Issue 76| June 2023

City moves forward with Chadwick Flyer and Garrison Springs Project

The Board of Aldermen approved an ordinance allowing the City to accept a grant from the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission to build a trail connecting the Chadwick Flyer Phase I to Ozark High School and a separate ordinance accepting a grant to help build a trail along Garrison Springs.

The Board also approved an ordinance to allow the City to begin a traffic study along N. 18th St. As more residential, commercial and traffic growth is expected in this area, Public Works says it wants to be prepared to make possible improvements to allow residents easier access and traffic flow.

You can attend the Board of Aldermen meetings at City Hall at 205 N 1st St, Ozark, MO 65721 starting at 7 pm the first and third Monday of each month or watch live online.

Ozark recognized as a Tree City USA

for 18th year in a row

To qualify, a city must maintain a tree board or department, have a community tree ordinance, spend at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and celebrate Arbor Day. These standards are put in place by the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters.

The City of Ozark is proud to continue making efforts to improve quality of life for its citizens by investing in and protecting the environment.

What's on the Calendar this month?

YOU CAN FIND INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR WARD, YOUR ALDERMAN, THE BOARD OF ALDERMEN MEETING AND AGENDA BELOW:

Pardon Our Progress

Public Works Department

Oak St. and West Downtown Area

Crews are working diligently on the water and sewer infrastructure in the Oak Street and West Downtown area. Contactors estimate 75% of the new water main has been constructed. The sewer contractor is beginning to lay pipe and manholes in the areas where new water mains have already been installed. Right now, they're about 10% complete with the sewer improvement contract.

Please remember to slow down! Help us create safe working conditions for city staff and its contractors as crews continue improvements. Road Work signs have been placed along the work route and the Ozark Police Department has been assisting with patrol.

Crews are working diligently to finish this project in a timely manner. We appreciate your cooperation!

2022 ANNUAL REPORT

The 2022 Ozark Police Department Annual report shows the department's budget, its staff and demographics, quick statistics, and details about its special operations division, awards and community service, and more.

Overview:

In 2022, the police department's budget was just over $4.4 million. 76% of that was spent on personnel with 30 percent of the workforce serving for 15 years or more. The department received 19,543 calls for service and made 775 arrests. 2,602 pieces of evidence were processed in 2022.

Corporal Justin Brown was awarded Officer of the Year.

Corporal Justin Brown 

NEW OFFICERS SWORN IN

The Ozark Police Department welcomes its newest officers Jennyfer Ramirez and Micah Rodgers, both of whom graduated from the Drury University Law Enforcement Academy.

Chief Justin Arnold graduated from the FBI National Command Course (NCC) Session #4 on May 19, 2023 in Woodbridge, Virginia.

The NCC is part of the FBI's strategic leadership program which services law enforcement agencies with 50 or fewer sworn law enforcement officers.

STATION #3 REMODEL COMING ALONG

Progress continues with the remodel of Station #3. If you have driven by this location, you have seen many changes to the layout of the current footprint.

Interior walls are up, the footers pore for the North expansion, and the new driveway has been cut in.

"We hope you are as excited about this progress as we are and look forward to the results," Asst. Chief Aaron Heaton.

Congrats, Captain Lay

The Ozark Fire Protection District would like to congratulate Aaron Lay on the recent promotion to Captain. Cpt. Lay has been with the district since 2009. He has excelled as a firefighter and has filled the role of Engineer for the past several years. Cpt. Lay will serve as a first-line supervisor in charge of an apparatus, crew, and station. He will also fill the role of a Step-up Battalion Chief officer when required.

"We are extremely proud of Aaron’s hard work and dedication," Asst. Chief Heaton.

The Ozark Fire Protection District has been expanding its Swift Water Rescue capabilities over the past several years. This month crews assembled a new rescue boat which will expand the team’s ability to intervene when shore crews are unable to affect the rescue. Crews, along with the assistance of Core Rescue members assembled the boat and trailer. Crews will spend the next several months conducting extensive training to prepare for its use. Each year, Swift Water Rescue team members conduct several hours of continued training to stay ready for a rescue.

Crews participated in the annual National Day of Prayer.

"What an amazing event that is held annually for all to participate," Asst. Chief Heaton.

As always, we encourage everyone to stay safe.

This month it is important that we discuss grilling safety. This time of year, the grills come out, and the beautiful weather allows for outdoor grilling. Remember to ensure your gas grill is turned off at the grill and the fuel container when the grill is not in use. If using charcoal or wood-fired grills remember that these embers can last for several hours after the flames have subsided. Store your grill away from flammable materials and it is preferred that grills are not left on wood decks.

Call the Ozark Fire Protection District (417) 581-4436 to schedule a crew visit or visit our district webpage for a smoke detector application. Please submit Smoke detector applications to info@ozarkfire.org.

Environmental Division

Building a Sustainable Community

Energy Efficiency: Saving Energy and Money

June in Ozark, Missouri presents an excellent opportunity to save both energy and money through energy efficiency practices. As temperatures rise and air conditioners work harder, implementing these strategies can help minimize energy consumption and reduce utility bills.

Firstly, optimizing the use of natural light is a simple yet effective step. During the longer daylight hours, open blinds, and curtains to allow sunlight to illuminate your home. This not only brightens your living space but also reduces the need for artificial lighting, resulting in energy savings.

Another way to save energy in June is by properly maintaining and programming your thermostat. Set your thermostat at a slightly higher temperature during the day when you're away or at work. By raising the temperature by a few degrees, you can significantly reduce the workload on your air conditioner. Additionally, consider investing in a programmable thermostat that allows you to automatically adjust temperatures based on your schedule. This way, you can ensure your home is comfortable when you're present while saving energy when you're not.

Lastly, take advantage of the warmer weather to reduce your reliance on energy-consuming appliances. Instead of using your clothes dryer, hang your laundry outside to dry. The summer sun and gentle breeze will do the job effectively and without using any electricity. Similarly, refrain from using your oven or stove during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for lighter meals that require minimal cooking, such as salads or sandwiches. Using smaller appliances like microwave ovens or slow cookers can also be more energy-efficient alternatives.

By adopting these energy-saving practices during June you can make a significant impact on both your energy consumption and monthly bills. Remember, small changes in your daily routine can accumulate into substantial savings over time. Not only will you benefit financially, but you'll also contribute to a greener and more sustainable environment.

Finley River Summer Camp

is in full swing

The Finley River Summer Day Camp kicked off in late May and is in full swing!

270 kids participate each week in a variety of activities at local parks and The OC including playing games, swimming, doing crafts, and going on field trips in the region, and much more.

Interest in the program grows each year, with more than 400 children applying for a spot and more than 100 being placed on a wait list.

 Registration for Summer 2023 is closed, but stay tuned for next year's camp.

Finley River Fit-Ventures

SIGN UP TO PARTICIPATE!

FUN FOR ALL AGES!

FINLEY FREEDOM 5K SOAKER SPREE

REGISTER NOW!

A fun, colorful, and WET race!

Runners can choose between a 5K (3.1 miles) or a 1K (.62 miles) fun race.

Be ready to get soaked in bright, vibrant colors throughout the race! Don't worry about the mess. Local FIREFIGHTERS will be ready to hose off racers as you come in! And if hosing off doesn't cool you down, you can get lost in our OC Foam Party.

ALL levels of runners, joggers, and walkers are encouraged to participate!

When: Saturday July 1st, 2023, at 8:00AM

Where: The Ozark Community Center

On the Road Again Summer Luncheon

July 13 | Noon

Bring your thoughts as we all dine together, and discuss what places we enjoyed and might want to go in following seasons! a full home cooked lunch will be served

Register now at the OC front desk!

Pre-registration is encouraged

For more information, call

417-581-7002 ext 2004 or email recreation@ozarkmissouri.org

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Registration is now open for

FALL VOLLEYBALL and SOCCER

KIDS ENTREPRENEUR CRAFT FAIR

Kids Entrepreneur Craft Fair

Let young minds unleash their creativity and entrepreneurial spirit! This unique event is designed to empower and inspire the next generation of business leaders and artists.

June 22 from 9 am - 3 pm at The OC located at 1530 West Jackson Street.

June 10 at 6:30 pm Movie: Jurassic Park

June 24 at 6:30 pm Movie: Moana

Finley River park

961 N. Riverside Road

COST: FREE!

Bounce Houses, activities, and food truck vendors will be open from 6:30 until the films start (expected around 8:30 for the June events).

Please bring lawn chairs or blankets. Concessions will be open.

The Historic River District is hosting a Fish Fry on June 10 from 5 - 9 pm.

The event includes Classic Car parking, Kids Zone, Buff Lamb & the Arrested, Cruise the Square, Dessert Truck and more. You are encouraged to visit the Drag City Cruise-In in Sparta from 3 - 5 pm. More details in the link below.

The Christian County Museum is hosting A Night at the Museum on

June 9 from 7 - 9 pm.

The event is a guided museum tour that includes hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, silent auction, and a gift.

Wayne Glenn will be the featured speaker.

BLOOD DRIVE

At the May blood drive at The Ozark Community Center, 17 people gave blood, six of them were first time donors and seven of them were Type O donors.

According to the Red Cross, one single blood donation can help save more than one life.

You have another opportunity to help save a life when the American Red Cross hosts another blood drive in late June at The OC again.

The American Red Cross is

June Blood Drive

Monday, June 26, 2023

8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Ozark Community Center

River and Bluff Combined Rooms

1530 West Jackson

Ozark, MO 65721

Please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter: OZARKCC to schedule an appointment.

RIVER RESCUE CLEAN UP

The James River Basin Partnership is hosting its largest annual river clean-up on the Finley River and you are invited to participate.

The event is free of charge and lunch will be provided for all volunteers. Participants are encouraged to bring their own boats or they can reserve one through JRBP. Shuttling will be available.

When: Saturday, June 10 from 8am - 1 pm