heart of commerce and shopping in southwest Missouri. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in February of this year.

Aged and worn pavers in the center of the Square will be replaced, as will seating blocks that were removed many years ago. The fountain, a centerpiece of the Halprin design, will be fully refurbished and equipped with modern, energy-efficient components. Several trees planted in the years since the original design will be removed. However, many more trees that were intended in the original design will be planted. When the project is complete, there will be twice as many trees in Park Central Square as there are today.

The $1.78 million project will be completed with at least $1.2 million from a Department of Housing and Urban Development Economic Development Initiative grant. The remainder will be paid for by the voter-approved ¼-cent Sales Tax for Capital Improvements. The general contractor is Carson-Mitchell, Inc. Plans were prepared by Butler-Rosenbury & Partners, Inc.

From the city: The Springfield Department of Public Works is pleased to announce that the Campbell Avenue bridge over Fassnight Creek between Sunshine Street and Grand Street will be re-opened ahead of schedule by 6 a.m., Monday, Nov. 8, weather permitting.

The new bridge, designed to safely pass a 100-year flood, has approximately three times the water-carrying capacity of the old bridge. Other features include accommodation of the developing Fassnight Greenway Trail and an arched appearance with stonework to preserve the architectural character of the adjacent historic Fassnight Park.

The contractor is Hartman and Company. The Main Avenue bridge located within Fassnight Park is currently being reconstructed, and the Grant Avenue bridge will also be reconstructed. In the coming weeks, Meadowmere Street will be closed for approximately two weeks and Grant Avenue will be closed for approximately four months. The public will be informed of the exact dates once they are confirmed. Look for project updates and photos online at: www.springfieldmo.gov/stormwater/fassnightpark.html.

Completion of the bridge marks the first major milestone in the Fassnight Park Waterway Improvement Project. The multi-purpose project includes reconstruction of the channel and bridges to reduce flooding, provide water quality benefits and maintain the historical appearance of the park. The full project is anticipated to be complete by August 2011. The estimated cost is $4.5 million, paid for by the 2006 County-wide Parks Sales Tax, an EPA Stormwater Infrastructure Grant and a Federal Transportation Enhancement Grant.

The Fassnight project is the first in a series of major improvement projects that will reconstruct and revive several of Springfield’s historic parks with particular attention being paid to the special water resources that were originally at the heart of many of our parks. This series of projects will highlight the fact that water resources in Springfield are one of our most valuable and popular natural assets that deserve to be protected and enjoyed for generations to come.

Sequiota Park is the next historic park scheduled to undergo such improvements. A groundbreaking ceremony for those improvements will be held at 4:30 p.m., Monday, Nov. 8, with tours for the public available before and after the event. More details of that event are forthcoming.

From the city: In anticipation of the fall leaf season, the City’s Yardwaste Recycling Center (YRC), and Lone Pine Recycling Center will be open from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday afternoons from Nov. 7 through Dec. 5.

Also, winter hours for the YRC and the Lone Pine and Franklin Avenue Recycling Centers will begin Tuesday, Nov. 9, 2010, until March 14, 2011 – the first Tuesday after the end of Daylight Savings Time. These facilities will be open to accept yardwaste and brush from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. They are closed Mondays.

Winter loading hours for mulch and compost products at the YRC will be from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily, Tuesday through Saturday, and from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday. Please call the Recycling Hotline at 864-1904 for current availability of these products.

Residents are reminded that City ordinances prohibit the dumping of leaves and yardwaste into streets and waterways, including street gutters. Several alternatives are available for environmentally responsible leaf disposal: mulching leaves, proper backyard composting, and using the City’s Yardwaste Recycling Center (YRC) facilities and services.

Directions to the Yardwaste Recycling Center: go west on Sunshine (U.S. 60). Turn left (south) on to Farm Road ll5. Turn left (east) onto Farm Road l64. Follow signs to the (YRC). Access is also available by going west on James River Freeway to Sunshine (U.S. 60), turning right (east) onto Sunshine. Turn right (south) onto Farm Road ll5, turning left (east) onto Farm Road l64. Follow the signs to the (YRC). Leaves are accepted free of charge from City residents. Honor system fees in the amount of 50 cents per bag of leaves apply to non-residents. Brush is accepted from Springfield/Greene County residents with a $3 per vehicle fee. The revenue from the fees, donations and product sales help offset the cost of operating the YRC.

The Lone Pine Avenue Recycling Center (3020 S. Lone Pine Ave., one block south of Battlefield Road and Lone Pine) accepts limited quantities of leaves and yardwaste. Honor system fees in the amount of 50 cents per bag of leaves from City residents and $l per bag from non-residents are necessary to pay the cost of transporting the yardwaste to the Yardwaste Recycling Center. The honor system fees help to ensure that the City can continue to provide the yardwaste services at these facilities.

To shorten waiting time and ease traffic volume, residents using the Lone Pine Avenue Recycling Center during the busy fall leaf season are encouraged to arrive with materials separated. Also, vehicles pulling trailers should be taken to either the Franklin Avenue Recycling Center (not open on Sundays) or to the Yardwaste Recycling Center. Commercially generated yardwaste is not accepted at either of the Franklin or Lone Pine Recycling Centers. It is accepted only at the Yardwaste Recycling Center.

For more information about the City’s yardwaste recycling services, including hours of operation, materials and quantities accepted, fees/donations, please call the City of Springfield’s Recycling Hotline at 864-1904 or visit the City Web site at www.springfieldmogov/recycling. Information also is available on backyard composting, mulching and use of compost and mulching materials.

Commons at Jordan Valley Entrance (Nat'l & Tfwy)

◄ Back

Next ►

Picture 1 of 11

Photos by Alex Stocksdale

SGF Mayor Jim O'Neal speaks to a large crowd at the ribbon cutting for the Commons at Jordan Valley.

The site, of course used to be the quarry. For years, SGFers rumored what could be found in that giant glowing pool of abandon. We don’t know what lies below, and according to a press release from the city, the space was used frequently as a burial of sorts for trees with Dutch Elm disease. As a result, there’s a bit of methane reaching the surface.

A flare system has been installed to help mitigate methane gas … The amount of methane is relatively small, but is still significant enough to warrant the flame.

The project was funded through a Department of Housing and Urban Development Economic Development Initiative grant, secured by Congressman Roy Blunt. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources provided funding and technical oversight for the design and implementation the methane mitigation system.

There are plenty of reminders as you drive around that it’s election time. Signs are staked into the ground and the lines are drawn in the sand. As always there are big issues on the ballot. You may be a crunch-time voter. That’s OK, but be prepared. We’re not great with legalese, but have broken down what each issue is and what your vote means. TAGsgf.com is not here to tell you about who to vote for, but we will tell what your vote means on the non-candidate section of the ballot. Judges get no shine, and they make a lot of decisions. Educate yourself on them as well. The Missouri Bar has judged the judges.

No matter what, don’t forget. Write it down right now. Next Tuesday (Nov. 2) – cast your vote.

Take a look at the official Greene County ballot.

Amendments

Amendment 1: Missouri Election of Charter County Assessor

Would require assessors in charter counties to be elected

How it reads:

Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require the office of county assessor to be an elected position in all counties with a charter form of government, except counties with a population between 600,001-699,999?

It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.

What your vote means:

Yes: If passed, county assessors must be elected officers (in charter counties). This would only (currently) affect St. Louis County and any county that adopts a charter form of government. The exception is for a county that has between 600,001-699,999 residents, which currently is only Jackson County – Kansas City.

If passed, this measure will not have an impact on taxes.

No: There would be no change to charter county requirements.

Amendment 2: Property Tax Exemption for Disabled Former Prisoners of War

Would exempt former prisoners of war with service-related disability from property taxes

How it reads:

Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?

The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200.

What your vote means:

Yes: Former prisoners of war who are Missouri citizens with a service-related disability would be exempt from property taxes.

If passed, this measure will decrease property taxes for qualified citizens.

No: Exemption would not be added to the Missouri Constitution.

Amendment 3: Missouri Real Estate Taxation

Prohibit taxes for the sale/transfer of homes or any other real estate
How it reads:

Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?

It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.

What your vote means:

Yes: The Missouri Constitution would prevent state and county government to impose any new tax – including a sales tax – on the sale or transfer of homes and real estate.

No: No change to Missouri Constitution.

Propositions

Proposition A: Missouri Earnings Tax Initiative

Amendments to cities currently earnings taxes

How it reads:

Shall Missouri law be amended to:

• repeal the authority of certain cities to use earnings taxes to fund their budgets
• require voters in cities that currently have an earnings tax to approve continuation of such tax at the next general municipal election and at an election held every 5 years thereafter
• require any current earnings tax that is not approved by the voters to be phased out over a period of 10 years
• prohibit any city from adding a new earnings tax to fund their budget?

The proposal could eliminate certain city earnings taxes. For 2010, Kansas City and the City of St. Louis budgeted earnings tax revenue of $199.2 million and $141.2 million, respectively. Reduced earnings tax deductions could increase state revenues by $4.8 million. The total cost or savings to state and local governmental entities is unknown.

What your vote means:

Yes: Missouri law would be changed so certain cities (Kansas City and St. Louis) could not use earnings taxes to fund budgets.

No: No change to the current Missouri law.

Proposition B: Missouri Dog Breeding Regulation Initiative

Adopt new rules for breeders in the state
How it reads:

Shall Missouri law be amended to:

• require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles
• prohibit any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets
• create a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations?

It is estimated state governmental entities will incur costs of $654,768 (on-going costs of $521,356 and one-time costs of $133,412). Some local governmental entities may experience costs related to enforcement activities and savings related to reduced animal care activities.

What your vote means:

Yes: Large-scale breeders will be required to keep each dog under care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles. The amendment further prohibits any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets. The amendment also creates a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations.

If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

No: No changes to current Missouri law regarding dog breeders.

From the city: Following City Council’s approval of an urban chicken ordinance on Oct. 4, the City would like to remind residents of rules laid out in the ordinance, as well as procedures to follow in the case of stray or deceased fowl.

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department will be responsible for enforcing the ordinance related to the animals themselves, including the number of birds, at-large animals, odors and abuse or neglect. Animal impoundment requirements are the same as that for cats and dogs. Impoundment fees are $31 for the first day, plus $10 each day or partial day thereafter. Shelter fees are required at time of pickup. Payment can be in cash, with debit card or with credit card. No coins, please. Applicable tickets will be issued at time of pickup.

There is a $20 fee for any animal dropped off at the Springfield-Greene County Health Department Animal Shelter. If a citizen is in possession of a stray chicken, Animal Control officers will come pick up the chicken for free, but they will not search for reported strays. Chicken carcasses may be discarded as trash.

The City’s Building Development Services Department will be responsible for enforcing the ordinance related to requirements for chicken enclosures and distances. BDS also will investigate reports of roosters or other fowl.

The number to call for complaints is the City’s main service request line at (417) 864-1010.

The Health Department has posted links on its website to a number of resources for those interested in establishing a safe residential chicken flock. The information comes from the University of Missouri Extension, and includes articles on disease prevention, egg safety, and managing a flock. Visit www.springfieldmo.gov/health for more information.

The new rules addressing the keeping of urban chickens are found under subsection 1-1331 of the Zoning Ordinance and under section 18-24 of the City Code. Highlights of the new rules include:

* Six hens is the maximum number allowed per tract of land regardless of the number of dwelling units.

* No roosters.

* No breeding or fertilizer production for commercial purposes.

* No at-large (free roaming) chickens allowed. Must be kept in an enclosure or fenced area at all times. Chickens shall be secured in a henhouse or chicken tractor during non-daylight hours.

* Enclosures must be kept in a clean, dry, odor-free, neat and sanitary condition at all times so as not to cause odor or noise problems with neighbors. Enforcement is complaint-based.

* Enclosures must be located no closer than three feet from property line and at least 25 feet from another residence or business.

* Enclosures must provide adequate ventilation and adequate sun and shade and must be impermeable to rodents, wild birds and predators, including dogs and cats.

* Enclosures shall only be located to the rear of the dwelling or other main structure and may be located in the rear yard as required by the zoning code.

* The chicken owner shall take necessary action to reduce the attraction of predators and rodents and the potential infestation of insects and parasites.

* Chickens found to be infested with insects and parasites that may result in unhealthy conditions to human habitation may be removed by an animal control officer.

* The chicken owner must provide for the storage and removal of chicken manure. All stored manure shall be covered by a fully enclosed structure with a roof or lid over the entire structure. No more than three cubic feet of manure shall be stored. All other manure not used for composting or fertilizing shall be removed.

* Any violation of the ordinance that constitutes a health hazard or that interferes with the use or enjoyment of neighboring property is a nuisance and may be abated under the general nuisance abatement provisions of the city.

* Each day that a violation continues is a separate offense.

Downtown Springfield is currently featured by International Downtown Association.

Center City is featured as Downtown of the Month by International Downtown Association. There isn’t an author attached and reads as though it was likely written by an SGF advocate. On a large enough scale, I’m sure every downtown will get the treatment, but it’s always good to see SGF get recognized.

SGF is one of the most gardening enthused communities and our new botanical center is ready. (photo from early September)

The long-awaited Springfield Greene-County Botanical Center opened today with a full-schedule to celebrate throughout the next week. The festivities include hands-on guided tours, booths, butterfly house, demonstrations, activities for people of all ages, and more.
The official ribbon cutting is this afternoon at 4 p.m. Grammy-award winner Judy Collins (“Send in the Clowns“) is playing a free show Sunday (3 p.m.). For more information visit the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center Website.

Check out the entire, detailed Botanical Center Grand Opening schedule.

From the city: Beginning Oct. 8, the lobby of the Springfield Police Department headquarters at 321 E. Chestnut Expressway will be closed during overnight hours from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. each day.

The change is being made in response to staffing shortages in the Department’s Police Services Representative personnel. These employees provide support functions for the Department’s uniformed law enforcement operations, including records management, assisting people at the front desk or by phone, mail, or fax.

Earlier this year, City Council committed to hiring more public safety employees in the Police and Fire departments during the FY2011 budget year, despite the ongoing hiring freeze for General Fund positions now in its 22nd month. This included 20 police recruits currently training in a police academy and four PSR employees.

However, recent and upcoming retirements in addition to the hiring freeze and a four-month lead time for training new employees have resulted in a staffing shortage in PSR personnel.

Staffing shortages also led SPD to close the lobby of the South District Station, 2620 W. Battlefield Road, in February.

The primary duty of overnight lobby personnel is the take police reports from citizens who walk in to report incidents in person. Before the overnight lobby shift is closed, a phone for dialing 911 will be installed in the outer lobby, which will remain open. There will also be reporting forms available and signs instructing citizens how to file reports. The lobby will re-open at 7 a.m. and remain open until 11 p.m. each day, seven days a week.

When funding is available, the Police Department plans to re-open a daytime shift at the South District Station lobby before re-opening the overnight shift at the headquarters lobby. There is currently no timeline for that change, due to budget constraints.

From the city: The City of Springfield has received a grant of $40,000 from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to study the feasibility of using waste heat and electric power from the City’s Noble Hill Landfill Renewable Energy Center (NHLREC) to help expand the region’s locally grown food supply. The grant will be matched by $20,000 from the City’s Solid Waste Management Division Enterprise Fund.

The study will determine the technical, environmental and economic feasibility of using a portion of waste heat and electric power from the NHLREC to heat, cool and power a large commercial greenhouse to be located on adjacent City property.

The NHLREC is a partnership of the City of Springfield and City Utilities of Springfield to capture and use landfill gas as fuel to generate up to 3.2 megawatts of electric power for CU’s Springfield customers. The renewable energy center adjacent to the City’s Noble Hill Sanitary Landfill has been operational since 2006.

“We now have the opportunity to take our renewable energy project to the next level by using a portion of the Center’s waste heat and power to support year round production of high-value produce for markets throughout the region,” said Ted O’Neill, Superintendent of Solid Waste Management with Springfield Public Works.

If feasible, the greenhouse project would be developed and operated as a public/private partnership. The project would contribute to the region’s locally grown food supply, create new year-round “green” jobs, and add economic activity in the region.

“We plan to work closely with and share study results with the region’s agricultural community through Greene County’s MU Extension Service,” said Patrick Byers, MU Extension Regional Horticulture Specialist, who will serve on the study’s advisory board. “If this project is successful, it will complement and strengthen the region’s growing network of commercial greenhouse growers and help expand our region’s home grown food supply.”

“It could also provide our region’s colleges and universities a unique ‘hands on’ training center to help grow new ‘green jobs’ and small businesses to support our region’s sustainable agriculture and economic growth,” said Dr. Anson Elliott, head of the Darr School of Agriculture at Missouri State University, who also will serve on the study’s advisory board. Students and faculty from the School of Agriculture will conduct a produce market study for the project.

The City’s grant is one of 17 competitive grants made by the MDNR to public and private entities to conduct resource assessments and feasibility studies of potential new renewable energy projects throughout the state.

“These assessments and feasibility studies will help businesses, governments and organizations make informed decisions about complex renewable energy systems,” said Mark N. Templeton, Director of the Department of Natural Resources.

MDNR distributed a total of $734,498 through the Energize Missouri Renewable Energy Subgrant program. The State’s program is one of several renewable energy projects supported by grant funds received from the U. S. Department of Energy’s State Energy Program through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Using Missouri-based renewable resources to generate heat and electricity creates jobs, boosts local economies, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and bolsters our energy security.

Local agencies working with the City’s Solid Waste Management Division include:
University of Missouri Extension, Missouri State University Department of Agriculture, and City Utilities of Springfield. Results of the study will be available for public review and comment next summer.

From the city: The City of Springfield will begin seeking citizen feedback on the first draft of goals from the Strategic Planning Process during Cider Days on Historic Walnut Street this weekend. Cider Days runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 18 and 19. Representatives from the Strategic Plan Coordinating Committee will be on hand at a booth to discuss the goals outlined so far by the 13 citizen-led planning committees. A sheet with all of the goals will be provided so that citizens can tell the committee members which goals they strongly support or have strong concerns about. The complete draft chapters on each topic also will be available, and Coordinating Committee members will be able to answer questions about the goals and the process.

The topics addressed in the Strategic Planning Process include: Arts, Culture and Tourism; Early Childhood Development; Economic Development; Education and Workforce Development; Global Perspectives and Diversity; Growth Management and Land Use; Housing; Progressive Management Planning (internal City operations); Natural Environment; Public Health; Public Safety; Recreation and Leisure; and Transportation.

This is the first step in a feedback process that is expected to last throughout the fall. The City will begin presenting the draft goals to the public in various ways this fall in order to gather as much input as possible before the plan goes to City Council for approval. There is not an exact deadline for Council approval, but the plan is expected to go to Council by the end of the year.

Citizen support and feedback of this plan is essential. The Strategic Plan has been a citizen-led process from the beginning, starting with the City’s Listening Tour in late 2009, and continuing with the work done by each of the planning groups throughout 2010.

For updates and information visit the Strategic Plan

More at Cider Days

• Arts
• Food
• Music

Last weekend, former SGFer Aaron Scott went on an endurance fishing trip to raise money and awareness for rivers and streams. Scott’s team, Team Longboat, had quite an adventure. Below is his letter to fans of Team Longboat, including the thrilling story of the 24 hour Fish-A-Thon and results.

Aaron Scott and Team Longboat came away from the 24 Hour Fish-A-Thon with an incredible story and a bunch of loot for the cause.

Supporters of Team Longboat —

Thank you for donating on our behalf to Recycled Fish. As you probably expected, the 24 Hour Fish-A-Thon has given us a heck of a story to tell. When we took on the challenge of Recycled Fish’s 24 Hour Fish-A-Thon, we knew it would be an adventure. The North Fork of the White River is a spectacular stream that offers incredible adventures every day (and every night), and our time on the water would be no exception.

In the days leading up to the event, conditions on the river couldn’t have been better. The water was running low and clear. We would have the piscatorial advantage of a new moon. The seasonal “hex hatch” was giving birth to thick, meaty mayflies. We were going to absolutely slay. Like I said, it couldn’t have been better. On the flipside, it also could get a whole lot worse.

The night before the event, the remnants of Tropical Storm Hermine swept through the Ozarks, dousing the area with heavy rain. The river shot up a foot, and the discharge jumped from a leisurely 350 CFS (cubic feet per second) to an angry 1,100 CFS. (See the attached discharge graph with notations.) Still floatable, but fishing would be difficult. The river was murky with the dirt and dust that had dried during the late summer heat of August, now washed downstream by the downpour. The prime fishing holes on the North Fork, for a trout stream, are deep to begin with, and that’s without another foot of water and a flow several times stronger than usual. Fishing was going to be difficult, and we knew we would have to accept it. But we had taken on a challenge and, as long as the skies were clear and we could float the river safely, we were not about to back down.

When we all arrived at the River of Life Farm, we surveyed the river and mulled over our options. Floating in Kyle’s longboat would be safe but difficult. It could handle the stronger currents well, but taking our time, to pace ourselves for this 24 hour marathon, would be hard. We considered commandeering the Farm’s Clackacraft driftboat, which has the advantage of making backpaddling easy with its mounted oars. While taking the longboat was essential to our plans, the driftboat was starting to make a lot of sense—until we remembered the two low-water bridges that we’d have to float under—or portage over—on our trip from Kelly Ford to Patrick Bridge. Under normal conditions, the driftboat, which rides higher in the water than the longboat, wouldn’t have any problems floating under the low-water bridges; of course, if we were under normal conditions, we wouldn’t be considering a change in watercraft. So we arrived back at the longboat and decided to extended our float several miles to account for the faster flows.

That settled, packed up the boat, hitched the trailer to the truck, and headed to Kelly Ford. Despite the river conditions, the weather was perfect as we hit the water at 6:00 p.m., the official start of the Fish-A-Thon. With Kyle guiding the boat downriver in the stern, Brian and I began fishing. As the sun set on the horizon, we stopped to work the Falls at the Farm, one of the most significant features of the North Fork. It’s a prime spot to find big fish and overturned canoes. The runs just above and below the Falls, a broken ledge that extends all the way across the river, provides great holding water for trout. We knew they were in there, but with the high water, it was tough to actually find them. With the evening settling in, we continued on, hoping for even a smidge of luck.

With night falling, we arrived at the campsite that Kyle and Brian had scouted out earlier in the day. With the gravel bar underwater, we were pushed up onto the bank with enough room for a small fire. (Much to Brian’s chagrin, the area was littered with otter scat.) While camp was set, we took turns fishing the immediate area. If it weren’t for the fire and a couple lanterns, the river would have been pitch black, illuminated only by the billions of stars that were visible overhead. It would not be the only time that night when we were humbled by the power and immensity of nature, of creation.

After a quick dinner, we hiked back through the woods and found a spot to climb down to the river. We waded carefully in the dark, searching for the likely spot of a hungry brown, casting heavily weighted nymph rigs with glow-in-the-dark indicators across the . Throughout the night, we noticed flashes of light across the clear sky. Even though the sky was crystal overhead, it was obvious that a storm was lurking miles and miles away. At the time, we had nothing to worry about, other than wondering when we’d land that first fish, that serendipitous creature, relieving the strain of bad fortune, making it all worthwhile.

Around 2:30 a.m., we headed back downstream to the campsite, ready to plan a new strategy; however, we noticed an increased frequency in the lightning flashes. As the sky lit up, I noticed clouds forming over the hills above the western bank of the river. Brian checked the weather on his phone and, sure enough, there was a thick band of thunderstorms heading straight to the area. We debated a course of action and planned evasive maneuvers. We didn’t want to be caught on a rising river in the middle of the night. Luckily, Brian had stashed his car near the campsite, loaded with overnight essentials that we didn’t need in the boat. At 3:00, a after packing everything we could into the car, dousing the fire and loading up the boat, Brian drove back to the farm to retrieve a trailer. Kyle and I shoved off from the site and headed downriver to Blair Bridge, the closest public access, about a mile downstream. It was then, at that instant, that the sky opened up.

We were hammered by rain, falling so hard and thick that we couldn’t see but a few feet past the bow with our headlamps—the only visibility came with the flash of lightning. Thunder shook the strong, stable longboat, in turn giving strength and speed to our relentless paddling. We covered the distance as quickly as we could and took cover underneath Blair Bridge, barely wide enough to protect the twenty-some-foot longboat. By the time Brian returned, the rain had lightened. We loaded the longboat and headed back to the Farm to wait out the storm, to see what effect it would have on the already-swollen river.

Ultimately, the early-morning torrent that interrupted our efforts teaches a lesson that is at the core of Recycled Fish—respect for Mother Nature. Through stewardship education, the organization teaches people how to take better care of the waters, of the fish, of the Earth that we love. And that’s one way to show respect. Another way is to yield to nature’s power, to realize when the forces of nature are no match for mere humans. While we had to retreat from the surging river, we did so out of respect.

On Saturday, with clouds still on the western horizon and the river running even higher and faster than the day before, it was clear we would not chance another float. Instead, we waded the Falls again and, in the early afternoon, Kyle landed Team Longboat’s first fish of the trip – a beautiful wild rainbow. After it was measured and photographed, we released it back into the river. We caught a handful more before the 6:00 p.m. deadline, but the two rainbows that we measured, out of the seven or eight that we landed, would be no match for the catch-and-release contest of the Fish-A-Thon.

Fortunately, that is beside the point because, while the fishing was next to impossible, you helped make something else possible—meeting our fundraising goal. Your donations placed us at the top of all teams in fundraising, bringing in over $1,200 for Recycled Fish. That money is going to go a long way to help educate anglers, sportsmen and other outdoor lovers how to be better stewards of our environment. To put it in a physical context, every dollar donated to Recycled Fish can be turned into three pounds of trash removed from our lakes and river—meaning your donations could amount to the removal of over 3,600 pounds of trash that are currently polluting our waters. And, for those of you in the Ozarks, that will soon hit close to home—Recycled Fish has a lakeshore cleanup event planned for Table Rock Lake in October.

Again, thank you for your contribution. Your support means so much to us, and I’m sure we’ll all continue to benefit from those contributions as Recycled Fish teaches more and more people how to improve our world. Special thanks to the River of Life Farm on the North Fork; the Feather-Craft fly shop in St. Louis; the Dynamic Earth Equipment gear shop in Springfield; the Backcountry Outfitters fly shop in Springfield; the Angler’s Edge tackle shop in Ozarks; and The Coffee Ethic coffeeshop in Springfield, the official caffeine fix of Team Longboat. If you have a chance, please support these great businesses.

Thank you!

—Aaron J Scott / TeamLongboat.com

First the prostitution sting, now the pervert jogger. This could be the rebirth of vigilante justice. Speaking of, Republic could be in need of some that as well. In other news, SGF has another person to be proud of … jeez, why would you stab somebody? When does it sounds like a good idea? Anyway, this is where to find a handful of  links for SGF-related news you should read that didn’t come from TAGsgf.com. We don’t hate. Read up. If you’ve seen a recent headline that you think people should notice, share it in comments.

• SGF Mom catches perv touching himself in school parking lot – Joanna Small, KSPR
• Energy guidelines cut comforts for teachers – Claudette Riley, News-Leader
• Classy SGFer charged after June assault … stemming from a fender bender – Kathryn Wall, News-Leader
• Stabbing suspect in Kansas City a Glendale grad - Joe Daues, KSPR
• Greene County continues with plans to cut Republic 9-1-1 Call Center – Abby Wuellner, KY3

From the city: The City of Springfield is seeking volunteers to assist with beautification and sign removal in public right-of-way along city roadways.

An information and training session will be held at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 2010, in the Busch Municipal Building, room L45.

Section 98-7 of the Springfield City Code prohibits the placement of advertisements within the right-of-way of any public thoroughfare. The ordinance is designed to ensure visibility for drivers and to reduce litter in areas where Springfield Public Works mows grass. Public right-of-way is usually defined as the area from the street curb to the outer edge of a public sidewalk. Signs and advertisements on utility poles are also prohibited by City code.

This ordinance is difficult to enforce, and signs are typically removed only on a complaint basis or when Public Works employees mow grass in a right-of-way. For this reason, the City will seek volunteers interested in beautification to help spot and remove illegal signs in the right-of-way.

Volunteers will receive training by City staff, and will be able to conduct their work on their own time. The City will not ask volunteers to remove out-of-reach signs; signs related to the sale or lease of property; political signs; signs advertising on-premises businesses; or any signs on private property. Instead, these will be referred to City staff for further enforcement.

Signs that may be removed by volunteers include any off-premises business or activity advertised in the right-of-way or on telephone poles. As they keep an eye on beautification, volunteers may also report other concerns such as broken curbs, potholes, graffiti, dead animals, trash and tall weeds. Volunteers assisting the City must be at least 18 years of age and are required to sign a release form.

Recycled Fish is the perfect charity for former SGFer Aaron Scott.

Aaron Scott, former SGFer and MORawk founder, is getting ready for a long weekend on the North Fork of the White River. As a member of Team Longboat, Scott will spend 24 consecutive hours – from Friday (Sept. 10) at 6 p.m. until Saturday at 5:59 p.m. – casting and reeling. It’s the fisherman’s version of a marathon.

The Recycled Fish event provides fly fishermen a unique opportunity to raise money and awareness for the streams. “It’s an organization I really believe in because I try to be as environmentally minded as possible, and I also love fly fishing,” Scott said. “Recycled Fish is the perfect marriage of those two passions, so I’m very glad to dedicate some volunteer effort to the organization.”

Last year, the first 24 Hour Fish-A-Thon raised more than $6,000, making it their largest fundraiser. They’ve set a goal of $20,000 for this year’s event. Team Longboat has already almost reached its goal ($1,200), with $1,000 so far, and is leading the 27 team field in money raised. “I’d love to totally smash that (goal of $1,200) and hit $2,000. That’s my personal goal, anyway.” Scott has a personal pledge of $1/fish he catches and has some other creative ways to grab sponsorships, such as the $15 to earn him a 15-minute power nap. The Coffee Ethic is the team’s official “coffee fix.”

The money is good, but awareness is the main issue. Scott said if water quality on the North Fork and other Ozarks streams is not maintained and improved, we run the risk of not only losing the great rainbow trout, brown trout and smallmouth bass fishing, but also the endangered Ozark Hellbender, a giant salamander unique to only a few streams in the Ozarks.

Team Longboat will be fishing in a traditional wooden White River johnboat, handbuilt by Kyle Kosovich, Scott’s teammate. Brian Wise is the third member of Team Longboat.

Donation opportunities available via Team Longboat.

Other media:

SGF is a very gardening enthused communities. The new botanical center is just about complete.

Prime parking at the Botanical Center is reserved for environmentally friendly vehicles.

The new $4.3-million Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center at Nathanael Greene Park is just about complete and will be ready for its week-long grand opening October 11-17. Taxpayers voted in 2006 on a 1/4-cent tax to provide $3-million for the project. The Center is a “green building” and was designed by H Design Group and constructed by R.E. Smith Construction Company of Joplin.

The building is tremendous to look at – it overlooks the 55-acre park below, adjoining Close Memorial Park and Nathanael Greene. There is a roof-top plaza above the 12,000 square foot building, which will hold exhibits, seminars and meeting rooms. Demonstrations which never had a home before, will soon be able to be held in SGF.

According to Ozarks Gardens, the botanical center will:

… provide classes, workshops, and demonstrations in identifying, growing, and caring for plants of all kinds. It includes botanical gardens that are essentially teaching gardens where people can see first-hand plants that grow well in their region, how to grow them, and how they can be used to beautify one’s own surroundings.

Aside from visiting and learning the Botanical Center, you can also join Friends of the Garden with a $25 tax-deductible donation. It gets you a season pass for two to the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, discounts on seminars and more.

Lt. Dangle had nothing to do with SGF's prostitution bust. Local vigilante Lori Ross took it into her own hands.

* Props to SGF vigilante, Lori Ross, who saved Grant Beach Park from prostitutes. – Joanna Small, KSPR

* Class-action suits for red light tickets dismissed by federal judge – News-Leader

* SGF Superintendent Norm Ridder makes case for four-day school week – Claudette Riley, News-Leader

* Former SGF corrections officer sentenced for string of rapes – Kyle Bosch, KSPR

The glass exterior was removed from the Heer's Building earlier in the 2000s leaving a boarded window exterior. If all goes well, it could be back in action by June 2012.

The historic Heer’s Building on the square has sat empty since closing for business in 1995. Board-covered windows create an eyesore as the rest of the square and downtown area has continued to take shape as an economic and gathering focal point for the city. Three years ago, SGF executed a Developer Agreement with Kevin McGowan. After a 2008 amendment, the economic recession resulted in a tight financing market which has led to changes in McGowan’s plan for the historic site. SGF continues to stand behind the project and a public hearing will take place during next week’s City Council meeting (August 23) regarding the redevelopment.

Despite the economic climate, SGF Mayor Jim O’Neal said a redeveloped Heer’s building would create a local financial boom. “At a time when traditional demand for those loans is down, I believe the Heer’s building presents a great opportunity to put that funding to use in a project that will be a catalyst for further investment in Springfield,” O’Neal said. SGF doesn’t own the Heer’s building, McGowan does. He purchased it for $3 million in 2007, so the city is under no obligation to repurchase the vacant landmark.

McGowan’s final application to HUD is due October 6, 2010. If approved by all parties, closing on all financing would occur near March 1, 2011. The project would then take an estimated 14 months to complete.

“I appreciate the willingness on the part of the City Council and the citizens of Springfield to stick by my vision for the Heer’s building,” McGowan said. “This road has been longer than most imagined, and there are still a few miles left to go. Springfield, and the downtown community in particular, has been patient. I continue to believe the wait will be well worth it.”

The Heer’s building opened in 1915 as a premiere shopping destination. It expanded in 1951 and got a major renovation in 1969 when a glass exterior was added in an attempt to modernize the building.

The plan would combine commercial and residential, business and pleasure. St. Louis Cardinals fans would certainly be excited for a Mike Shannon’s on the square.

McGowan’s plan for Heer’s includes:

• 63 market rate apartments
• Rooftop pool and deck
• Common study den
• Fitness center
• High-speed Internet access
• Indoor parking
• Security system
• 33,000 square feet net rentable commercial space
• Mike Shannon’s Steak and Seafood restaurant
• Banquet space
• Bowling alley, bar and restaurant

Proposed Funding:

• Department of Housing and Urban Development – $11.8 million (Federal Housing Authority loan guarantee for market rate apartments)
• Federal Historic Tax Credits – $5.1 million
• State Historic Tax Credits – $4.93 million
• McGowan’s contribution – $4.4 million
• Small Business Development Loan from the City – $2 million
• Loan from the Missouri Development Finance Board (passed through the City) – $1 million

The City of SGF’s participation in the plan includes:

• Amend the existing Community Improvement District first outlined in the August 2007 agreement, which levies a 1 percent sales and use tax, or terminate the existing CID and establish a new CID.
• Establish a Tax Increment Financing District as outlined in the August 2007 agreement. The TIF District would capture 100 percent of the incremental increase in property taxes and 50 percent of the incremental increase in sales taxes. McGowan contractually agrees to a fixed PILOT (payment in lieu of taxes) that will cover at least 70 percent of the City/MDFB debt service and to not protest property valuations so long as they do not exceed the PILOT payment schedule. The remainder of the debt service will be repaid from sales taxes generated at the development.
• Loan $2 million from the Small Business Development Program with a 23-year term at 5 percent interest, to be repaid from TIF and CID revenues generated at Heer’s.
• Request the Missouri Development Finance Board’s participation on behalf of the Heer’s project by loaning the City $1 million that the City will loan to the developer, also with a 23-year term at 5 percent interest. This loan will be limited recourse to the City of Springfield, with repayments limited to TIF and CID revenues.
• Request the Missouri Development Finance Board assist in the collateralization of the state historic tax credit bridge loan.

Don't drink and drive. It's dangerous, and when SPD catches you, it's expensive. (And SPD will probably catch you)

From the city: From Aug. 20 through Sept. 6, members of the Springfield Police Department will be participating in a statewide effort to remove intoxicated drivers from the roadways. Enforcement efforts will be increased with a focus on reducing deaths and serious injuries caused by impaired drivers.

A grant received from the Missouri Department of Transportation‘s Highway Safety Division will fund this effort.

Driving while intoxicated remains one of the top causes of fatal car crashes in Missouri. In 2009, 268 people were killed and 1,134 seriously injured in crashes involving an impaired driver. In Springfield alone, four people were killed and 127 injured. These tragedies are preventable when drivers make a simple, smart choice not to drink and drive. Don’t risk it!

We are all part of the solution, so please consider the following tips:

For more information on impaired driving, visit www.saveMOlives.com

The Simpsons' Springfield isn't the only namesake in environmental trouble. SGF is closing in on a potential impactful citation.

During City Council’s August 9 meeting, City Manager Greg Burris acknowledged that the SGF may be cited by the Environmental Protection Agency for ground-level Ozone pollution at the end of August, and labeled with “non attainment” status. The impact is far reaching, and this will in no way be a knee scrape for our city, which makes it surprising to have passed so far under the radar.

Doug Neidigh, a member of Ozarks Clean Air Alliance, said the EPA is revisiting its national ground-level Ozone standards, and when that standard is lowered SGF will likely fall below the cut. “Our community is the fastest growing community in Missouri and with that growth comes more automobiles, businesses, and more emissions. (OCAA) has taken a proactive approach, but at some point we’re going to cross that line.” That line is measured in parts per billion and Springfield measures at 69 ppb. The max currently sits at 75, but is expected to be moved somewhere between 60-70 when the EPA announces the new mark (likely on the last business day of August). “It’s a matter of public health. People have significant health risks. Those with respiratory problems, heart disease and children whose lungs are still developing are especially in danger,” Neidigh said.

Generally the course of action for the EPA is to give the citation which normally comes with a three-year window to get a corrective action plan in place. OCAA has been working with the EPA and Department of Natural Resources to get a jump start, but regulations are likely heading our way. Vehicles, gas stations, businesses (large and small), and even your lawnmower could get regulated. Nothing’s out of reach. “It costs communities a lot of money to fix air quality under regulated (terms),” Neidigh said, “and the government doesn’t help funding. They didn’t pollute our air.”

Kansas City and St. Louis are examples of towns to have been labeled “non attainment.” The process that follows is building a State Implementation Plan in which a local action group, OCAA in SGF’s case, works with the EPA and the state to lower the parts per billion count. K.C.’s regulations include gas stations offering less volatile fuel that is of higher cost to consumers. Other regulations limit emissions from printing and auto painting operations, industrial solvent use, and the manufacture of paints, solvents and pesticides.

This pollution is caused during the day, mostly in the heat and simply changing pieces of your routine can help tremendously (carpool, walk or bike; pump gas at night and DON’T top off your tank; use water-based solutions, not solvent; mow at night; paint at night; landscape with native plants – less grass, less fertilizers and insecticides). Visit OCAA for more ideas on how you can help.

The time to quaff at the hippies and tree huggers is over. Turns out they were right. Government and science says so. It’s our health and our economy at risk. We all must make changes.

What is Ozone?

Ozone (O₃) is a gas composed of three oxygen atoms. It is not usually emitted directly into the air, but at ground-level is created by a chemical reaction between oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOC) in the presence of sunlight. Ozone has the same chemical structure whether it occurs miles above the earth or at ground-level and can be “good” or “bad,” depending on its location in the atmosphere. – EPA

What is ground-level ozone?

In the earth’s lower atmosphere, ground-level ozone is considered “bad.” Motor vehicle exhaust and industrial emissions, gasoline vapors, and chemical solvents as well as natural sources emit NOx and VOC that help form ozone. Ground-level ozone is the primary constituent of smog. Sunlight and hot weather cause ground-level ozone to form in harmful concentrations in the air. As a result, it is known as a summertime air pollutant. Many urban areas tend to have high levels of “bad” ozone, but even rural areas are also subject to increased ozone levels because wind carries ozone and pollutants that form it hundreds of miles away from their original sources. – EPA

From the city: Starting the week of Aug. 16, crews are scheduled to begin milling pavement on National Avenue at Seminole Street as part of the improvement project at that intersection. The older surface pavement will be milled down to the same level as the new concrete base installed this summer.

Milling is expected to be complete in about one week. Crews are then scheduled to begin laying a new asphalt surface over the entire intersection. Installation of a new median along National Avenue on the south side of the intersection also will begin at this time.

Motorists can expect lane shifts throughout this process. Northbound and southbound traffic on National Avenue will remain open. Eastbound and westbound traffic on Seminole, including right turns, will remain closed.

Once the new paving work is finished, the intersection will be near functional completion and access to Seminole will re-open. Final striping and other finishing touches will occur following that. The project is expected to be fully complete by fall.

The National Avenue and Seminole Street intersection improvement project includes straightening of National to improve driver sightlines, new turn lanes and storm water drainage upgrades. The project is funded by the 1/4-cent Sales Tax for Capital Improvements.

Burris

City Manager Greg Burris brought SGF City Council up to speed on the commitments made prior to the Police/Fire Pension Fund sales tax vote in September of last year.

Five are completed and two are in progress. The commitments in progress include: put 100 percent of the pension fund sales tax revenue into the pension fund and sell surplus properties to put money into the pension fund. Those already completed include: continue to contribute 35 percent of payroll into the fund, increase the amount Tier I employees pay into the fund, put all new hires into LAGERS, put all telecomm settlement money into the fund and restructure the pension board. The Council also pledged not to seek any new city sales taxes during the lifetime of the pension sales tax. – City Council Minutes 8/9/10

SGF police looking for any tips on the elderly robber

From the city: The Springfield Police Department is currently investigating three strong armed robberies that occurred yesterday. In each of the robberies the target victims were elderly females, including one victim in a wheelchair. In all three robberies the lone suspect either stole or attempted to steal the victim’s purse.

The first robbery occurred shortly after 12:30 p.m. at 712 W. Commercial St. (Price Cutter) when a black male suspect attempted to steal the purse of a 75-year old female. The victim was able to hold on to her purse and the suspect fled. The photographs attached to this release are from that attempted robbery. At 12:54 p.m., a 63-year old female in a wheelchair had her purse grabbed by a suspect matching the description of the earlier attempted robbery. This incident occurred at the Womack’s located 1130 N. Grant Ave. Later in the afternoon, an 81-year old female had her purse taken when the suspect pushed the victim and escaped with her purse. That incident occurred at 2:24 p.m. at the Aldi’s located at 1645 E. Kearney St. The suspect in that robbery also matched the previous incidents.

The suspect is described as a black male, 6-0 200 lbs, 20-30 years old. The suspect may be in an older full size van two toned with brown and beige paint. Anyone with information should call the Springfield Police Department at 417-864-1810 or 869-TIPS.

Only deadbeats don't get out and vote. Don't be a deadbeat.

Proposition C has been the recent political hot topic, and you get to cast your vote today. No statements here supporting either side on today’s measure, only support to get you out to vote (it’s your duty, after all), and to present the language you will see on the ballot (as published to the web by the Secretary of State).

How the ballot reads

Shall the Missouri Statutes be amended to:

* Deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services?

* Modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies?

It is estimated this proposal will have no immediate costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.  However, because of the uncertain interaction of the proposal with implementation of the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, future costs to state governmental entities are unknown.

Fair Ballot Language

A “yes” vote will amend Missouri law to deny the government authority to penalize citizens for refusing to purchase private health insurance or infringe upon the right to offer or accept direct payment for lawful healthcare services. The amendment will also modify laws regarding the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

A “no” vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding private health insurance, lawful healthcare services, and the liquidation of certain domestic insurance companies.

If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

The polls are open from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. Look here, if you don’t remember where to vote.

Candidate List from the Greene County Library (PDF): candidates & issues

The following streets will see lane closures for wastewater system maintenance next week.

* 1165 S. Kimbrough Ave. – The southbound lane between Loren and Catalpa streets will be closed from 8 a.m., Tuesday, Aug. 3 to 5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 4, or until work is completed.

* 1248 S. National Ave. – The northbound lane between Catalpa and Meadowmere streets will be closed from 8 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 5, to 5:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 6, or until work is completed.

Help SGF map out a wastewater improvements plan.

From the city: The City of Springfield is seeking volunteers to serve on a Wastewater Improvements Task Force that will help guide potentially significant improvements to Springfield’s wastewater services and treatment system.

The City and its Public Works Department are undertaking this process because state and federal regulations regarding the Clean Water Act are becoming more extensive and more expensive to meet. The City is facing some significant challenges related to high flow rates in its sanitary sewer system during wet weather periods that sometimes result in overflows from the system.  System improvements are required to comply with state and federal regulations, and protect public health and the environment.

In order to make the process of determining a fair and equitable plan for paying for the cost of these improvements as transparent as possible, the City plans to create a 20-member stakeholder task force. The Wastewater Improvements Task Force will include eight citizen representatives, two from each Council zone. It will also include stakeholders from the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as the development community, environmental organizations, and engineering or technical experts.

The group will receive input related to affordability, cost distribution and decision-making criteria; help develop programs to reduce basement backups and extra water that enters the system from private property connections to the sewer system; and address issues regarding satellite communities (Willard, Strafford, Battlefield and Republic) which discharge wastewater to the City’s system for treatment.

The task force will follow a structured schedule, and will be assisted by a facilitator. It will hold approximately eight meetings in nine months, and will take public comment throughout the process. The group will make its final recommendations to City Council by the middle of 2011.

All of the task force members will be approved by City Council. Citizens interested in serving on the task force are only required to be ratepayers of the City’s wastewater utility. Those interested in serving should contact the City Clerk’s Office at (417) 864-1654 or fill out an application online at www.springfieldmo.gov/boards. Click on ‘Apply To Serve’ and choose Wastewater Improvements Task Force when asked which group you are interested in joining. The deadline to apply for the Wastewater Improvements Task Force is Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2010.

Further explanation of the issues facing Springfield’s wastewater system can be found at www.springfieldmo.gov/cityconnect.

For more information, contact: Steve Meyer, Co-Interim Director of Public Works, (417) 864-2047; or Brenda Cirtin, City Clerk, (417) 864-1650.

From the city: The Uniform Crime Report for the first six months of the year shows an overall rise in reported crime in the city of Springfield. According to the Springfield Police Department, there was nearly a 7 percent increase in reported crime during the first six months of the year. The Uniform Crime Report compares the first six months of 2009 to January through June 2010.

The increase was driven by a 27 percent increase in aggravated assaults compared to the same reporting period a year ago. The report also indicates a significant increase in the number of murder cases worked by the department. Last year police worked three murders, compared to eight from January to June this year. The number of forcible rapes dropped just more than 8 percent, while the number of robberies reported in the city dropped from 129 to 128.

Property crimes increased just more than 6 percent during the first six months. Larceny and theft rose over 9 percent, while motor vehicle thefts increased almost 8 percent. There was a significant decline in the number of burglaries reported between January and June. Last year 1,125 burglaries were reported during the first six months. The number decreased by 95 this year and resulted in an 8 percent decline. The department’s clearance rate for burglaries improved from approximately 16 percent to more than 29 percent during the rating period. However, the overall clearance rate for property crimes declined just more than 1 percent. The clearance rate for crimes against persons improved less than 1 percent.

PDF:2010 Uniform Crime Report (first half)

Three downtown streets will be repaved with new asphalt overlay beginning today (Monday, July 26). Parking lanes will be blocked off during this time.

The streets include:
* Walnut Street, from Jefferson to Kimbrough
* Jefferson Avenue, from McDaniel to Elm
* St. Louis Street, from Jefferson to Kimbrough

From the city: On July 1, Mayor James O’Neal declared July as “Smart Irrigation Month” in Springfield. The proclamation will be presented at a related training event to be held at 11 a.m., July 20, at Ewing Irrigation, 1841 W. Sunset St. in Springfield.

Smart Irrigation Month was created by the Irrigation Association (www.irrigation.org) as a public awareness campaign to promote efficient use of water in irrigation. Using water wisely saves money on utility bills, nurtures green spaces that deliver real environmental benefits, protects our community’s water supply for generations to come, and minimizes added investments in infrastructure to store and carry water. Automatic watering, sprinkler, and irrigation systems can deliver exactly the right amount of water at the right time. Efficient irrigation systems minimize overwatering while keeping lawns and gardens beautiful and healthy by adjusting water levels automatically to account for rain and other contributing conditions. This puts every drop of water to work by minimizing evaporation and waste, and makes maintaining landscapes more convenient and cost effective.

In Springfield, summer water usage can increase by as much as 50 percent due to irrigation. In an effort to even the load this increased consumption creates, City Utilities has implemented the “Odd or Even?” program where property owners are asked to water on specific days depending on whether they reside at an address with an odd or even house number.

Many property owners unintentionally over-water lawns and landscapes, sometimes by as much as 40 percent. Since irrigation can be one of the largest uses of water, tremendous potential exists for water savings through proven water-saving technologies and effective irrigation management practices. The July 20 training event will focus on realizing these potential savings through implementing best management practices and cutting-edge irrigation products, as well as other means of conserving water. While the intended audience for this training is area irrigation contractors, it is also open to the public as the information provided will be very beneficial to homeowners and property managers.

For more information about the July 20 training event, contact Scott Shadwick at Ewing Irrigation, (417) 891-9876.

For more information on City Utilities’ “Odd or Even?” landscape watering guidelines, contact Mark Viguet at (417) 831-8686, or go to www.cityutilities.net/resident/pgms/waterevenodd.htm

For information about Smart Irrigation Month, contact Joe Payne, (417) 864-1954, or go to www.smartirrigationmonth.org.

Organizations supporting the “Smart Irrigation Month” observance include: City of Springfield Public Works, City Utilities of Springfield, Watershed Committee of the Ozarks, Springfield/Greene County Choose Environmental Excellence, Show-Me Yards & Neighborhoods, Professional Grounds Management Society Greater Ozarks Branch and Ewing Irrigation of Springfield.

For more information from the Show-Me Yards & Neighborhoods program on smart water management of lawns and landscapes, contact Barbara Lucks, (417) 864-2005. More information on Smart Irrigation Month cooperating organizations can be found in the “Resources” section at www.OzarksEnvironment.com.

From the city: Effective immediately, the City of Springfield’s Recycling Center drop-off at 2525 W. College St., located at the site of the former Price Cutter, is closed. Recyclers are asked to use the City’s nearby Franklin Avenue Recycling Center, located at 731 N. Franklin Ave.

The City has been able to offer recycling drop-off services at the site since the early 1990′s through the cooperation of a series of property owners – Consumers Markets, Smiley’s IGA, and the current Price Cutter. The site is currently being converted to Springfield Public Schools’ new Early Childhood Special Education Center, to be operational in January 2011. The new education facility will require all the available space at the site.

As a result of stable funding provided by the agreement reached between the City and solid waste haulers WCA and Allied Services, the City will be offering a new, staffed Recycling Center at a site to be selected in the future.

The City’s recycling drop-off centers are components of the City’s voter-approved Integrated Solid Waste Management System (ISWMS), which also includes the Household Chemical Collection Center, Market Develop Program, Information and Education Program, Springfield Sanitary Landfill, Yardwaste Recycling Center. The Curbside Recycling component of the ISWMS is provided by private solid waste haulers. The primary funding source for the ISWMS is revenue generated from Landfill tipping fees, along with revenue with service fees, donations and the sale of compost and mulch products.

Directions to the Franklin Avenue Recycling Center from the College Street site: East on Chestnut Expressway to Broadway Avenue, North on Broadway Avenue to Poplar Street, West on Poplar Street. The Franklin Avenue Recycling Center is located at the Northwest corner of Poplar Street and Franklin Avenue.

Additional information: Recycling Hotline: 864-1904 or www.springfieldmo.gov/recycling

There’s a 1/4-cent tax on today’s ballot. The Capital Improvements Sales Tax is not a tax increase, but a continuation of a tax which has been around for more than two decades. It’s a general fund which goes to road repairs, traffic signals, etc. The money for the ($600k) wayfaring signs came from this fund, which will create an estimated $26M for the community.

Here are a couple links to help you form your decision, then get out and vote. It’s your responsibility.:

* Capital Improvements Sales Tax Details

* Springfield Chamber of Commerce says “Yes”

* AllVoices.com says “No”

The early budget for the SGF 2010-11 school year came out and, to say the least, it didn’t paint a pretty picture. In 2009-10 Springfield Public Schools cut $6.1 million, up from $4.2M the year before. Among the disturbing low-lights are reductions from text book, instruments and the elimination of teacher recognition. Here’s Norm Ridder’s grim outlook for next year’s slashes:

This district performs at a very high level and is one that, compared to any district of its size, is a very lean operation. Due to this fact, cuts of any type, but certainly of this magnitude, will have a negative impact on the quality of service provided to our staff and patrons. Please know that we are working very hard at making the most of these difficult times and decisions. – SPS Superintendent Norm Ridder

View the entire Springfield Public Schools 2010-11 Budget Proposal

Upcoming events:

* Dr. Roger Young at the Discovery Center this weekend for Scientist Saturdays (May 15): Young teaches biology at Drury University and this event provides the public an opportunity to get an inside scoop of what’s happening in science – also check out Science Cafe on Monday (May 17) for a discussion on sustainable energy.

* Free Clothing Exchange and Art Sale at the Art Factory this weekend: Friday Noon-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – In an effort to “curb mass production of goods”, a local clothing bank has been established. Bring unwanted clothing to trade with the bank. only taking as much as you bring. The leftover clothes go to Isabelle’s house, the Family Violence Center, and Rare Breed. The art sale will feature work from local artists. All proceeds go to the development of studios and gallery space. Donations are welcome with an 80/20 split. For more information, contact the Art Factory at 860-2557.

* May Poetry Slam announced for Thursday May 20 at Nathan P Murphy’s – Cash prize to winner of slam – first 10 poets to sign up may compete, tickets are $5. Poet sign up at 6:30 p.m., event begins at 7 p.m. with featured poets and musical guests. For more information email mopoetry.slam@gmail.com

Other news and notes:

* In case you missed it, K2 banned, laws could mimic marijuana misdemeanor: What do you think? The argument in the Missouri Senate is how it’s related to two already illegal substances which are handled very differently. Meth and pot. Like meth, K2 is man made, but won’t blow up a house. K2 is compared to pot because it’s said to produce a similar high. There had been pushing for possession laws to produce felonies, like meth, but now it looks like it could be a misdemeanor like pot. What’s your barometer?

* Two cases of measles showed up in Greene County. Where do you stand on immunization? Look for a poll soon.

* The final MSU president candidate interviewed.

News tips? Interesting story or link? Comment below of email Brett@TAGsgf.com

From the city: The outside northbound lane in the 3700 block of South Campbell Avenue will be closed from 8 a.m., Tuesday, May 11 to 4:30 p.m., Friday, May 14, 2010, or until work is completed, for storm water pipe installation.

City manager Greg Burriss addresses the media on Wednesday.

City manager Greg Burris could have given developer John Q Hammons another extension to break ground on the Embassy Suites next to the Expo Center. Instead, he said SGFers deserved more credibility from their local government.

“If you don’t hold people accountable, what does your word mean?” Burris said during a press conference on Tuesday. “We have an obligation to the citizens of Springfield to enforce that contract.”

Burris was referring to the ultimatum he gave JQH – start building or sell the land back for $1, a proposal Hammons called “ridiculous”. At first glance, it seems like a measuring stick competition, while Burris appears to be the first to publicly stand up to the entrepreneur.

There are, however several other variables to take into account. Thus, I will present the keys to the issue that have created a tangled mess on St. Louis Street by answering the questions that came to mind.

Why does this hotel/contract matter so much?

* When SGF built the Expo Center it was to not only host an incredible Chili Cookoff each year, but bring in several conventions a month which would be almost pure revenue. When these events and conventions book their sites, an attached hotel is a huge selling point. According to Burris, SGF has already missed out on several events.

* The Embassy Suites would not only serve as the host for these tourists, but would offer a full kitchen – something the Expo Center is missing – for catering these events.

* The deal not only was to build the hotel but to provide $550,000 worth of improvements to the Expo Center – including: enhanced acoustics, new sprinkler system, electronic sign board, and marketing among others. “We weren’t just looking for cash,” Burris said.

How did it fall apart?

* In one word: Financing. You’d think that word wouldn’t even come into play with America’s top solo hotelier, right? Neither did SGF. According to Burris, Hammons got the contract because he said it was “not contingent upon financing.”  In a letter from JQH dated April 13 (received by Burris on May 3), Hammons said, “Financing is not available and won’t be for another one to three years … Money is available but at horrible costs, and business-wise, it is not advisable.”

* Hammons received one free extension in September of 2008, which is damn near unheard of in development talks, but in what looks like an act of good faith it happened. Another one would have cost JQH a half-million dollars. He didn’t want to pay and Burris needed to put his foot down.

What’s the whole $1 thing about?

* It’s the part of the deal that’s not expected to come up. Hammons is supposed to do his contractual obligations, and it shouldn’t ever be an issue. In the contract, if Hammons didn’t break ground on April 1, 2010 (after the ’08 extension) the city could buy back the land for $1 after a 45-day grace period and sell to another developer. “We’re trying to get financing right now to come up with that,” Burris joked. JQH said it’s “ridiculous”, but as Burris said about the value of a contract … it was part of the contract. If you don’t like the clauses in an agreement, you probably shouldn’t sign the thing.

* The cost to Hammons was $7 million. With that, Hammons not only purchased the land for the site of the Embassy Suites, but the adjacent Car Park, taking on the city’s debt of the garage.

Where does it go from here?

* The city can start taking official offers for the development 60 days after Burris sent the letter to Hammons. At least one interested developer has already made contact. City officials expect several nods. Perhaps the most interesting twist is when the process begins again? Burris said JQH will have the same opportunity to make a bid as anybody else, which screams Groundhog Day. The City Manager expects to have a new proposal to city council in June.

* If Hammons doesn’t get the development, there are many other pieces that make it a tricky puzzle to fit together. JQH owns the parking garage on one side and the food and drink rights to the Expo Center (even though the city owns the building … huh??). This could slow down negotiations with other hotels and events, even though contractually Hammons must “operate in good faith.”

Other coverage:

* Amos Bridges, News-Leader
* Marie Saavedra, KY3
* Chris Wrinkle, Springfield Business Journal
* Jennifer Denman, Ozarks First (KOLR/KSFX)

If you drive by the corner of Cherry Street and Florence Avenue today on your way home from work and see the Springfield Fire Department urgently helping 50 to 100 people take their clothes off, please know that what you’re witnessing is not one of the following:

1. A scene for a movie soon to be aired late at night on the SyFy Channel.

2. A performing-arts prank on passers-by to make them think the apocalypse is coming.

3. Any actual disaster of any kind.

The fire department is holding what is known as a Mass Decon Exercise at that corner today at 5:30 p.m. with a little help from the Logan-Rogersville Fire Department Hazardous Materials Team. Essentially, it’s an instructional drill for a hazardous materials spill rather than for a fire. The Missouri State University chapters of the Sigma Kappa and Alpha Chi Omega sororities are helping out by playing the “contaminated” individuals–between 50 and 100 people in all. Part of the drill involves getting the contaminated clothing items off the person, and in this case the “contaminated” clothes will be taken to Glo Cleaners and subsequently donated to the Family Violence Center, so the practice run ultimately helps people in need, too. Just don’t pull your car over and start clubbing guys in hazmat suits; it’s not the zombie apocalypse. Promise.

City manager Greg Burris informed City Council during last night’s meeting that he has issued a letter to John Q Hammons regarding the downtown hotel development which has yet to get started.

From the council meeting:

“Burris also informed Council that he sent a letter to John Q. Hammons about Hammons’ proposed hotel development in downtown Springfield next to the Expo Center. Hammons had a deadline of April 1, 2010 to begin construction. This didn’t happen, and per the agreement signed with Hammons in 2008, the City has a right to buy back the land for $1 following a 45-day warning period from the City. The letter starts the countdown on that 45-day period, though negotiations may continue during that time.”

Read the letter in full: Hammons 45-day letter 5-3-10

May is National Bike Month, doesn't that look like fun? (photo of Tour of Missouri by Carmelita DeLeon)

With National Bike Month a day away, TAGsgf.com will post general bicycle tips and SGF tips as well. The city released the following, consider this an appetizer. The biggest tip

From the city:

May is National Bike Month, and Springfield’s “Bike, Bus, Walk Week” is Monday, May 17 through Friday, May 21. We encourage Springfield residents to leave their automobiles at home and walk, bicycle, carpool or ride the bus. During that week, City Utilities buses are free to those traveling with bikes, some fitness centers are offering showers and towels for participants, and a free breakfast is available for bicycle riders. Further, employees and schools are encouraged to register for the annual “Commuting Challenge” sponsored by Ozark Greenways. The goal is to promote personal health and a bike/pedestrian friendly community.

The City of Springfield and Ozark Greenways are continuously working to expand the network of bike routes and trails throughout Springfield and Greene County, which have already demonstrated a great potential to reduce the number of motor vehicles using the roadways and improve the overall quality of life for those who use this resource. Springfield Traffic Engineering is working on improving roadways for bicycle suitability. Currently, there are 60 miles of designated on-street bike routes. These streets typically carry lower traffic volumes and have lower speeds than parallel major thoroughfares, and are safer for bicyclists than streets with heavy vehicular traffic.

The key to a safe bike commute is the mutual respect between biker and motorist.

* Bicyclists fare best when they act as, and are treated as, drivers of motor vehicles. It is vital that bicyclists obey the same traffic rules and blend in with overall traffic so that motorists on the street know what to expect. Bicyclists should never assume the right-of-way and should always signal their intentions to motorists. Bicyclists should ride on the right side of the street parallel to, and in the same direction as, other vehicular traffic. Bicycles should be equipped with a headlight and a tail light and/or reflectors for operation after dark. Bicyclists are strongly encouraged to use proper safety helmets and wear bright clothing.  Good visibility of the bicycle and rider is essential for motorists to see the bicyclist on the roadway.

* Motorists must learn to respect the bicyclist as any other vehicle on the street.  Approach with caution and pass with care, giving adequate space for the bicyclists to handle their vehicles. This behavior shows respect for other road users and alerts other motorists on the street to do the same. Motorists must check for bicyclists and pedestrians when making right and left turns at intersections and entering and exiting from driveways.

Motorists and bicyclists are encouraged to become familiar with facilities and programs for alternative transportation available in Springfield, including the Bike and Ride availability on CU buses. Riding your bike is one of many ways to improve your personal health and the overall quality of life in our community.

For more information on the “Bike, Bus, Walk Week” go to www.ozarkgreenways.org
For Springfield’s Bike Route map go to: http://www.springfieldmo.gov/traffic/
For information transit services and more go to: www.cityutilities.net/transit/transit.htm
For bike route maps and other information go to: http://www.ozarkgreenways.org/bike-to-work/index.php

Highlights from today’s SGF City Council meeting (according to the minutes from the city):

* Runway model: The Springfield-Branson National Airport is receiving a federal aviation grant ($859,856.00) through the city “for the purpose of providing funds for the Phase I Design – Rehabilitation of Runway 14/32.”

* Got gas?: SGF will seek a “grant ($1,262,000) funded from the United States Department of Energy (DOE), through the National Energy Technology Laboratory, for the purpose of funding the construction of a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Fueling Facility.”

* Cameras tabled again: City Council seeks public input regarding how to address the red-light camera. They decided “to wait until the end of the Missouri General Assembly session in May before taking the next step on red light cameras, pending possible action at the state level.”

* Budget cuts coming: “A bill will go before Council at its May 17 meeting to adjust the budget for $1,580,233 in cuts following revenue shortfall in the third quarter”

From the city: Several streets and traffic lanes will be closed across the city this week for utility sewer maintenance. The road closings are necessary due to a seal that crews will insert around manhole frames during the process. Re-opening times are dependent on weather conditions. Drivers are advised to use caution and exercise patience.

* The righthand eastbound lane of East Sunset Street between Dollison Street and Sunset Court will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, April 27, 2010, or until work is completed.

* The southbound lane of Scenic Avenue at the intersection of Scenic and Chesterfield Boulevard/Westview Street will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday, April 27, 2010, or until work is completed.

* The southbound left-turn lane of Kimbrough Avenue at the intersection of Kimbrough and Bennett Street, as well as the eastbound lane of Bennett Street from Mary Avenue to Kimbrough Avenue, will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2010, or until work is completed.

* The righthand northbound lane of National Avenue from Meadowmere Street to Loren Street will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2010, or until work is completed.

* East Meadowmere Street between Fremont Avenue and National Avenue will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2010, or until work is completed.

* East Catalpa Street between Fremont Avenue and National Avenue will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2010, or until work is completed. Local traffic only.

* East Loren Street between Fremont Avenue and National Avenue will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesday, April 28, 2010, or until work is completed. Local traffic only.

* The lefthand southbound lane of Jefferson Avenue from Grand Street to Meadowmere Street will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday, April 29, 2010, or until work is completed.

* East Loren Street between Roanoke Avenue and Jefferson Avenue will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday, April 29, 2010, or until work is completed. Local traffic only.

* The righthand southbound lane of National Avenue between Chestnut Expressway and Trafficway will be closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday, April 29, 2010, or until work is completed.

C-Street Market in May, 2009

The warm weather signals that we’re  just a few weeks away from fresh, local grown veggies (and you get to meet the farmer!). The opening of Farmers Market season in SGF is Friday, May 7 at 4:30 p.m. The C-Street Market opens the following day at 9 a.m. Each will run weekly through October. Here’s a little taste from Donnie Rodgers for It’s All Downtown.

C-Street Market Commercial St and Jefferson Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

C-Street Market vendors tend towards small-scale farmers, bakers, crafters and talented artisan neighbors with a sense of entrepreneurship who yearn for a more intimate market experience. The C-Street Market is a celebration of food and locally-grown produce, where you can sample the goods and develop a relationship with the growers. You’ll enjoy freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, fresh ranch eggs, delightful bakery goods, bouquets of garden-grown flowers, herbs, organic produce, free-range fowl, and local handcrafts, often accompanied by the sounds of friendly, talented local musicians.

Friday Night Farmers Market Park Central East 4:30 p.m.-8 p.m.

Come experience a festival every Friday Night Farmers Market on Park Central East!  Sample some of the areas best goods, including veggies, fruits, berries, baked goods, naturally-grown beef, floral, soaps, stained glass, and jewelry. The market will also feature great local bluegrass and acoustic live music each week.

It’s All Downtown

Table wine has been tabled, attorney needs more time

SGF City Council tables Walgreens’ request to sell beer at the Kearney/National location. Store officials stress it will not be selling liquor or beer in single servings – nothing less than a 6 pack (no 40s or tallboys). This wouldn’t normally be an issue as Walgreens is licensed to sell beer and wine. Actually, other SGF stores will begin stocking alcohol on May 10, but the location is within 200 feet of Robberson Elementary School.

Amos Bridges – News-Leader

Disease in bats could effect Missouri crops

This is probably one of those stories that could have a big impact, but will get generally overlooked until we wake up one morning and mosquitoes are taking hostages. It’s reported from SGF by KBIA (Columbia, MO’s NPR).

A disease that’s killed between one and two million bats in eastern states has found its way to Missouri.

White Nose Syndrome is a fungus that gets on a bat’s face, ears and wings and deeply invades their skin tissues.

Bill Elliott, cave biologist for the Missouri Department of Conservation: “If we lose a lot of our bats, and that’s a distinct possibility, we’re going to see less mosquito control by bats, we’re going to see possibly more pests on row crops and on forests.”

KBIA

Can you feed a family of four for a week on $68.88?

This story is slanted toward the weekly Food Stamp average for a family of four. That seems like a tight, but reasonable budget, even without the government cheese.  

Associated Press

New businesses rolling into Commercial Street

Retail gem Queen City Emporium opened on Saturday, and it looks like the anticipation for C-Street Brewing won’t have to brew much longer (pun intended). We asked about Commercial’s development and it has responded with the additions of cool, new, unique-to-C-Street stops. More on these two spots to come soon.

(If you have any news tips or heard of new stores, restaurants or anything else opening locally, send me an email – Brett@TAGsgf.com. Or, if it’s old, but you think it’s swell, drop me a line, too.)

Michael Feldman and his popular comedy and quiz radio show Whad’Ya Know? is heading for a live airing from SGF. Feldman will be picking the brains of SGFers on national radio (and subsequently throughout the week, depending on the syndicate) from Juanita K Hammons Hall on Saturday, May 8 at 10 a.m. He will be joined onstage with his announcer and the Whad’Ya Know Trio.

Aside from the quiz portion of the show, there is also the random discussions and interviews around the room with audience members (whom I believe are picked at random) and local figures/celebrities. I’ll be a little curious to see what the representation of SGF will turn out to be. Either way a fun morning should be in store for live participants and drivers tuned into NPR that morning. Whad’Ya Know? airs in SGF on KSMU 91.1 FM.

Buy Tickets