Fall 2005 Focus Newsletter

FALL 2005

Emergency Preparedness

When Disaster Strikes You Can Be

survive and recover from disaster is a task that should be top priority for all. for priority top be should that task a is disaster from recover and survive Local, state and federal

services work to provide public safety and emergency assistance. Yet, preparing in advance to to advance in preparing Yet, assistance. emergency and safety public provide to work services Prepare for the worst and plan for natural as well as “man-made” disas- agencies have plans to protect

During a catastrophic event, local government agencies, law enforcement, fire and medical medical and fire enforcement, law agencies, government local event, catastrophic a During the best. Diminishing the effects of a ters. the public, but citizens are still

major disaster and planning the most Community Preparedness

On responsible for their own safety

r e e t s s a s s i i D r o o F F g n n i i r a p e e r P

r e e t s s a s s i i D r o o F F g n n i i r a p e e r P Focus efficient response is the cornerstone Since 1994, the St. Charles County until help arrives. At home, of emergency management. Local Emergency Planning school, work and even in our cars, The devastation of recent hurri- Committee (LEPC) has worked to we need to know what to do in an canes Katrina, Rita, and Wilma clear- assist our community in preparation emergency and where to go.

ly demonstrates the need for advance and response to hazardous material The Missouri Department of AL2005 FALL incidents and, more Health and Senior Services Ready recently, expanded its in 3 program is an easy way to focus to include other cat- learn to prepare for an emergency. astrophic emergencies. LEPC Chairman Rod Ready in 3 includes these steps: Zerr frames the transition 1. Create a plan for you, your as a natural progression family and your business. that is necessary in 2. Prepare a kit for home, car today’s environment. and work. 3. Listen for details about what to do and where to go St. Charles County Government PRSRT STD during an actual emergency. 100 North Third Street ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE PAID The LEPC and emergency St. Charles, MO 63301 ST. CHARLES, MO response teams work to No one wants to think about PERMIT NO. 175 mitigate the effects of accidents or disasters, but being floods, storms, tornadoes, prepared for an emergency can and other disasters that help protect you and your family. occur in St. Charles County. Emergency preparation means preparation when responding doing as much as possible before in the wake of catastrophe. an emergency happens. Working And, as we have seen, local together, we can be prepared and governments need a variety of save lives. assistance to answer the needs of “The ability to respond to the effects For more on how to be many when resources may be few. of a HAZMAT disaster can easily Ready in 3, visit the St. Charles POSTAL CUSTOMER That is why St. Charles County translate to other situations such as County Department of Community Government, area cities, local emer- the natural disasters that are more Health and the Environment at gency services and other agencies likely to occur in our area and others www.scchealth.org. continually work together when that may result from incidents of preparing for emergency response to See Emergencies, page 7

County Executive’s Message ...... 2 Council Comments ...... 5 New Voting Equipment ...... 3 County Health E-Newsletter ...... 5 Home Based Heroes ...... 4 Family Arena Events ...... 6 FALL 2005

Emergency Preparedness

When Disaster Strikes You Can Be

survive and recover from disaster is a task that should be top priority for all. for priority top be should that task a is disaster from recover and survive Local, state and federal

major disaster and planning the most Community Preparedness

On responsible for their own safety

r e e t s s a s s i i D r o o F F g n n i i r a p e e r P

County Executive’s Message ...... 2 Council Comments ...... 5 New Voting Equipment ...... 3 County Health E-Newsletter ...... 5 Home Based Heroes ...... 4 Family Arena Events ...... 6 Executive Message Emergencies... Each year, tornadoes, industrial failure or deliberate crimi- floods and severe storms bring Guest Commentary on Eminent Domain nal acts,” said Zerr, director of St. various levels of damage to Charles County’s Emergency areas of our state. Fortunately, One of the most critical issues facing the future of our county, our region and our state is Management Division. St. Charles County has not yet the subject of eminent domain abuse. Excerpts of an article by Senator Chuck Gross are LEPC members include highly- experienced the level of reprinted here because it speaks so well to the issue. — Joe Ortwerth, County Executive trained first-responders and experts in destruction that renders an various collateral fields who have the entire community helpless as If you thought your mortgage development guidelines. In other demnation experience to help this county brace seen in the South following banker was the only one with a vested words, it is now up to the Missouri authority to for catastrophe. The committee Hurricane Katrina. interest in your home or business and legislature to restrict the power of emi- private entities for private uses, not works to define a strategy in advance Although the LEPC and that as long as you paid the mortgage nent domain in our state to only those public ones. They also complained of to help smooth recovery efforts. emergency response agencies on time you wouldn’t be forced out, instances of true public need. A gov- having limited resources and thus Such functional planning is neces- are in a constant state of plan- think again. Unless your property is ernment’s condemnation of private being outmatched in their battles sary because no one can foresee the ning and preparedness, the producing the highest amount of tax property that is clearly for the benefit against the resources of a city intent The aftermath of a tornado left many multitude of dangers that occur in the upheaval of a major emergency can revenue possible for your local gov- of private enterprise is a gross abuse on condemnation and private develop- without shelter in April 2000. wake of disaster. However, emer- take a toll. The ability of a community. It is suggested that you prepare an ernment, you could be a developer’s of government power and relegates ers whose costs were likely to be cov- gency service and response teams can ty to pull together and respond is best emergency supply kit to survive at proposal away from cardboard boxes average citizens to the status of pawns. ered by tax giveaways. assume certain needs—the interrup- measured by the amount of advance least the first 72 hours following a dis- and packing tape. The highest court One compelling witness shared her tion of communications, utility serv- preparation. aster in case assistance is delayed. in our nation has put your property up family’s own story of working hard ices and transportation routes—and Prepare Yourself (See Ready in 3 information on page for grabs. and sacrificing to have a nice home in devise plans to address these The sheer number of risks and the 1.) A tremendous blow to property which to raise their family. Their resources that are critical to expedit- failure of vital systems resulting from Contact the Division of Emergency rights and to freedom itself was dealt entire lives were to be uprooted and ing response to known needs such as a catastrophe may hinder local agency Management at 636-949-3023 to by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision everything they had worked for over food, shelter and medical attention. abilities to respond immediately to cit- schedule an emergency preparedness last month in Kelo vs. City of New the years taken in exchange for a izen needs. For this reason, individu- training program. London. The court ruled that individ- price approved by a court. All als should make their own family’s ual property rights are inferior to the because a private company envisioned emergency preparedness a top priori- rights of private eco- an opportunity for profit. “I’m not nomic developers who afraid of terrorists these days,” she LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE have acquired govern- said. “I’m afraid of developers and The St. Charles County LEPC represents the entire community. Its members ment approval. my own city’s mayor and aldermen.” work to provide comprehensive plans for response to disasters. Members include: Should a private The attraction of In its work, the House committee developer see an higher tax revenue reviewed a five-year study of emi- could overshadow Law Enforcement Fire & Rescue Services Hazardous Material Responders opportunity to profit your property rights nent-domain policies across the nation Public Works Utility Companies Emergency Medical Services from your property, he in the eminent that identified Missouri as having one Business & Industry Volunteer Organizations Community Health Services needs only a majority domain battle. of the worst records of abuse. The Citizens can learn skills to prepare Emergency Management Environmental Services Hospitals & Medical Facilities on the local governing study, by the Institute of Justice in for a variety of emergencies. Emergency Dispatch Centers body to agree in order to gain the In the fall of 2003, a Missouri Washington, D.C., found that local power to buy it from you. House interim committee on eminent governments in Missouri regularly Eminent Domain... The only saving grace of the domain held public hearings around condemned property for the benefit of nent-domain power and that state ing from pervasive poverty, decay and the power of government over every Supreme Court’s decision appears to the state, one of them in St. Charles private parties, that private redevelop- courts did not exercise prudent judg- distress. Rather than rewarding one individual. Your rights to liberty and be the ability of states to protect them- County. Property owners were angry ment corporations were given emi- ment in questions of public use. business at the expense of other busi- to enjoy the fruits of your labor have selves by enacting tougher economic with local governments for giving con- See Eminent Domain, page 7 To reset the historical and rightful nesses or the rights of private citizens, been vastly diminished. balance of power between govern- Missouri’s economic development pro- St. Charles County Government is ment and citizens in Missouri, we grams should focus on freeing busi- — Chuck Gross is a publication of St. Charles County Government should start by better defining what a ness from unnecessary burdens. Missouri committed to providing exceptional Address comments to: legitimate “public use” must be Those who think the Kelo decision Senator FOCUS Newsletter public service to its citizens through Governmental Communications Department before private property may be taken. isn’t relevant to them would do well to 23rd District 201 North Second Street, Suite 227 consider the much greater impact this principles of character, St. Charles, MO 63301 We also must strictly define “blight” 636-949-1890 Fax 636-949-1895 —frequently used as a justification decision portends for every American. www.saintcharlescounty.org professionalism and conscience. [email protected] for the use of eminent domain—to The court did not just put citizens’ pri- describe only those areas truly suffer- vate property in jeopardy, it expanded

2 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 7 The Family Arena Voter Information Great Winter Events For All Audiences County to Unveil New Voting Process Check out these exciting events Figure Skating scheduled for November 29 and St. Charles County voters will next to the selected candidate’s name, scheduled at the St. Charles Family Championships includes “Pretty Vegas,” debuted by notice something new when casting or the oval next to the “yes” or “no” Arena this winter! January 8-11. J.D. on the series. their ballots next year. Punch cards on a ballot issue. The paper ballots BILLIKENS More than 250 Rock Star:INXS series runner-up are out, replaced by optical scan bal- are then scanned into a computer that See the St. Louis University Men’s figure skaters Marty Casey will open the show. lots and touch screen voting systems. reads and tabulates the selections. Basketball team tip-off against Eastern from across the Tickets are on sale now for $42, In response to the aftermath of the The optical scan machine also Illinois University in its regular-sea- nation will com- $34.50 and $27 ($2 facility fee 2000 presidential election, Congress detects ballots on which voters have Rich Chrismer son opener at the Family Arena on pete in the included). passed, and President Bush signed marked too many choices for one bal- Director of Elections Tuesday, November 22. Led by Head novice, junior RIVER OTTERS into law, the Help America Vote Act lot issue. This is called an overvote. cost of the optical scan and touch Coach Brad Soderberg, the Billikens and senior levels The Missouri River Otters season (HAVA). This extensive election Because the computer is not capable screen machines totals $1,642,000. look forward to their inaugural season for 12 national Photo by Harvath is in full-swing and tickets are on-sale reform changes how elections are of knowing a voter’s intent, the ballot The federal portion of this cost is in the Atlantic 10 Conference and titles in ladies singles, men’s singles, for all regular season games through conducted, including the reorganiza- is rejected and spoiled. The voter will $1,279,650. St. Charles County will seek to impress, “Hopefully we can pairs and dance. Winners go on to April 2006. The team will host the tion and recoding of voter registra- receive a “second chance” ballot absorb the balance. The county is surprise them with our athleticism, represent the United States at the United Hockey League’s All-Star tions to comply with federal require- allowing them to vote again. able to fund this purchase from the quickness and 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. game at the Family Arena January 25. ments and Missouri’s new centralized proceeds of the sale of the water plant toughness.” For a complete list of champi- Go to www.riverotters.com for details. voter registration database. to Public Water Supply District No. 2. Lower bowl onship events at The Family Arena, MORE EVENTS Most HAVA requirements have “This is an historic time for St. seats are $23, visit www.familyarena.com or call our Other events coming to the Family been implemented and the St. Charles Charles County. When we begin upper bowl event hotline at 636-896-4242. Single Arena include the return of the County Election Authority continues using this equipment in early 2006, it seats are $13. session tickets are $10-$15. World’s Toughest Bulls and Broncs to work toward full compliance by the will be the first time in 25 years that Upper bowl INXS January 20 and 21 and “Let’s Get It January 1, 2006 deadline. county residents will vote on some- seats are also The Family Arena is excited to On” boxing on January 26, Extreme “The federal government allocated thing other than punch card voting available at a host INXS, live in concert, on International Ice Racing February 26 over $3 billion for the purchase and equipment. The Election Authority group discount February 1! In and the ‘64th Annual update of voting equipment. After a Optical scan units will replace punch will assist voters, prepare and train Photo by David W. Preston of $10 each. September, the multi- Moolah Shrine Circus detailed analysis, two new machines card tabulators used in St. Charles election judges during this transition, County elections since 1980. JINGLEFEST platinum rock band April 27-30. Watch our were selected for use in St. Charles and continue to make our office Four amazing country bands join revealed their new lead website for additional County, a vote reader/tabulator and a The Diebold Touch Screen voting accountable, the process transparent WIL 92.3 FM at the Family Arena on singer, J.D. Fortune, on information on these and touch screen voting machine,” said machine was chosen to comply with and always fair to the voters of St. December 16 for its 2005 JingleFest the finale of the electri- other events at the St. Rich Chrismer, director of Elections the HAVA requirement that each Charles County,” said Mr. Chrismer. celebration. The fresh new trio fying summer TV series, Charles County Family for St. Charles County. polling place have equipment that For information on voting in St. Sugarland headlines the event. Hit “Rock Star:INXS.” Arena. The Diebold AccuVote Optical allows visually impaired, blind or Charles County, contact the Election single “Baby Girl” earned the group The highly anticipat- www.familyarena.com Scan reader/tabulator reads ballots other disabled voters to vote independ- Authority at 636-949-7550. an American Music Awards nomina- ed release of INXS’ new that voters mark by filling in an oval ently. Touch screen machines per- tion for Favorite New Artist, as well album “SWITCH” is mit people to vote by touching a New Voting Procedure as nominations for three categories in candidate name or a ballot issue At-a-Glance the upcoming Country Music Awards. Tickets for all Family Arena events can be purchased at the Family Arena on the screen, similar to a bank Live performances from Keith box office, MetroTix outlets, by phone at 314-534-1111 or online at ATM machine. Headphones are The voting process will change in 2006. Upon www.MetroTix.com. Visit www.familyarena.com to subscribe to our arriving at the polls, the steps that most voters Anderson, Jason Aldine and Hot monthly E-Newsletter. used to guide visually impaired will take to cast a ballot are: Apple Pie make JingleFest the holiday voters in the process. Show proof of identity celebration to see. Proceeds benefit Now through April ‘06 January Missouri requires voting Missouri River Otters 25 UHL All-Star Game Verify name & info in voter registration ledger the Special Olympics. WIL is November 26 Let’s Get It On Boxing machines to print a paper trail of Receive the new optical scan ballot handling all tickets and 22 Billikens Season Opener February these votes and also store them on event promotions. Listen to December 1 INXS in concert a memory card. The paper record Proceed to voting booth 16 WIL 92 FM’s JingleFest the station for details. 26 Extreme International Ice Racing is used to verify results and is Mark ballot selections with marker January April FIGURE SKATING 8-11 U.S. Figure Skating Championships available for possible recounts. 27-30 64th Annual Moolah Shrine Circus St. Charles County is upgrading Proceed to optical scan reader to verify & The Family Arena will also host a The new equipment is funded, record your vote 20-21 World’s Toughest Rodeo all voting equipment to comply portion of the 2006 State Farm U.S. with the Help America Vote Act. in part, by a federal grant. The

6 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 3 Home-Based Heroes Celebration Council Comments Introducing Councilman Joe McCulloch

have our own private road. room gone bad, scenes from horror DistrictDistrict Unfortunately, the traffic that con- films and more that was simply amaz- 55 tinues west on Highway 94 becomes ing. The faint of heart and those who November 20, 1 – 4 p.m. jammed at Harvester Road where were just plain scared did not have to Joe McCulloch Phase I ends. Phase II is to continue worry. Most of the monsters were Youth Activity Park along Highway 94 from Harvester firefighters and EMTs who could Youth Activity Park Thoughts From Road to Mid Rivers Mall Drive. assist “hotel guests” when they had a District 5 Funding should be in place to begin heart attack. Celebrating Home-Based Heroes I hope everyone living in the eastern work on Phase II from Jungs Station The Haunted Hotel was open week- part of the 5th District who must trav- Road to Harvester Road in the near ends through Halloween and all pro- With the country at war, and the and know that they are supported by el to and from St. Louis County has future. ceeds went to benefit ShowMe sacrifice and heroism of our service their family, friends and the commu- taken advantage of Highway 364 WWW.HAUNTEDHOTEL.ORG in Aquatics and Fitness, Backstoppers people splashed across newspapers nity at large.” 7535 by November 18. Youth over 10 (Page Extension). While traffic orange and black found atop the old and Special Operations Task Force. and television, it can be easy to forget St. Charles County Parks is work- years old should bring their military counts now show the volume has Noah’s Ark Hotel and Restaurant was the smallest of heroes with the ing with various local veterans groups ID’s to obtain their Trooper Packs. increased significantly since it just a prelude to what was found biggest of hearts. The St. Charles to produce the Trooper Packs. The Parents of children under 10 years old Joe McCulloch was elected in April opened, there are still no delays like inside. Area firefighters and EMTs of this year to serve the remainder County Parks Department invites area National Guard Family Assistance may show their own military ID’s for we used to experience on Highway converted the first floor of the vacant of the term for County Council residents to celebrate our own home- program is getting word about the Trooper Packs. 70. In addition, traffic volume has hotel into the best haunted house in District #5. He is an attorney and based heroes, the children of military event to military families. The Youth Activity Park will be decreased on the other three bridges the area. They took their experience, partner with the law firm Todt, Ryan families, at a special holiday event Charlene Robinson, Jefferson open for free admission and, in addi- crossing the Missouri River. Those of coupled it with their imagination, and & McCulloch in St. Charles. planned at the county’s new Youth Barracks Family Assistance Center tion to special event activities, pro- us who live off Muegge Road seem to crafted the most realistic operating Activity Park. coordinator, emphasizes the impor- vides a 33,000 square-foot skatepark On Sunday, November 20 from 1 tance of an event of this kind and the (helmets required), indoor/outdoor p.m. to 4 p.m., youth and families of benefits of acknowledging children rock climbing walls, basketball and service men and women are invited to with deployed parents. sand volleyball courts and other recre- Get the Latest Health E-News spend the afternoon at the Youth “As members of families in which ational opportunities. The park is Activity Park in Dardenne Prairie. one or both parents are deployed, located at 7801 Highway N in Electronically By E-mail or Web The department has 200 “Trooper whether state-side or overseas, these Dardenne Prairie. Packs,” backpacks consisting of children make daily sacrifices as they Call 636-949-7535 or visit For the latest information on community health, pet, the web-based goodies suitable for heroes, for the undergo many life changes,” Ms. www.stccparks.org for more details. environmental and emergency management issues in St. newsletter is a brave youth of deployed troops to Robinson said. “The level of responsi- Charles County, be sure to check out Health E-News! natural next step show the community’s appreciation bilities increases while the direct Health E-News is a free, web-based, monthly newsletter in delivering our for their strength. Fun games, crafts, attention and affection decreases. It is Donations to Military available online at www.scchealth.org. Have Health E- message and will food and a visit from Santa will also extremely important for the communi- Prepackaged snack foods News delivered straight to your email inbox - subscribe be a convenient be provided at the celebration. ty to acknowledge the sacrifices and Toiletries (razors, shaving cream, today at www.scchealth.org! way to keep “We feel it is important to courage of these children.” shampoo, conditioner, etc.) Health E-News offers information and news from all county residents acknowledge the bravery, strength The public is welcome to join in four divisions of the St. Charles County Department of informed on Clothing (socks, t-shirts, and devotion to family and country the celebration. The St. Charles Community Health and the Environment including the department issues hats, bandannas, etc.) that these youth display while their County Parks Department will be Divisions of Emergency Management, Environmental and programs. The loved ones are away,” said Bettie accepting toys to be donated to local Games (playing cards, CD Services, Humane Services and Public Health. 24-hour web presence Yahn-Kramer, director of the St. charities and items to ship overseas to players, balls, board games, etc.) According to Gil Copley, Director of the Department of makes it convenient for citizens to access Health E-News.” Charles County Parks Department. troops for the holiday season (see box St. Charles County will determine Community Health and the Environment, “We have imple- For more information on Health E-News or other “Many youth are expected to ‘hold for appropriate items). the items suitable for mailing. mented numerous face-to-face, educational programs in the services available at the St. Charles County Department of down the fort’ while one or both of Military families with youth who Visit our website for a complete last year that reach out to the community in a variety of Community Health and the Environment, visit their parents are away. November 20 would like to attend on November 20 list of suggested items. settings ranging from schools to civic groups and service www.scchealth.org or call 636-949-7400. will be a day to celebrate their are asked to RSVP to the St. Charles www.stccparks.org clubs. With the popularity of the Internet, the release of courage. We want them to have fun County Parks Department at 636-949-

4 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 5 Home-Based Heroes Celebration Council Comments Introducing Councilman Joe McCulloch

4 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 5 The Family Arena Voter Information Great Winter Events For All Audiences County to Unveil New Voting Process Check out these exciting events Figure Skating scheduled for November 29 and St. Charles County voters will next to the selected candidate’s name, scheduled at the St. Charles Family Championships includes “Pretty Vegas,” debuted by notice something new when casting or the oval next to the “yes” or “no” Arena this winter! January 8-11. J.D. on the series. their ballots next year. Punch cards on a ballot issue. The paper ballots BILLIKENS More than 250 Rock Star:INXS series runner-up are out, replaced by optical scan bal- are then scanned into a computer that See the St. Louis University Men’s figure skaters Marty Casey will open the show. lots and touch screen voting systems. reads and tabulates the selections. Basketball team tip-off against Eastern from across the Tickets are on sale now for $42, In response to the aftermath of the The optical scan machine also Illinois University in its regular-sea- nation will com- $34.50 and $27 ($2 facility fee 2000 presidential election, Congress detects ballots on which voters have Rich Chrismer son opener at the Family Arena on pete in the included). passed, and President Bush signed marked too many choices for one bal- Director of Elections Tuesday, November 22. Led by Head novice, junior RIVER OTTERS into law, the Help America Vote Act lot issue. This is called an overvote. cost of the optical scan and touch Coach Brad Soderberg, the Billikens and senior levels The Missouri River Otters season (HAVA). This extensive election Because the computer is not capable screen machines totals $1,642,000. look forward to their inaugural season for 12 national Photo by Harvath is in full-swing and tickets are on-sale reform changes how elections are of knowing a voter’s intent, the ballot The federal portion of this cost is in the Atlantic 10 Conference and titles in ladies singles, men’s singles, for all regular season games through conducted, including the reorganiza- is rejected and spoiled. The voter will $1,279,650. St. Charles County will seek to impress, “Hopefully we can pairs and dance. Winners go on to April 2006. The team will host the tion and recoding of voter registra- receive a “second chance” ballot absorb the balance. The county is surprise them with our athleticism, represent the United States at the United Hockey League’s All-Star tions to comply with federal require- allowing them to vote again. able to fund this purchase from the quickness and 2006 Winter Olympic Games in Italy. game at the Family Arena January 25. ments and Missouri’s new centralized proceeds of the sale of the water plant toughness.” For a complete list of champi- Go to www.riverotters.com for details. voter registration database. to Public Water Supply District No. 2. Lower bowl onship events at The Family Arena, MORE EVENTS Most HAVA requirements have “This is an historic time for St. seats are $23, visit www.familyarena.com or call our Other events coming to the Family been implemented and the St. Charles Charles County. When we begin upper bowl event hotline at 636-896-4242. Single Arena include the return of the County Election Authority continues using this equipment in early 2006, it seats are $13. session tickets are $10-$15. World’s Toughest Bulls and Broncs to work toward full compliance by the will be the first time in 25 years that Upper bowl INXS January 20 and 21 and “Let’s Get It January 1, 2006 deadline. county residents will vote on some- seats are also The Family Arena is excited to On” boxing on January 26, Extreme “The federal government allocated thing other than punch card voting available at a host INXS, live in concert, on International Ice Racing February 26 over $3 billion for the purchase and equipment. The Election Authority group discount February 1! In and the ‘64th Annual update of voting equipment. After a Optical scan units will replace punch will assist voters, prepare and train Photo by David W. Preston of $10 each. September, the multi- Moolah Shrine Circus detailed analysis, two new machines card tabulators used in St. Charles election judges during this transition, County elections since 1980. JINGLEFEST platinum rock band April 27-30. Watch our were selected for use in St. Charles and continue to make our office Four amazing country bands join revealed their new lead website for additional County, a vote reader/tabulator and a The Diebold Touch Screen voting accountable, the process transparent WIL 92.3 FM at the Family Arena on singer, J.D. Fortune, on information on these and touch screen voting machine,” said machine was chosen to comply with and always fair to the voters of St. December 16 for its 2005 JingleFest the finale of the electri- other events at the St. Rich Chrismer, director of Elections the HAVA requirement that each Charles County,” said Mr. Chrismer. celebration. The fresh new trio fying summer TV series, Charles County Family for St. Charles County. polling place have equipment that For information on voting in St. Sugarland headlines the event. Hit “Rock Star:INXS.” Arena. The Diebold AccuVote Optical allows visually impaired, blind or Charles County, contact the Election single “Baby Girl” earned the group The highly anticipat- www.familyarena.com Scan reader/tabulator reads ballots other disabled voters to vote independ- Authority at 636-949-7550. an American Music Awards nomina- ed release of INXS’ new that voters mark by filling in an oval ently. Touch screen machines per- tion for Favorite New Artist, as well album “SWITCH” is mit people to vote by touching a New Voting Procedure as nominations for three categories in candidate name or a ballot issue At-a-Glance the upcoming Country Music Awards. Tickets for all Family Arena events can be purchased at the Family Arena on the screen, similar to a bank Live performances from Keith box office, MetroTix outlets, by phone at 314-534-1111 or online at ATM machine. Headphones are The voting process will change in 2006. Upon www.MetroTix.com. Visit www.familyarena.com to subscribe to our arriving at the polls, the steps that most voters Anderson, Jason Aldine and Hot monthly E-Newsletter. used to guide visually impaired will take to cast a ballot are: Apple Pie make JingleFest the holiday voters in the process. Show proof of identity celebration to see. Proceeds benefit Now through April ‘06 January Missouri requires voting Missouri River Otters 25 UHL All-Star Game Verify name & info in voter registration ledger the Special Olympics. WIL is November 26 Let’s Get It On Boxing machines to print a paper trail of Receive the new optical scan ballot handling all tickets and 22 Billikens Season Opener February these votes and also store them on event promotions. Listen to December 1 INXS in concert a memory card. The paper record Proceed to voting booth 16 WIL 92 FM’s JingleFest the station for details. 26 Extreme International Ice Racing is used to verify results and is Mark ballot selections with marker January April FIGURE SKATING 8-11 U.S. Figure Skating Championships available for possible recounts. 27-30 64th Annual Moolah Shrine Circus St. Charles County is upgrading Proceed to optical scan reader to verify & The Family Arena will also host a The new equipment is funded, record your vote 20-21 World’s Toughest Rodeo all voting equipment to comply portion of the 2006 State Farm U.S. with the Help America Vote Act. in part, by a federal grant. The

6 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 3 Executive Message Emergencies... Each year, tornadoes, industrial failure or deliberate crimi- floods and severe storms bring Guest Commentary on Eminent Domain nal acts,” said Zerr, director of St. various levels of damage to Charles County’s Emergency areas of our state. Fortunately, One of the most critical issues facing the future of our county, our region and our state is Management Division. St. Charles County has not yet the subject of eminent domain abuse. Excerpts of an article by Senator Chuck Gross are LEPC members include highly- experienced the level of reprinted here because it speaks so well to the issue. — Joe Ortwerth, County Executive trained first-responders and experts in destruction that renders an various collateral fields who have the entire community helpless as If you thought your mortgage development guidelines. In other demnation experience to help this county brace seen in the South following banker was the only one with a vested words, it is now up to the Missouri authority to for catastrophe. The committee Hurricane Katrina. interest in your home or business and legislature to restrict the power of emi- private entities for private uses, not works to define a strategy in advance Although the LEPC and that as long as you paid the mortgage nent domain in our state to only those public ones. They also complained of to help smooth recovery efforts. emergency response agencies on time you wouldn’t be forced out, instances of true public need. A gov- having limited resources and thus Such functional planning is neces- are in a constant state of plan- think again. Unless your property is ernment’s condemnation of private being outmatched in their battles sary because no one can foresee the ning and preparedness, the producing the highest amount of tax property that is clearly for the benefit against the resources of a city intent The aftermath of a tornado left many multitude of dangers that occur in the upheaval of a major emergency can revenue possible for your local gov- of private enterprise is a gross abuse on condemnation and private develop- without shelter in April 2000. wake of disaster. However, emer- take a toll. The ability of a community. It is suggested that you prepare an ernment, you could be a developer’s of government power and relegates ers whose costs were likely to be cov- gency service and response teams can ty to pull together and respond is best emergency supply kit to survive at proposal away from cardboard boxes average citizens to the status of pawns. ered by tax giveaways. assume certain needs—the interrup- measured by the amount of advance least the first 72 hours following a dis- and packing tape. The highest court One compelling witness shared her tion of communications, utility serv- preparation. aster in case assistance is delayed. in our nation has put your property up family’s own story of working hard ices and transportation routes—and Prepare Yourself (See Ready in 3 information on page for grabs. and sacrificing to have a nice home in devise plans to address these The sheer number of risks and the 1.) A tremendous blow to property which to raise their family. Their resources that are critical to expedit- failure of vital systems resulting from Contact the Division of Emergency rights and to freedom itself was dealt entire lives were to be uprooted and ing response to known needs such as a catastrophe may hinder local agency Management at 636-949-3023 to by the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision everything they had worked for over food, shelter and medical attention. abilities to respond immediately to cit- schedule an emergency preparedness last month in Kelo vs. City of New the years taken in exchange for a izen needs. For this reason, individu- training program. London. The court ruled that individ- price approved by a court. All als should make their own family’s ual property rights are inferior to the because a private company envisioned emergency preparedness a top priori- rights of private eco- an opportunity for profit. “I’m not nomic developers who afraid of terrorists these days,” she LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE have acquired govern- said. “I’m afraid of developers and The St. Charles County LEPC represents the entire community. Its members ment approval. my own city’s mayor and aldermen.” work to provide comprehensive plans for response to disasters. Members include: Should a private The attraction of In its work, the House committee developer see an higher tax revenue reviewed a five-year study of emi- could overshadow Law Enforcement Fire & Rescue Services Hazardous Material Responders opportunity to profit your property rights nent-domain policies across the nation Public Works Utility Companies Emergency Medical Services from your property, he in the eminent that identified Missouri as having one Business & Industry Volunteer Organizations Community Health Services needs only a majority domain battle. of the worst records of abuse. The Citizens can learn skills to prepare Emergency Management Environmental Services Hospitals & Medical Facilities on the local governing study, by the Institute of Justice in for a variety of emergencies. Emergency Dispatch Centers body to agree in order to gain the In the fall of 2003, a Missouri Washington, D.C., found that local power to buy it from you. House interim committee on eminent governments in Missouri regularly Eminent Domain... The only saving grace of the domain held public hearings around condemned property for the benefit of nent-domain power and that state ing from pervasive poverty, decay and the power of government over every Supreme Court’s decision appears to the state, one of them in St. Charles private parties, that private redevelop- courts did not exercise prudent judg- distress. Rather than rewarding one individual. Your rights to liberty and be the ability of states to protect them- County. Property owners were angry ment corporations were given emi- ment in questions of public use. business at the expense of other busi- to enjoy the fruits of your labor have selves by enacting tougher economic with local governments for giving con- See Eminent Domain, page 7 To reset the historical and rightful nesses or the rights of private citizens, been vastly diminished. balance of power between govern- Missouri’s economic development pro- St. Charles County Government is ment and citizens in Missouri, we grams should focus on freeing busi- — Chuck Gross is a publication of St. Charles County Government should start by better defining what a ness from unnecessary burdens. Missouri committed to providing exceptional Address comments to: legitimate “public use” must be Those who think the Kelo decision Senator FOCUS Newsletter public service to its citizens through Governmental Communications Department before private property may be taken. isn’t relevant to them would do well to 23rd District 201 North Second Street, Suite 227 consider the much greater impact this principles of character, St. Charles, MO 63301 We also must strictly define “blight” 636-949-1890 Fax 636-949-1895 —frequently used as a justification decision portends for every American. www.saintcharlescounty.org professionalism and conscience. [email protected] for the use of eminent domain—to The court did not just put citizens’ pri- describe only those areas truly suffer- vate property in jeopardy, it expanded

2 St. Charles County Government 100 North Third Street St. Charles, MO 63301 (636) 949-7500 www.saintcharlescounty.org St. Charles County Government 7