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Tax season is here and if you are having trouble figuring out those tax forms, InterServ is out to help.&nbsp;

InterServ's Counseling for the Elderly program is currently underway.&nbsp; Appointments are necessary to get assistance. &nbsp;

Director of Volunteer Services Laraine Jones says the program assists those 60 and older with moderate to low income with their taxes. &nbsp;

"By moderate we mean under $60,000 this year," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And we have trained volunteers that have been through certified IRS training that are available to help people file taxes."&nbsp;

Applications for the Counseling for the Elderly Program at InterServ began earlier this month. Jones says every year the program draws in a lot of people looking for help. &nbsp;

"We probably get phone calls from about, geeze I don't even know, my clerk that actually takes the appointments she probably has 60 phone messages every day, to try to call people back to schedule appointments," Jones says.&nbsp;

You can call InterServ's tax line at 816-558-3240 to leave a message to set up an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments can either be in person or drop offs at the offices.&nbsp;

Over the past three years all tax assistance was done by people dropping forms off at the InterServ offices&nbsp;

Jones says after only that during the pandemic, things are slowly starting to move back to in person, but it’s still more popular to just drop your forms off.&nbsp;

"Dropping them off and letting us process them and we call them in to come and pick up their documents has worked very well the last three years," Jones explains. "So, we're still doing that but there are a few people who want to be seen by a preparer and it's all still by appointment, and if they need to be seen they need to let us know, so still kind of a hybrid situation going on."&nbsp;

InterServ has three different tax assistance programs that run February 1st through April 15th.&nbsp; &nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;Tax season is here and if you are having trouble figuring out those tax forms, InterServ is out to help.&nbsp;InterServ's Counseling for the Elderly program is currently underway.&nbsp; Appointments are necessary to get assistance. &nbsp;Director of Volunteer Services Laraine Jones says the program assists those 60 and older with moderate to low income with their taxes. &nbsp;"By moderate we mean under $60,000 this year," Jones tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. "And we have trained volunteers that have been through certified IRS training that are available to help people file taxes."&nbsp;Applications for the Counseling for the Elderly Program at InterServ began earlier this month. Jones says every year the program draws in a lot of people looking for help. &nbsp;"We probably get phone calls from about, geeze I don't even know, my clerk that actually takes the appointments she probably has 60 phone messages every day, to try to call people back to schedule appointments," Jones says.&nbsp;You can call InterServ's tax line at 816-558-3240 to leave a message to set up an appointment.&nbsp; Appointments can either be in person or drop offs at the offices.&nbsp;Over the past three years all tax assistance was done by people dropping forms off at the InterServ offices&nbsp;Jones says after only that during the pandemic, things are slowly starting to move back to in person, but it’s still more popular to just drop your forms off.&nbsp;"Dropping them off and letting us process them and we call them in to come and pick up their documents has worked very well the last three years," Jones explains. "So, we're still doing that but there are a few people who want to be seen by a preparer and it's all still by appointment, and if they need to be seen they need to let us know, so still kind of a hybrid situation going on."&nbsp;InterServ has three different tax assistance programs that run February 1st through April 15th.&nbsp; &nbsp;

InterServ offering tax help for low to moderate income residents

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has started a new initiative in order to help beautify the city.

A 2021 survery conducted by the Chamber shows that 63 percent of St. Joseph residents rate the community's appearance as below average or poor. Because of this, the Chamber announced a new program called 'Adopt-a-Block.'

Chamber president Natalie Redmond says several businesses within the city have already tested out Adopt-a-Block.'

"It's a concept that we tested with Missouri American Water last year," Redmond said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Missouri American Water partnered with Gray Manufacturing and Cintas and adopted a block. The idea behind the program is you'll adopt the block for a year. Your business, your organization or you as a group of citizens. You'll take that block and give it some love."

Anyone wanting to sign up for 'Adopt-a-Block' can do so online at imaginestjoseph2040.com. 

Redmond says any group, family or business can sign up. The Chamber first announced 'Adopt-a-Block' to the general public at their annual banquet last weekend.

Redmond adds that there's many little things one can do to take care of whatever block they choose to adopt.

"Picking up trash, picking up old shrubs," Redmond noted. "Anything that needs support within that block. The city is happy to provide resources, like dumpsters and different things that you need."

&nbsp;Redmond says this is a simple way to give back to the community.

"There's thing that an average citizen can do," she said. "Beautification of a community is something that anyone can participate in. Even if you adopt a block just one time, we'll take it. If you want to sign up with Beautify St. Joseph, they do monthly cleanups."

The Chamber did a trial run of 'Adopt-a-Block' last year with Missouri American Water, Gray Manufacturing and Cintas.

You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

By TOMMY REZACSt. Joseph PostThe St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce has started a new initiative in order to help beautify the city.A 2021 survery conducted by the Chamber shows that 63 percent of St. Joseph residents rate the community's appearance as below average or poor. Because of this, the Chamber announced a new program called 'Adopt-a-Block.'Chamber president Natalie Redmond says several businesses within the city have already tested out Adopt-a-Block.'"It's a concept that we tested with Missouri American Water last year," Redmond said on KFEQ's The Hotline. "Missouri American Water partnered with Gray Manufacturing and Cintas and adopted a block. The idea behind the program is you'll adopt the block for a year. Your business, your organization or you as a group of citizens. You'll take that block and give it some love."Anyone wanting to sign up for 'Adopt-a-Block' can do so online at imaginestjoseph2040.com. Redmond says any group, family or business can sign up. The Chamber first announced 'Adopt-a-Block' to the general public at their annual banquet last weekend.Redmond adds that there's many little things one can do to take care of whatever block they choose to adopt."Picking up trash, picking up old shrubs," Redmond noted. "Anything that needs support within that block. The city is happy to provide resources, like dumpsters and different things that you need."&nbsp;Redmond says this is a simple way to give back to the community."There's thing that an average citizen can do," she said. "Beautification of a community is something that anyone can participate in. Even if you adopt a block just one time, we'll take it. If you want to sign up with Beautify St. Joseph, they do monthly cleanups."The Chamber did a trial run of 'Adopt-a-Block' last year with Missouri American Water, Gray Manufacturing and Cintas.You can follow Tommy on Twitter @TommyKFEQ and St. Joseph Post @StJosephPost.

St. Joseph Chamber unveils 'Adopt-a-Block' program in beautification effort

Northern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends the U.S.
House Republican Caucus in the aftermath of a prolonged and, at times,
contentious election for House Speaker.

It took 15 votes before Republicans joined together and
elected California Congressman Kevin McCarthy Speaker.

Graves says it took so long to elect McCarthy Speaker for a
reason.

“Because we had some changes that needed to be made in the
rules package and to be quite honest with you, it really didn’t take that long,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“Again,
it took an extra day from what we planned for.”

Graves says some of the rules adopted to appease hardline
conservative Republicans will prove good for the chamber, such as allowing a
single lawmaker to call for the Speaker’s removal.

“That’s an accountability issue,” Graves says. “It also
reinstates something like the Holman Rule, which allows us to vote on
amendments to appropriations bills individually. So that allows us to be able
to cut specific programs or pet projects out of appropriations bills. That is
something that was first put in in 1876 until Speaker Tip O’Neill took it out.
That reinstates that. That’s a good thing.”

Another rule change has become especially relevant of late. It
requires the Speaker to press for budget cuts in any discussion about raising
the debt ceiling. The nation has hit its debt ceiling, but the Treasury
Department says it can keep paying the bills until around June 5th,
when the department says it will no longer be able to use extraordinary
measures to avoid default. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has stated he will
not negotiate with House Republicans on the issue.

Conservative Republicans also wrangled other
concessions before pledging to vote for McCarthy.

Did McCarthy give up too much to get the Speakership?

“I don’t think so,” Graves says. “I’m a big supporter of Kevin.
I think Kevin is going to do a fantastic job as Speaker. I don’t think that he
gave up too much.&nbsp; I think what we did is
we just made the rules even stronger and better. It will be interesting to see
if the majority were to change again any time in the future if the rules are
kept.”

Other rules adopted during the procedure separate budget bills
and tie any vote to raise the debt ceiling to budget cuts.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674834396942.jpeg" alt="Congressman Sam Graves/file photo" />
 <figcaption>Congressman Sam Graves/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostNorthern Missouri Congressman Sam Graves defends the U.S.
House Republican Caucus in the aftermath of a prolonged and, at times,
contentious election for House Speaker.It took 15 votes before Republicans joined together and
elected California Congressman Kevin McCarthy Speaker.Graves says it took so long to elect McCarthy Speaker for a
reason.“Because we had some changes that needed to be made in the
rules package and to be quite honest with you, it really didn’t take that long,”
Graves tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post. &nbsp;“Again,
it took an extra day from what we planned for.”Graves says some of the rules adopted to appease hardline
conservative Republicans will prove good for the chamber, such as allowing a
single lawmaker to call for the Speaker’s removal.“That’s an accountability issue,” Graves says. “It also
reinstates something like the Holman Rule, which allows us to vote on
amendments to appropriations bills individually. So that allows us to be able
to cut specific programs or pet projects out of appropriations bills. That is
something that was first put in in 1876 until Speaker Tip O’Neill took it out.
That reinstates that. That’s a good thing.”Another rule change has become especially relevant of late. It
requires the Speaker to press for budget cuts in any discussion about raising
the debt ceiling. The nation has hit its debt ceiling, but the Treasury
Department says it can keep paying the bills until around June 5th,
when the department says it will no longer be able to use extraordinary
measures to avoid default. President Joe Biden, a Democrat, has stated he will
not negotiate with House Republicans on the issue.Conservative Republicans also wrangled other
concessions before pledging to vote for McCarthy.Did McCarthy give up too much to get the Speakership?“I don’t think so,” Graves says. “I’m a big supporter of Kevin.
I think Kevin is going to do a fantastic job as Speaker. I don’t think that he
gave up too much.&nbsp; I think what we did is
we just made the rules even stronger and better. It will be interesting to see
if the majority were to change again any time in the future if the rules are
kept.”Other rules adopted during the procedure separate budget bills
and tie any vote to raise the debt ceiling to budget cuts.

Graves defends US House GOP in prolonged process to elect Speaker McCarthy

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. 

Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” 

President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. 

Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. 

She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh announced Thursday her intention to step away from her role at USDA. Bronaugh says, “It is with mixed emotions that today I am announcing that I will step away from my role as Deputy Secretary in the coming weeks so I can spend more time with my family.” President Biden nominated Bronaugh to USDA in January of 2021 and was confirmed by the Senate in May of that year. Bronaugh, in 2018 was appointed as the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner. She previously served as the Virginia State Executive Director for the USDA Farm Service Agency during the Obama administration. She was the first Black woman to hold the second-in-command position at USDA. Bronaugh thanked Secretary Tom Vilsack for his support, adding, “I now look forward to taking some time off to spend more quality time with my mom, husband and four children."

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Jewel Bronaugh to step down

A
St. Joseph man has been sentenced in federal court for making a bomb threat
against the Social Security office in St. Joseph.

Federal
District Judge Brian Wimes sentenced 32-year-old James Curtman to 18 months in federal
prison without parole.

In
August, Curtman confessed to threatening to blow up the St. Joseph Social
Security office, pleading guilty to one count of influencing a federal officer
by threat.

Federal
prosecutors say Curtman, during a phone appointment in June of 2021, began
cursing and yelling at a Social Security employee. Prosecutors say the employee
attempted to help, but Curtman reverted to demeaning and offensive language and
told the employee he would make a bomb and blow up the building. The employee
placed the call on speaker for a guard to hear and when Curtman continued to
curse, she hung up.

The bomb threat forced the office to close early that day and the next day.

The
employee told investigators she worried about Curtman’s tone of voice, rage,
and close location of his address. She said she was worried he would come to the
Social Security Administration office and commit violence.

Curtman has
a prior conviction for issuing a terrorist threat in August 2020 for using
abusive language when talking by phone to employees of the Department of Social
Services in Rolla.

Curtman
also has a history of threat-related conduct for which he was not criminally
charged, including a threat in May 2017 to blow up U.S. Bank, as well as a
series of misdemeanor convictions for property damage and threatening the
peace.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA
St. Joseph man has been sentenced in federal court for making a bomb threat
against the Social Security office in St. Joseph.Federal
District Judge Brian Wimes sentenced 32-year-old James Curtman to 18 months in federal
prison without parole.In
August, Curtman confessed to threatening to blow up the St. Joseph Social
Security office, pleading guilty to one count of influencing a federal officer
by threat.Federal
prosecutors say Curtman, during a phone appointment in June of 2021, began
cursing and yelling at a Social Security employee. Prosecutors say the employee
attempted to help, but Curtman reverted to demeaning and offensive language and
told the employee he would make a bomb and blow up the building. The employee
placed the call on speaker for a guard to hear and when Curtman continued to
curse, she hung up.The bomb threat forced the office to close early that day and the next day.The
employee told investigators she worried about Curtman’s tone of voice, rage,
and close location of his address. She said she was worried he would come to the
Social Security Administration office and commit violence.Curtman has
a prior conviction for issuing a terrorist threat in August 2020 for using
abusive language when talking by phone to employees of the Department of Social
Services in Rolla.Curtman
also has a history of threat-related conduct for which he was not criminally
charged, including a threat in May 2017 to blow up U.S. Bank, as well as a
series of misdemeanor convictions for property damage and threatening the
peace.

St. Joseph man sentence to prison for threatening to blow up Social Security office

BOONE COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Boone County, Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Frank K. Bosse, 66, Atchison, Kan., was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Route Z.

The vehicle began to slide on the ice-covered road, traveled off the road into the ditch and overturned. Boone County ambulance transported Bosse to University Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BOONE COUNTY —A Kansas man was injured in an accident just after 12:30a.m. Wednesday in Boone County, Missouri.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2000 Peterbilt semi driven by Frank K. Bosse, 66, Atchison, Kan., was eastbound on Interstate 70 at Route Z.The vehicle began to slide on the ice-covered road, traveled off the road into the ditch and overturned. Boone County ambulance transported Bosse to University Medical Center. He was properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

Kansas man injured after semi overturns on icy I-70

Four finalists have been identified to become the 11th President of Northwest Missouri State University

The four individuals were identified by a search committee hired by the Board of Regents.

The four finalists are Michael Godard, provost at Southeast Missouri State University, David P. Jones the vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Minnesota State University Mankato, Kent Porterfield vice provost of student affairs at Gonzaga University, and Lance Tatum the senior vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Troy University.

“The search committee was delighted with the quality of the candidates who interviewed last week, and we are enthusiastic about introducing each finalist to the Northwest community as they make campus visits over the next few weeks,” said John Moore, chair of Northwest’s Presidential Search Committee and serves as chair of the Board of Regents in a press release.

Each of the finalists will visit the Northwest campus in Maryville for interactions with stakeholder groups in addition to town hall-style meetings that are open to all students, employees, alumni, community members and other individuals who may be unable to participate in stakeholder-specific sessions. 

The public forums also will be available via zoom for people who cannot attend in person.  For up to two days after each visit, the Northwest community will have an opportunity to submit their input regarding the finalists by completing a brief, online survey.

More information about the finalists, as well as public forums to ask questions of the candidates <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/media/news/2023/01/26presidentialsearchupdate.htm">HERE</a>.

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostFour finalists have been identified to become the 11th President of Northwest Missouri State UniversityThe four individuals were identified by a search committee hired by the Board of Regents.The four finalists are Michael Godard, provost at Southeast Missouri State University, David P. Jones the vice president for student affairs and enrollment management at Minnesota State University Mankato, Kent Porterfield vice provost of student affairs at Gonzaga University, and Lance Tatum the senior vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Troy University.“The search committee was delighted with the quality of the candidates who interviewed last week, and we are enthusiastic about introducing each finalist to the Northwest community as they make campus visits over the next few weeks,” said John Moore, chair of Northwest’s Presidential Search Committee and serves as chair of the Board of Regents in a press release.Each of the finalists will visit the Northwest campus in Maryville for interactions with stakeholder groups in addition to town hall-style meetings that are open to all students, employees, alumni, community members and other individuals who may be unable to participate in stakeholder-specific sessions. The public forums also will be available via zoom for people who cannot attend in person. For up to two days after each visit, the Northwest community will have an opportunity to submit their input regarding the finalists by completing a brief, online survey.More information about the finalists, as well as public forums to ask questions of the candidates <a href="https://www.nwmissouri.edu/media/news/2023/01/26presidentialsearchupdate.htm">HERE</a>.

Four finalists named in search for next NWMSU President

One of St. Joseph's many elementary schools will become an early childhood learning center next school year. &nbsp;

The Board of Education voted unanimously at their January meeting to convert Mark Twain Elementary to early childhood next school year. &nbsp;

Superintendent Gabe Edgar says currently there is a lack of early childhood education in the city.&nbsp;

"We have one facility right now at the old Lake Contrary school, you know it's going great but we face a bigger challenge than that," Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "If you look at percentages, about 44% of our students are ready to go to Kindergarten, and on a state average that average is about 65-66%."&nbsp;

Edgar says getting children educated early helps form routine, but also it could help solve major problems in the district, such as attendance.&nbsp;

"Ok, if you learn to come to school at three or four, then you're going to come to school at five right, because you've learned to come to school at three and four," Edgar explains. "And one of our biggest challenges is kindergarten attendance, kindergarten is one of the lowest attended grades that we have in the St. Joseph public school district, and often times is the worst."&nbsp;

Edgar says another goal in the district is with discipline and helping kids early on learn structure and discipline to carry into their school careers.&nbsp;

With the change, St. Joseph will have 13 elementary schools in the next school year. &nbsp;

Edgar says the board was only going to discuss the change during its meeting, with an eventual vote coming in February, but staff from Mark Twain urged them to push the vote.&nbsp;

"Because we received a letter from administration and the staff at Mark Twain that said listen if this is inevitable would you please just go ahead and make the vote so we can plan and get this behind us, and relieve some of the pressure," Edgar says. &nbsp;

School Board President David Foster read that letter during the meeting and the board went on to vote 6-0 for the change.&nbsp;

Students from Mark Twain are expected to be sent to one of five different schools next year, between Coleman, Skaith, Edison, Carden Park, and Parkway schools.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674752032307.png" alt="Mark Twain Elementary School will be converted to an early childhood learning center for next school year/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School district" />
 <figcaption>Mark Twain Elementary School will be converted to an early childhood learning center for next school year/ Photo courtesy of the St. Joseph School district</figcaption>
 </figure>By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;One of St. Joseph's many elementary schools will become an early childhood learning center next school year. &nbsp;The Board of Education voted unanimously at their January meeting to convert Mark Twain Elementary to early childhood next school year. &nbsp;Superintendent Gabe Edgar says currently there is a lack of early childhood education in the city.&nbsp;"We have one facility right now at the old Lake Contrary school, you know it's going great but we face a bigger challenge than that," Edgar tells host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. "If you look at percentages, about 44% of our students are ready to go to Kindergarten, and on a state average that average is about 65-66%."&nbsp;Edgar says getting children educated early helps form routine, but also it could help solve major problems in the district, such as attendance.&nbsp;"Ok, if you learn to come to school at three or four, then you're going to come to school at five right, because you've learned to come to school at three and four," Edgar explains. "And one of our biggest challenges is kindergarten attendance, kindergarten is one of the lowest attended grades that we have in the St. Joseph public school district, and often times is the worst."&nbsp;Edgar says another goal in the district is with discipline and helping kids early on learn structure and discipline to carry into their school careers.&nbsp;With the change, St. Joseph will have 13 elementary schools in the next school year. &nbsp;Edgar says the board was only going to discuss the change during its meeting, with an eventual vote coming in February, but staff from Mark Twain urged them to push the vote.&nbsp;"Because we received a letter from administration and the staff at Mark Twain that said listen if this is inevitable would you please just go ahead and make the vote so we can plan and get this behind us, and relieve some of the pressure," Edgar says. &nbsp;School Board President David Foster read that letter during the meeting and the board went on to vote 6-0 for the change.&nbsp;Students from Mark Twain are expected to be sent to one of five different schools next year, between Coleman, Skaith, Edison, Carden Park, and Parkway schools.&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1262023-Journal--Mark-Twain-Elementary-to-be-converted-to-early-childhood-education-e1u20j8" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

Mark Twain Elementary to become early childhood education center

A 29-year-old St. Joseph woman suffered serious injuries when
struck by a vehicle while running across the Belt Highway.

St. Joseph police report Alicia Andre was taken to the hospital
after the accident on the Belt, just off Frederick Avenue around midnight.

Police say the vehicle was traveling south on North Belt
Highway when it struck Andre, who was running west across the Belt.

The driver remained on the scene and cooperated with police.
No charges have been filed. The investigation continues.

This article has been updated since first published.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 29-year-old St. Joseph woman suffered serious injuries when
struck by a vehicle while running across the Belt Highway.St. Joseph police report Alicia Andre was taken to the hospital
after the accident on the Belt, just off Frederick Avenue around midnight.Police say the vehicle was traveling south on North Belt
Highway when it struck Andre, who was running west across the Belt.The driver remained on the scene and cooperated with police.
No charges have been filed. The investigation continues.This article has been updated since first published.

Young woman seriously injured in St. Joseph car-pedestrian accident (UPDATED)

St. Joseph police have identified the man found dead in a car
parked on the side of the road in the 500 block of South 20th Sunday
night.

Police report the victim was 48-year-old Jason Mays of St.
Joseph.

Officers responded to a call about 10:30 Sunday night about a deceased
person located in a vehicle.

The investigation continues. No charges have been filed in the
case.

By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph police have identified the man found dead in a car
parked on the side of the road in the 500 block of South 20th Sunday
night.Police report the victim was 48-year-old Jason Mays of St.
Joseph.Officers responded to a call about 10:30 Sunday night about a deceased
person located in a vehicle.The investigation continues. No charges have been filed in the
case.

St. Joseph police identify man found dead in car

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. 

Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. 

"Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. 

The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. 

In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." 

The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

The leadership of the Senate Agriculture Committee Wednesday announced a set of farm bill hearings. Senators Debbie Stabenow and John Boozman will hold the first hearing on February 1, titled. "Farm Bill 2023: Trade and Horticulture." The hearings will focus on the trade and horticulture titles of the farm bill. The first hearing will include testimony from USDA's Alexis Taylor, Jenny Lester Moffitt, and USAID's Sarah Charles. In a joint statement, Stabenow and Boozman say, "This is the first of many hearings the Committee has planned as we gear up for the 2023 Farm Bill," adding, "We are both looking forward to a collaborative process, working with all Senators to deliver a strong Farm Bill." The duo announced three other upcoming hearings: February 9 on Commodity Programs, Crop Insurance and Credit, February 16 on Nutrition Programs, and March 1 on Conservation and Forestry Programs. All hearings will be held in the committee’s hearing room.

Senate Ag plans hearings on farm bill trade and Horticulture titles

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. 

The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. 

The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. 

The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. 

The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. 

Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

The Consumer Brands Association endorsed a new, bipartisan bill, this week. The Safer Highways and Increased Performance for Interstate Trucking Act, or "SHIP IT Act," would boost trucking capacity, improve supply chain efficiency and keep costs down for consumers. The SHIP IT Act was introduced by U.S. Representatives Dusty Johnson, a South Dakota Republican, and Jim Costa, a California Democrat. The legislation aims to address supply chain pinch points by increasing shipping capacity, lessening burdens on truck drivers and providing incentives to recruit and retain new drivers. The bill also modernizes the emergency use of certain vehicle waivers, offers workforce grants for truck drivers, simplifies the commercial driver's license process and tackles truck parking concerns. Consumer Brands vice president of supply chain Tom Madrecki says, “Ultimately, each step to enhance our supply chains with the latest tools and technologies available will ensure operations run as seamlessly as possible despite future disruptions.”

Consumer Brands Association supports new trucking legislation

St. Joseph city officials welcome the public’s input as they
search for a new police chief.

The St. Joseph City Council hired a national search firm that
specializes in law enforcement.

City Manager Bryan Carter urges residents to go to the City of
St. Joseph website to give their opinion on the police chief search.

“We have a link to that survey out on the <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/">city’s website</a> right
now that just anyone in the community can jump on there and take,” Carter tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a really important tool that we’re
going to use to develop the candidate profile. So, it’s an important step one of
a multi-step process.”

Public input will be reviewed by the search firm, which will
use community comments in developing its candidate profile. Those comments will
be incorporated in the advertisement for a new chief.

Carter says it is all part of engaging the public in the vetting
process for the next police chief.

“What we want to see in our next police chief and we’ll be
getting some public input a little bit later about which person best matches
that ‘what we want to see’ component,” according to Carter, who adds city
officials will not see who made the comments, only the comments themselves.

Carter says it’s extremely important the city get this hire
right.

“That’s leadership of one of the most important departments,
if not the most important department, that the city has,” according to Carter. “And
we’d like to get that leadership settled. We’re balancing that against having a
good process that gets that community input and that gets quality candidates and
gets the candidates in here.”

Long-time St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally retired at
the end of September after serving in the role since 2006. Commander Dave Hart
has stepped in to serve on an interim basis. Hart is not a candidate for the
position.

Click <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1759">HERE</a> to take survey.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674743879490.jpeg" alt="File photo" />
 <figcaption>File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostSt. Joseph city officials welcome the public’s input as they
search for a new police chief.The St. Joseph City Council hired a national search firm that
specializes in law enforcement.City Manager Bryan Carter urges residents to go to the City of
St. Joseph website to give their opinion on the police chief search.“We have a link to that survey out on the <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/">city’s website</a> right
now that just anyone in the community can jump on there and take,” Carter tells
host Barry Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “It’s a really important tool that we’re
going to use to develop the candidate profile. So, it’s an important step one of
a multi-step process.”Public input will be reviewed by the search firm, which will
use community comments in developing its candidate profile. Those comments will
be incorporated in the advertisement for a new chief.Carter says it is all part of engaging the public in the vetting
process for the next police chief.“What we want to see in our next police chief and we’ll be
getting some public input a little bit later about which person best matches
that ‘what we want to see’ component,” according to Carter, who adds city
officials will not see who made the comments, only the comments themselves.Carter says it’s extremely important the city get this hire
right.“That’s leadership of one of the most important departments,
if not the most important department, that the city has,” according to Carter. “And
we’d like to get that leadership settled. We’re balancing that against having a
good process that gets that community input and that gets quality candidates and
gets the candidates in here.”Long-time St. Joseph Police Chief Chris Connally retired at
the end of September after serving in the role since 2006. Commander Dave Hart
has stepped in to serve on an interim basis. Hart is not a candidate for the
position.Click <a href="https://www.stjosephmo.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1759">HERE</a> to take survey.

St. Joseph seeks public input in search for new police chief

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. 

The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. 

In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” 

NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

The National Corn Growers Association praised the Biden administration for issuing an official rejection of a recent proposed compromise from Mexico on biotech corn imports into the country. The development came during a meeting between Mexican officials and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Secretary of Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Alexis Taylor and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative’s chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip. In a statement that came after the meeting, USTR and USDA said the changes offered by Mexico “are not sufficient and Mexico’s proposed approach, which is not grounded in science, still threatens to disrupt billions of dollars in bilateral agricultural trade, cause serious economic harm to U.S. farmers and Mexican livestock producers, and stifle important innovations needed to help producers respond to pressing climate and food security challenges.” NCGA President Tom Haag responded, “This is significant development and good news for corn growers.” Mexico announced in late 2020 a decree banning biotech corn into the country, beginning in early 2024.

Corn growers praise Biden officials for stance on biotech corn

A tax on recreational marijuana will be on the April ballot after the St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance.&nbsp;

The emergency ordinance passed unanimously.&nbsp; Initially, the city council wanted to wait and see how regulations played out.&nbsp;

But, Mayor John Josendale says the city council reversed course after seeing nearly 60 other municipalities with the measure on their April ballot. &nbsp;

"In doing that, we sat there and thought well a lot of people are putting it out there, there will be a lot of information about it, so this would probably be the most opportune time to put it out there for the voters to approve the tax to come through," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;

A provision in the ballot measure approved by voters gave cities the option to levy the tax.&nbsp; The ordinance calls for a three percent sales tax on marijuana sales.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Josendale says the money brought in from the sales tax will be added to the general fund which will provide flexibility.&nbsp;

"Because this is not earmarked for one particular area, but we may use it for education, you can use it for streets, you could use it for any number of things," Josendale explains. "But I think at this point in time the fact that it's going into the general fund leaves it a little open as to how you can use it."&nbsp;

Josendale says there is still a lot to learn about how legalizing marijuana will impact the city. The measure will be on the April 4th ballot.&nbsp;

Josendale says this tax is important because of the opportunities that it will present, which is why the ballot measure legalizing marijuana had a provision giving the cities the opportunity to add a tax.&nbsp;

"So that they would have funds in regards to some of the things they may have to do differently," Josendale says. "With regards to regulating it or dealing with it down the road."&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;A tax on recreational marijuana will be on the April ballot after the St. Joseph City Council passed an emergency ordinance.&nbsp;The emergency ordinance passed unanimously.&nbsp; Initially, the city council wanted to wait and see how regulations played out.&nbsp;But, Mayor John Josendale says the city council reversed course after seeing nearly 60 other municipalities with the measure on their April ballot. &nbsp;"In doing that, we sat there and thought well a lot of people are putting it out there, there will be a lot of information about it, so this would probably be the most opportune time to put it out there for the voters to approve the tax to come through," Josendale tells KFEQ/St. Joseph Post.&nbsp;A provision in the ballot measure approved by voters gave cities the option to levy the tax.&nbsp; The ordinance calls for a three percent sales tax on marijuana sales.&nbsp; &nbsp;Josendale says the money brought in from the sales tax will be added to the general fund which will provide flexibility.&nbsp;"Because this is not earmarked for one particular area, but we may use it for education, you can use it for streets, you could use it for any number of things," Josendale explains. "But I think at this point in time the fact that it's going into the general fund leaves it a little open as to how you can use it."&nbsp;Josendale says there is still a lot to learn about how legalizing marijuana will impact the city. The measure will be on the April 4th ballot.&nbsp;Josendale says this tax is important because of the opportunities that it will present, which is why the ballot measure legalizing marijuana had a provision giving the cities the opportunity to add a tax.&nbsp;"So that they would have funds in regards to some of the things they may have to do differently," Josendale says. "With regards to regulating it or dealing with it down the road."&nbsp;<div><iframe src="https://anchor.fm/kfeq-news/embed/episodes/1252023-Journal--April-ballot-will-feature-sales-tax-on-recreational-marijuana-after-all-in-St--Joseph-e1u0844" height="102px" width="400px" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>

St. Joseph City Council unanimously approves marijuana sales tax for April ballot

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association recently filed a Notice of Intent to sue the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

NCBA is planning the lawsuit over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. 

NCBA Associate Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johannes says, “The lesser prairie chicken only survives today because of the voluntary conservation efforts of ranchers,” adding, “There are numerous places where this listing goes seriously wrong and we are defending cattle producers against this overreaching, unscientific rule.” 

The listing was previously set to take effect at the end of January, but thanks to pressure on the Biden administration from NCBA and our allies in Congress, the rule was delayed by 60 days. 

The listing will now take effect on March 27, 2023, and the states included in the species’ range are Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association recently filed a Notice of Intent to sue the Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. NCBA is planning the lawsuit over the listing of the lesser prairie chicken under the Endangered Species Act. NCBA Associate Director of Government Affairs Sigrid Johannes says, “The lesser prairie chicken only survives today because of the voluntary conservation efforts of ranchers,” adding, “There are numerous places where this listing goes seriously wrong and we are defending cattle producers against this overreaching, unscientific rule.” The listing was previously set to take effect at the end of January, but thanks to pressure on the Biden administration from NCBA and our allies in Congress, the rule was delayed by 60 days. The listing will now take effect on March 27, 2023, and the states included in the species’ range are Kansas, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Colorado.

NCBA sues Biden Administration to overturn lesser prairie chicken listing

The loss of a loved one is hard, but a successful program in St. Joseph aims to help people overcome their grief. &nbsp;

GriefShare has been going for a number of years in St. Joseph.&nbsp; The program will return in February but will kick off this Sunday with the Loss of Spouse seminar. &nbsp;

Organizer Mary Noel Owens says those that come to the Loss of Spouse Seminar have been known to return for the GriefShare program.&nbsp;

"Most of them are excited to learn oh there are other people that feel just like I do, I'm not the only one, I'm not going crazy, this is a normal reaction for me, and these people are just like me they're crying and they're trying to cope and figure out what to do," Owens tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And immediately they feel that support."&nbsp;

GriefShare will begin on February 2nd at Brookfield Church in St. Joseph with program times at 10am or 6pm every Thursday. &nbsp;

For the first year a third opportunity will be presented at Three Oaks Hospice by Jennifer Kusilek on Tuesdays at 10am beginning February 7th.&nbsp;

Kusilek says after taking the GriefShare courses herself, and working in hospice, she knows how well the program works.&nbsp;

"It's more like growing through grief versus just letting it consume you," Kusilek says. "And having people there that are going through the same thing is just so helpful, so I'm looking forward to that."&nbsp;

Owens says for those reluctant to come to a class, she encourages them to just come attend just once. &nbsp;

"You don't have to say a word, you don't have to do a thing, just come and listen and you may find that it's a program that really can help you move through your grief," Owens explains. &nbsp;

Owens says she encourages those that do come to the class to at least attend three of the sessions.&nbsp;

"I tell them give me three times, at the end of three times if you decide this is not for me, I won't bug you anymore," Owens says. "But you just really need to come three times and try it."&nbsp;

The Loss of Spouse course, an introduction to the GriefShare program, will be held this Sunday at 2pm at Brookfield Church.&nbsp;

By MATT PIKE&nbsp;St. Joseph Post&nbsp;The loss of a loved one is hard, but a successful program in St. Joseph aims to help people overcome their grief. &nbsp;GriefShare has been going for a number of years in St. Joseph.&nbsp; The program will return in February but will kick off this Sunday with the Loss of Spouse seminar. &nbsp;Organizer Mary Noel Owens says those that come to the Loss of Spouse Seminar have been known to return for the GriefShare program.&nbsp;"Most of them are excited to learn oh there are other people that feel just like I do, I'm not the only one, I'm not going crazy, this is a normal reaction for me, and these people are just like me they're crying and they're trying to cope and figure out what to do," Owens tells KFEQ Hotline host Barry Birr. "And immediately they feel that support."&nbsp;GriefShare will begin on February 2nd at Brookfield Church in St. Joseph with program times at 10am or 6pm every Thursday. &nbsp;For the first year a third opportunity will be presented at Three Oaks Hospice by Jennifer Kusilek on Tuesdays at 10am beginning February 7th.&nbsp;Kusilek says after taking the GriefShare courses herself, and working in hospice, she knows how well the program works.&nbsp;"It's more like growing through grief versus just letting it consume you," Kusilek says. "And having people there that are going through the same thing is just so helpful, so I'm looking forward to that."&nbsp;Owens says for those reluctant to come to a class, she encourages them to just come attend just once. &nbsp;"You don't have to say a word, you don't have to do a thing, just come and listen and you may find that it's a program that really can help you move through your grief," Owens explains. &nbsp;Owens says she encourages those that do come to the class to at least attend three of the sessions.&nbsp;"I tell them give me three times, at the end of three times if you decide this is not for me, I won't bug you anymore," Owens says. "But you just really need to come three times and try it."&nbsp;The Loss of Spouse course, an introduction to the GriefShare program, will be held this Sunday at 2pm at Brookfield Church.&nbsp;

Loss hits hard, GriefShare hopes to help

Guess How Many Eggs Are In The Jar-Win $107.50 Worth Of Eggs

A 30-year-old St. Joseph man has been sentenced to 15 years in
prison for driving drunk and causing a head-on fatal crash on the Belt Highway
a year ago that killed a pregnant woman and her unborn child.

Steven Ayala pleaded guilty last month to driving while
intoxicated and crashing into the vehicle driven by 26-year-old Savannah Domann,
killing her and her unborn child, Raydyn Kay Erickson.

Court documents indicate Ayala’s blood alcohol content was 0.15, nearly double the legal limit. Ayala also confessed to having had
used narcotics and sedatives prior to the wreck on South Belt Highway near Sacramento
Street.

Buchanan County Circuit Judge Pat Robb handed down the maximum
sentence for the charge.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/1/1642450557784.jpeg" alt="Steven Ayala/Buchanan County Sheriff's photo" />
 <figcaption>Steven Ayala/Buchanan County Sheriff's photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostA 30-year-old St. Joseph man has been sentenced to 15 years in
prison for driving drunk and causing a head-on fatal crash on the Belt Highway
a year ago that killed a pregnant woman and her unborn child.Steven Ayala pleaded guilty last month to driving while
intoxicated and crashing into the vehicle driven by 26-year-old Savannah Domann,
killing her and her unborn child, Raydyn Kay Erickson.Court documents indicate Ayala’s blood alcohol content was 0.15, nearly double the legal limit. Ayala also confessed to having had
used narcotics and sedatives prior to the wreck on South Belt Highway near Sacramento
Street.Buchanan County Circuit Judge Pat Robb handed down the maximum
sentence for the charge.

St. Joseph man sentenced for crash that claimed life of mother and unborn child

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.&nbsp;

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner tractor driven by James M. Peterson, 52, Manhattan, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.

The vehicle changed lanes into the driving lane and rear-ended a 2012 Nissan Maxima driven by Cheryl L. Carpenter, 56, St. Joseph. After impact the Nissan slid off the road into the median and struck the cable barrier.

Buchanan County EMS transported Carpenter to Mosaic Life Care. Peterson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

BUCHANAN COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 6:30p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.&nbsp;The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2001 Freightliner tractor driven by James M. Peterson, 52, Manhattan, was northbound on Interstate 29 just south of the downtown St. Joseph exit.The vehicle changed lanes into the driving lane and rear-ended a 2012 Nissan Maxima driven by Cheryl L. Carpenter, 56, St. Joseph. After impact the Nissan slid off the road into the median and struck the cable barrier.Buchanan County EMS transported Carpenter to Mosaic Life Care. Peterson was not injured. Both drivers were properly restrained, according to the MSHP.

St. Joseph woman injured after rear-end crash

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Nissan Sentra driven by Melissa R. Fisher, 37, St. Joseph, was westbound at a high rate of speed on U.S. 36 at Interstate 29.

The car traveled off the north side of the road off an exit ramp and overturned.

Buchanan County EMS transported Fisher to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

BUCHANAN COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 12:30p.m. Monday in Buchanan County.The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported a 2021 Nissan Sentra driven by Melissa R. Fisher, 37, St. Joseph, was westbound at a high rate of speed on U.S. 36 at Interstate 29.The car traveled off the north side of the road off an exit ramp and overturned.Buchanan County EMS transported Fisher to Mosaic Life Care. She was not wearing a seat belt, according to the MSHP.&nbsp;

St. Joseph woman hospitalized after car overturns

Rural broadband will take a big step after receiving funding from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. &nbsp;

Gov. Mike Parson announced today that $261 million has been awarded to 60 recipients for projects to expand and improve Internet access across Missouri, including three major northwest Missouri projects.&nbsp;

United Services has been awarded $8.2-million to provide broadband service to Andrew, Buchanan, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth Counties. Green Hills Telephone Corporation has been awarded $6.2-million for Caldwell County.&nbsp; Mid-State Services has been awarded $6.2-million for Daviess County. &nbsp;

“We’re proud to announce the recipients of the Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program, which represents a major step forward in strengthening Missouri’s internet connectivity,” Governor Parson said in a news release. “Our goal with American Rescue Plan Act funds is to make investments that have a lasting, positive impact for Missourians statewide."&nbsp;

"Today, we have accomplished that for broadband expansion, which is vital to supporting education, health care, business, and agriculture in today’s economy.”&nbsp;

“I’m incredibly proud of the hard work and careful consideration the Office of Broadband Development team contributed to the success of this grant program,” said BJ Tanksley, Director of the Office of Broadband Development in the news release. “We truly believe these investments will be transformational for broadband expansion in Missouri."&nbsp;

"As we continue striving for a fully-connected future, we look forward to this program’s results and appreciate the stakeholder support that helped make it possible.”&nbsp;

By MATT PIKESt. Joseph PostRural broadband will take a big step after receiving funding from the Missouri Department of Economic Development. &nbsp;Gov. Mike Parson announced today that $261 million has been awarded to 60 recipients for projects to expand and improve Internet access across Missouri, including three major northwest Missouri projects.&nbsp;United Services has been awarded $8.2-million to provide broadband service to Andrew, Buchanan, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth Counties. Green Hills Telephone Corporation has been awarded $6.2-million for Caldwell County.&nbsp; Mid-State Services has been awarded $6.2-million for Daviess County. &nbsp;“We’re proud to announce the recipients of the Broadband Infrastructure Grant Program, which represents a major step forward in strengthening Missouri’s internet connectivity,” Governor Parson said in a news release. “Our goal with American Rescue Plan Act funds is to make investments that have a lasting, positive impact for Missourians statewide."&nbsp;"Today, we have accomplished that for broadband expansion, which is vital to supporting education, health care, business, and agriculture in today’s economy.”&nbsp;“I’m incredibly proud of the hard work and careful consideration the Office of Broadband Development team contributed to the success of this grant program,” said BJ Tanksley, Director of the Office of Broadband Development in the news release. “We truly believe these investments will be transformational for broadband expansion in Missouri."&nbsp;"As we continue striving for a fully-connected future, we look forward to this program’s results and appreciate the stakeholder support that helped make it possible.”&nbsp;

New funding will help in the journey to bring better internet to Missouri

The Buchanan County Courthouse needs a new roof.

And this roofing project is unlike most roofing
projects. County officials have to comply with historic preservation rules as
they seek to tear off the old roof and put on a new one, a project likely to
cost more than a million dollars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674506801445.jpeg" alt="The Buchanan County Courthouse/file photo" />
 <figcaption>The Buchanan County Courthouse/file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By BRENT MARTINSt. Joseph PostThe Buchanan County Courthouse needs a new roof.And this roofing project is unlike most roofing
projects. County officials have to comply with historic preservation rules as
they seek to tear off the old roof and put on a new one, a project likely to
cost more than a million dollars.Presiding County Commissioner Scott Nelson says
the roof is showing its age.“But there’s some leaks,” Nelson tells host Barry
Birr on the KFEQ Hotline. “You go up into the attic of the courthouse and like
any old building, what do you think you find? A couple of buckets catching
(water). Kind of see some air, see some sunshine coming through; probably not
good.”Nelson says the County Commission will seek bids
on the project that has an estimated price tag of $1.2 million.Nelson points out, due to its historic nature,
any repairs to the Buchanan County Courthouse must comply with historic
preservation standards.Nelson says though the courthouse is old, it is
still in very good shape.“There’s constant maintenance on any old building,”
Nelson says. “You never know what it’s going to be. But, over the last probably
four or five years all the interior guts of the place, the heating elements,
the cooling elements, the furnaces, that’s all got replaced. It’s all up to
date.”The work must replace the roof, seal the dome,
and make other needed repairs to the Buchanan County Courthouse, which was
built in 1873.

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