Lawrence County, Missouri, News

NEWS ARCHIVE

County Clerk extends hours to accommodate early voters

(updated Oct. 28, 2024) Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has extended her office hours this voting season to accommodate those who wish to vote early. Her office on the main floor of the Historic Courthouse in Mt. Vernon is now open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Nov. 1. It will be open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m Saturday, Nov. 2. Hours Monday, Nov. 4, will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

On Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5, polls across the county will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Sample ballots, fair ballot language provided by the Missouri Secretary of State, polling locations and other information can be found under “Elections” at www.lawrencecountymo.gov. Email inquiries may be sent to voterregistration@lawrencecountymo.gov or lawrence@sos.mo.gov, or call 417-466-2638.

OACAC requests input on needs for grant application

(Sept. 10, 2024) OACAC is asking Barry/Lawrence County residents to complete a two-question survey on prioritizing needs to assist in its application for an EPA grant for the community - https://forms.gle/AsdozN4fbdmBPntKA.

Official election results announced in Lawrence County

(Aug. 9, 2024) Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has released official results of the Aug. 6, 2024, primary election in Lawrence County.

County to hire full-time facilities maintenance technician

(July 9, 2024) Lawrence County Commission is seeking a full-time facilities maintenance technician for county facilities in Mt. Vernon, Missouri.

Job Overview: We are seeking a skilled Facility Maintenance worker to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing the maintenance and repair of various facilities and equipment.

Duties:

- Perform routine maintenance for all facilities

- Establish routine & preventative maintenance plans where needed for all facilities.

- Troubleshoot electrical and mechanical issues.

- Perform general maintenance, ground maintenance.

- Monitor computerized HVAC and other maintenance systems.

- Perform a variety of building maintenance and repair tasks, including but not limited to changing light bulbs, painting, doing basic carpentry, minor electrical repair, minor roofing repairs, and installing and repairing plumbing fixtures

- Coordinate with contractors for major repairs per County policies.

- Perform other task and duties as assigned

- Establish and maintain an effective working relationship with other staff and the public.

- Walks, standing and lifting to 50 lbs.

- Must pass Security Background Check

Skills:

- Proficient in facilities maintenance practices
- Knowledge of electrical systems and mechanical components
- Ability to troubleshoot and repair mechanical issues

- Friendly demeanor, service-oriented attitude, and engaging communication skills.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $18.00 - $22.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Life insurance
Paid time off
Retirement plan
Vision insurance

Experience level:

2 years

Schedule:

8 hour shift
Day shift
Monday to Friday
Weekends as needed

Send resume to triebe@lawrencecountymo.gov or deliver resume in person to the Lawrence County Clerk’s Office in the Historic Courthouse. Or see listing on Indeed.

Fair ballot language, constitutional amendment text offered

(July 1, 2024) Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has published the text of the constitutional amendments on the August primary ballot, along with fair ballot language versions, on this web site. The election will be Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024.

Voter registration must be completed before July 10. Absentee voting is June 25 to Aug. 5. No excuse absentee voting is July 23 to Aug. 5. The county clerk's office will hold special Saturday hours Aug. 3 from 8 to noon for absentee and no excuse early voting. More information is available on the elections page and by calling the county clerk's office at 417-466-2638.

Circuit clerk seeks applicants for principal court clerk

(July 17, 2024) Job Announcement: Vacancy for a Principal Court Clerk position

Job Title: Principal Court Clerk – Supervisor for the Criminal Division

Job Description: Basic Function and Responsibility

The Principal Court Clerk position is advanced work using an electronic filing system in a court within the Missouri State Court System. Work Involves responsibility for court case processing which may require the application of independent judgement and the application of statutes, policies and regulations, with minimal supervision. Work requires frequent interaction with the public providing exceptional customer service. Work may also involve financial record keeping within an automated case management system, providing direct support for a circuit judge or associate circuit judge providing a full range of responsibilities within the division’s jurisdiction.

We are looking for a master multi-tasker with excellent communication skills, candidates should be able to perform a variety of legal and confidential duties, must have obtained the equivalent combination of a High Diploma or GED and two years of clerical experience is preferred pertaining to processing of criminal cases. An associate’s degree in a related field such as criminal law preferred or at least 60 semester hours from an institution of higher learning and three years of administrative experience and supervisory capacity.

How to Apply: Go On-Line https://mocareers.mo.gov/hiretrue/mo/osca/index.html

Apply through the MO Careers State Portal

Submit Resume: Email the Circuit Clerk at pamela.fobair@courts.mo.gov

Full-Time Position: 40 Hours a week

State Employee: Starting Pay: $17.71 hourly rate, with health insurance and benefits, dental and vision plans available, paid holidays and accrued sick and annual leave

Application Deadline: Open -Until position is filled

Contact Person: Pamela Fobair Email - pamela.fobair@courts.mo.gov

Public test of election tabulating equipment set July 24

(July 3, 2024) The public is invited to view a public test of the election tabulating equipment that will be used in the August primary election in Lawrence County. County Clerk Tammy Riebe will hold the public test at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 24, in the second floor elections office in the Historic Courthouse in Mt. Vernon. For more information, call 417-466-2638.

Ribbon cutting, tours July 18 for Law Enforcement Center

(July 1, 2024) The public was able to view the interior of the new Law Enforcement Center before inmates are moved in following a ribbon-cutting Thursday, July 18, 2024.

While the building was deemed "substantially complete" as of June 28, the county is still awaiting some equipment, furnishings and other final work, along with training on the new systems, before operations can move there.

The $23 million facility at 1525 Missouri Drive will house the sheriff's office and jail. It brings sheriff’s office operations together under one roof and replaces the current 52-bed jail built in 1984 with a modern, more efficient 120-bed detention center. It is designed to allow two future 96-bed expansions. Voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax to finance the construction. Elevatus Architecture designed the facility; and Nabholz Construction is construction manager at risk.

Part-time position available in county collector's office

(June 24, 2024) Lawrence County Collector Kelli McVey is seeking part-time seasonal help for his office in the Historic Courthouse. Applicants must be bondable. Apply in person at the collector's office. A resume is recommended. UPDATE: POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED.

Law Enforcement Center nears completion

(June 20, 2024) Construction of the Lawrence County Law Enforcement is expected to be "substantially complete" June 28, according to a June 20 construction meeting. Some final finishing work will continue after that date. The facility will house the sheriff's office and a 120-bed jail. Move-in date has not been announced.

The $23 million facility will bring sheriff’s office operations together under one roof and replace the current 1984 jail with a modern, more efficient 120-bed detention center. It is designed to allow two future 96-bed expansions. Voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax last year to finance the construction. Elevatus Architecture designed the facility; and Nabholz Construction is construction manager at risk.

Elevator refurbishing completed at Historic Courthouse

(May 10, 2024) The elevator at the Historic Courthouse was put back into operation May 9 after being out of service for nearly four weeks. The equipment has been completely refurbished.

Elevator at Historic Courthouse being refurbished

The elevator at the Historic Courthouse will be out of service approximately three weeks starting around April 15, 2024. The equipment is being completely refurbished. Phone numbers of each of the upper floor offices will be posted at the handicapped entry (north side) so visitors can call and arrange whatever services are needed. Those unable to call can go to the assessor's office on the ground level and ask them to call.

Offices of the county clerk, collector, recorder of deeds, county commission and treasurer are one floor up. The Mt. Vernon License Office and Fred G. Mieswinkel Research Room are two floors up. Phone numbers for all the offices are listed on this web site. The collector and recorder both have some online services available.

Construction projects progress

(May 10, 2024) Construction is progressing on the two new county facilities on Missouri Drive in Mt. Vernon. The Law Enforcement Center, which will house the sheriff's office and a 120-bed jail, is expected to be "substantially complete" June 28. Move-in date has not been announced. Steel framing is up for the new Lawrence County Health Department. Construction on that project is expected to be complete before the end of the year.

Riebe announces official election results for county

Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has released official results of the April 2, 2024, election in Lawrence County, Missouri, including results of write-ins. Just over 10 percent of the county's registered voters cast ballots in the election.

Construction under way on Law Enforcement Center

Brief groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Lawrence County Law Enforcement Center were held Thursday, Feb. 9, 2023, at the building site at 1525 Missouri Drive, Mt. Vernon.

The $22 million facility will bring sheriff’s office operations together under one roof and replace the current 1984 jail with a modern, more efficient 120-bed detention center. It is designed to allow two future 96-bed expansions. Voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax last year to finance the construction. Elevatus Architecture designed the facility; and Nabholz Construction is construction manager at risk.

Groundbreaking held for new health department

Lawrence County broke ground Thursday, Nov. 2, on a $5.3 million health department building on Missouri Drive. The ceremony was held at the building site at 1549 Missouri Drive, Mt. Vernon. The new health department is made possible by Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds received by Lawrence County.

(Scenes and details from the Nov. 2 groundbreaking.)

Expansion of the health department has been a priority for County Commissioners Bob Senninger, David Botts and Tim Selvey since the pandemic hit in 2020 and they witnessed the effect the cramped conditions and limited facilities had on the overworked staff there.

“The pandemic identified our shortcomings in serving citizens of Lawrence County,” noted Selvey.

With the new facility, the county will be better prepared for future challenges. It also will be better positioned to provide services on a day-to-day basis.

“The new building will improve client comfort, privacy and accessibility, provide larger spaces for services and community education and ensure a safer and more efficient working environment for employees,” said Janella Spencer, health department administrator.

The construction cost includes the building, sitework and a 40x60 outbuilding that the county will share with emergency management. It will be located south of the new 911 center constructed by the Lawrence County Emergency Services Board, and the Law Enforcement Center currently under construction by the county. The county purchased the three-acre site from the City of Mt. Vernon for $1 in September 2021.

Esterly Schneider & Associates is the architect for the health department. Branco Enterprises is construction manager at risk.

The health department has occupied a 6,000-square-foot converted grocery store at 105 W. North St. since 1995. It previously was housed in less than a thousand square feet in the courthouse basement. It is operated with county general revenue and grants.

New polling place for North Aurora Precinct voters

Polling place for voters in the North Aurora Precinct has been moved from Aurora Fire Station #2 to the main fire station at 106 S. Elliott St., announces Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe.

Election day is Tuesday, April 2. Polls will be open 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. that day.

Public test of voting equipment scheduled Friday, March 29

The Lawrence County Clerk will be testing the automatic tabulating equipment on Friday, March 29, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. All interested parties are invited to attend.

Saturday voting offered March 30 at county clerk's office

The Lawrence County Clerk ’s office will be open on Saturday March 30, 2024 from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. for absentee and no excuse early voting. Election Day is April 2, 2024

Applications accepted for position in circuit clerk's office

Applications will be accepted until Jan. 24 for a part-time court clerk position in the office of Lawrence County Circuit Clerk Pam Fobair. The position is 25 hours a week with starting pay of $16.89 per hour, health insurance and benefits.

Resumes can be emailed to pamela.fobair@courts.mo.gov. Or apply online at https://mocareers.mo.gov/hiretrue/mo/osca/index.html. Contact person is Pam Fobair, pamela.fobair@courts.mo.gov, 417-466-2471, ext. 112.

The Court Clerk position is advanced work using an electronic filing system. It involves court case processing which may require the application of independent judgment and the application of statutes, policies and regulations with minimal supervision. Work requires exceptional customer service skills. It may also involve financial record keeping within an automated case management system, providing direct support for a judge providing a full range of responsibilities within the division's jurisdiction.

Public hearing Jan. 18 on county's 2024 spending plan

A public hearing on the 2024 county budget will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, at the Historic Courthouse. County Clerk Tammy Riebe will present the proposed budget. The hearing will be held in the historic courtroom on the second floor.

Courthouse clockworks struck by lightning

(Fall 2023) It may not have been as dramatic as the lightning strike in the movie "Back to the Future," but lightning did damage the clocks at the Historic Courthouse in September.

Dennis Harter, who handles building and grounds at the 122-year-old building, said it will be January before all the parts arrive for repairs. The county essentially will be rebuilding the mechanics of the four-face clockworks. But afterward, Harter, said the bell that ties into them should ring again.

Bids for Health Dept. construction opened Oct. 5, 2023

Bids for construction of the new Lawrence County Health Department were opened Oct. 5, 2023. Estherly Schneider & Associates is the architect for the project. Branco Enterprises is contractor. The health department will be constructed at 1549 Missouri Drive, south of Interstate.

Annual tax sale scheduled Aug. 28, 2023

The office of the Lawrence County Collector will conduct the annual tax sale at 10 a.m. Aug. 28, 2023. To be qualified to bid, you must have paid all your own personal and real property taxes. The sale will be held in the second floor courtroom of the Historic Courthouse.

A free, updated property list is available in the Collector's Office in the courthouse. Detailed books are available for purchase in the Assessor's Office in the courthouse. The list is also available in the July 19 and 26 Lawrence County Record. For more about tax sale procedures, visit lawrencecountycollector.com.

County tax levy hearing Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023

The annual tax levy hearing for Lawrence County, Common I and II Road Districts, and Special Road & Bridge will be held at 9 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 17, 2023, in the County Commission Office of the Historic Courthouse.

Questions about your property tax assessment?

The Lawrence County Assessor has mailed out change of assessment notices and taxpayers may have questions concerning these changes in assessment figures.

Board of Equalization Procedures - If a taxpayer wants to challenge their change in assessed valuation, they should inquire about the issue before July 10, 2023. They may call the Assessor’s office to inquire about the change or they may call the County Clerk’s office to schedule an appointment to meet with the Board of Equalization (BOE).

When they call the Clerk’s office they will be asked if they have already talked to the Assessor’s office about the matter. They don’t have to but it may be possible to resolve the dispute before having to attend a meeting of the Board of Equalization (BOE). The Assessor’s Office phone number is 466-2831.

If a taxpayer wants to appear before the BOE, the Clerk’s office will mail the taxpayer an Appeal Form. The taxpayer must fill out the form and return it to the County Clerk’s Office on or before July 10, 2023 so that an appointment can be scheduled for them with the Board of Equalization. (RSMo 137.275)

The BOE will meet, according to Statute, on the third Monday in July, July 17th, 2023. (RSMo 138.010)

MISCELLANOUS INFORMATON

The Board consists of the three County Commissioners, the Surveyor and two appointed citizens. The County Assessor is a non voting member of the Board. The County Clerk will be present to act as Secretary to the Board.

When the taxpayer meets with the Board of Equalization, they must provide proof that the value assigned to their property is incorrect. To support their claim they may provide sales contracts, appraisals, income & expense information, documented sales of similar properties in their neighborhood, pictures, blueprints or evidence of significant property data errors regarding their property.

Once a decision is made by the BOE, the taxpayer will be given written notice of the decision of the Board along with information concerning how to appeal the Board’s decision if they so desire.

Extension wants your help in determining broadband needs

(From University Extension, Columbia) – You can help guide broadband development efforts in your community by completing a short, anonymous online survey for the Missouri Office of Broadband Development. The survey, conducted by University of Missouri Extension, is at http://muext.us/MissouriInternetSurvey).

“As we continue making historic investments in Missouri’s broadband infrastructure, we encourage public feedback to inform our efforts,” said B.J. Tanksley, director of the Office of Broadband Development. “Hearing from citizens in urban and rural areas is an incredibly valuable part of understanding our state’s needs.”

As of April 5, the survey has received more than 4,400 responses since it launched in March, says Alan Spell, MU assistant extension professor of community and regional economics. Researchers are seeking more responses from minority and limited-English-proficiency households and mailing information postcards to randomly selected residents. The survey is available in both English and Spanish.

Research by MU Extension indicates that even small increases in broadband access can lead to substantial gains in job growth, household income and GDP over time, Spell says. But realizing those benefits requires not just the physical availability of high-speed internet connections but also the adoption and use of those connections for applications like telemedicine and expanded opportunities related to education, employment and business, he says.

The survey asks households about existing internet use – devices, connections and applications – and barriers to use such as financial obstacles and training and assistance needs.

The survey takes about six minutes and is open to all Missourians age 18 and up. Responses will be accepted through mid-May 2023. Results will inform state and local efforts to expand availability and use of broadband internet access, Spell says.

Flyer with QR code (English)

https://extension.missouri.edu/media/wysiwyg/Extensiondata/Pro/ExCEED/Docs/MOInternetSurveySpanish_flyer.pdf
Flyer with QR code (Spanish)

Recreational marijuana use sales tax on April ballot

Lawrence County Commission is letting voters decide whether the county should collect a 3% sales tax on purchases of recreational marijuana within the county.

When voters approved Amendment 3 last November legalizing the sale of marijuana in Missouri, they also approved a provision within that Amendment allowing governing bodies to impose a sales tax on the retail sale of adult use marijuana. However, county governments must take the extra step of holding an election before collecting the tax.

The issue will be on the ballot April 4.

The sales tax would apply only to the retail sale of adult recreational use marijuana within Lawrence County.

Ballot language: “Shall Lawrence County, Missouri impose a countywide sales tax of three percent (3%) on all tangible personal property retail sales of adult use marijuana sold in Lawrence County, Missouri?”

2023 budget approved after public hearing Jan. 19

Lawrence County’s 2023 budget invests funds in projects that should benefit Lawrence countians for decades to come. The County Commission approved the budget following a public hearing Jan. 19.

County Clerk Tammy Riebe outlined some of the highlights of the spending plan:

Construction of the Law Enforcement Center financed by a dedicated sales tax approved by voters. It will combine law enforcement services under one roof and more than double the capacity of the existing jail, with a design that allows for future expansion. Formal groundbreaking ceremonies will be held Feb. 9.
The budget also provides for eight additional jailer positions.
Construction of a larger, more modern Lawrence County Health Center to replace the current overcrowded facility. It will be financed with Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. It is currently in the design phase.
Tuckpointing to preserve the stonework on the Historic Courthouse; and exterior cleaning and sealing of the Justice Center.
New election tabulating equipment to replace equipment that has been in use since 2012.
Increases in employee wages. While the eight jail positions are the only new positions added in the 2023 budget, in 2022 the county added four full-time positions: one in the public administrator’s office; one in the collector’s office; and two bailiff positions in the sheriff’s office.
As part of its patrol car rotation, the county replaced four in the 2022 budget and will replace two in 2023.

Riebe noted the county is continuing its approach of budgeting conservatively while focusing on spending that provides long-term benefits.

The budget can be viewed online or in the office of the Lawrence County Clerk.

Lawrence County official election results

Nearly 49% of registered voters in Lawrence County cast ballots in the November 2022 general election. County Clerk Tammy Riebe has released official election results: SUMMARY DETAIL

Teresa Pace appointed public administrator

Lawrence County Commission appointed Teresa Pace public administrator following the resignation of Janice Martin. Pace, who had been serving as deputy public administrator, will serve the remainder of Martin's term.

Governor appoints Denise Massie recorder of deeds

Missouri Governor Mike Parson has appointed Denise Massie as recorder of deeds in Lawrence County. She succeeds longtime Recorder Pam Robertson, who resigned effective Aug. 31.

Massie won the Republican nomination for the seat in August. She is unopposed in the November election.

Robertson had been called out of retirement to help after the unexpected passing of her successor, Gary Emerson, in November 2020. Since then, she achieved two major goals she and Emerson had worked toward: digitizing land records back to the county's founding and moving the office over to a new software system.

Official election results released

Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has released official results of the Aug. 2, 2022, Primary Election in Lawrence County. Nearly 30% of the 25,085 registered voters cast ballots. Summary Precinct Breakdown

Businesses begin collecting 3/8-cent sales tax April 1, 2022

A 3/8-cent sales tax to fund a new jail and sheriff's office in Lawrence County took effect April 1, 2022. The new rate information is available from the Missouri Department of Revenue online. The form is under the heading "April 2022 Sales and Use Tax Rate Changes."

Starting in April 2022, the county and state combined rate will be 6.725. The rate for that portion of Lawrence County in the Barry-Lawrence Ambulance District will be 7.225%. Cities in the county with their own sales taxes will see their total rates increase by 3/8 of 1%. The City of Mt. Vernon approved a half-cent sales tax Nov. 2, so its rate will also go up that amount.

Oct. 12 is last day to register to vote in Nov. election

Absentee ballots for the November General Election began September 27, 2022. In person absentee voting is available in the County Clerk’s office during normal business hours.

The last day to register to vote for the November 8, 2022 Election is October 12, 2022.

Links: Absentee ballot request Sample ballot Fair ballot language

Missouri law requires that requests for absentee ballots must be received by 5:00 p.m. on the Second Wednesday prior to Election Day (October 26th) if the ballot is to be mailed. You must furnish your name, physical address, date of birth, last four digits of your Social Security Number, reason for voting absentee and your signature. Request forms are located on the lawrencecountymo.org website.

Requests for applications by guardians or relatives within the second degree by consanguinity or affinity must be made in person at the County Clerk’s office.

The Courthouse office of the County Clerk will be open for absentee voting

from 8am to noon on Saturday, November 5th.

The deadline for absentee voting in person in the office of the Election Authority is 5:00 p.m. on the day before the election (November 7th).

NO EXCUSE EARLY VOTING begins October 25, 2022 in the County Clerk’s office during normal business hours.

Bid notice for Law Enforcement Center construction

Lawrence County is seeking bids for the new Law Enforcement Center project. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 1, 2022, in the Historic Courthouse (second floor courtroom), 1 Courthouse Square, Mt. Vernon, Mo. Public bid opening will be at 2 p.m. June 21. Nabholz Construction Corp. will be accepting sealed bids for concrete, masonry, steel, carpentry, waterproofing, doors, glass, drywall, flooring, painting, specialties, detention equipment, food service equipment, laundry equipment, pre-engineered metal buildings, fire suppression, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, low voltage cabling, access controls, fire alarm, earthwork, asphalt paving, fencing, landscaping and utilities. Bid responses and inquiries should be sent to Nabholz Construction, Jarrett Sims, jarrett.sims@nabholz.com. (Advertisement for bids with links)

Public testing of vote tabulating equipment set April 1

(Lawrence County Clerk, March 22, 2022) The Lawrence County Clerk will be testing the automatic tabulating equipment on Friday, April 1, 2022 at 1:00 p.m. at the Historic Courthouse. All interested parties are invited to attend.

The Lawrence County Clerk ’s office will be open on Saturday April 2, 2022 from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. for absentee voting.

Election Day is April 5, 2022

Absentee voting under way for April 5 election

Beginning Feb. 25, absentee ballots may be cast in the April 5, 2022, general municipal election in Lawrence County.

Voters must have registered before March 9 to be eligible to vote in that election. For election info, click here. You may also contact the county clerk's office at 417-466-2638 for more details.

State procedural audit results released Dec. 9, 2021

Missouri State Auditor Nicole Galloway has released results of the routine procedural audit of Lawrence County Dec. 9, 2021, giving the county a “fair” rating. Her Citizen Summary and the complete audit with responses can be found here. (Audit #2021-120)

Lawrence County’s finances and operations are reviewed regularly through routine financial audits and state procedural audits. With the increase in federal funds that pass through the county for grants and Coronavirus relief, it now also has a more extensive Single Audit. Field work on that audit is nearing completion.

County's 3/8-cent likely to begin April 1, 2022

Lawrence County will be working with the Missouri Department of Revenue to set up the 3/8-cent sales tax that unofficial election results indicate passed in the Nov. 2 election. Based on preliminary information, the county expects collection of the 3/8-cent to begin April 1, 2022.

The current sales tax rate for Lawrence County is 6.35%, which includes the state's 4.225% portion. Starting in April 2022, that rate would increase by 3/8 of 1%, making it 6.725. That portion of Lawrence County in the Barry-Lawrence Ambulance District would go from 6.85 to 7.225%. Those cities in the county with their own sales taxes would see their total rate increase by 3/8 of 1%. The City of Mt. Vernon approved a half-cent sales tax Nov. 2, so its rate would also go up that amount.

A complete list of current sales tax rates in Missouri can be found at the Dept. of Revenue web site.

Reporting changes as pandemic shifts to endemic phase

(Lawrence County Health Dept.) On March 30th, Governor Mike Parson announced an end to the COVID-19 crisis in Missouri and stated the state will be shift to an endemic phase of the pandemic as of Friday, April 1, 2022.

The Department of Health and Senior Services also changed their dashboard to now provide weekly updates that will include 7-day case rate data, activity by region and county, statewide data on COVID-19 hospitalizations, and circulating virus variants.

Because of this change our own county dashboard was also affected. We will no longer have access to use certain data we had previously relied on to support our dashboard. From now on, we plan to share information on local case counts IF we see there is a concerning shift. In the meantime, you can access the state's dashboard below.

health.mo.gov.

Commission approves 2022 spending plan;

all officeholders finish 2021 within their budgets

Lawrence County’s general operating fund should end the year in the black with the budget proposal presented to the public Jan. 12. It expects to take in $4.79 million while spending $4.73 million.

The county is entering 2022 in good fiscal shape, said Presiding Commissioner Bob Senninger; but it will continue to spend conservatively.

Two other funds the county uses to operate – the Judicial Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund – are both expected to outspend revenues in 2022 but have reserve funds to allow it. The Judicial Fund operates the Justice Center and pays bailiff and maintenance costs. The Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund supports the sheriff’s office and jail.

In the 2022 budget, the county proposes to:

Focus new spending on capital projects;
Bring employee pay levels up to the point where the county can comply with upcoming minimum wage increases and remain competitive; and
Continue with only modest increases in spending for overall county services.

Every officeholder finished 2021 within budget.

Among highlights of the 2022 budget:

In addition to increases in the salary schedule, the county commission opted to absorb a substantial increase in health insurance costs rather than pass the increase on to employees.
The only positions added were in the public safety sector. A position was added in the Judicial Fund and a second one added in the Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund. These were needed for bailiff and prisoner transport duties.
Sales tax – the biggest source of revenue for county operations – has been up both years of the pandemic, thanks in part to an influx of stimulus money. For 2022, the budget calls for a conservative $1.67 million in revenue on a half-cent sales tax.
Together, the county’s three main operational funds – General Revenue, Judicial Fund and Law Enforcement Sales Tax Fund – represent $8.5 million in potential spending in 2022. That includes $1.668 million for general county operations (commission, clerk, elections, building and grounds, employee benefits, treasurer, collector, circuit clerk, recorder, court administration/electronic monitoring and public administrator); $4.746 million for public safety (sheriff, jail, justice center, prosecutor, juvenile office and coroner); $863,048 for health department; and $680,507 for other county costs (child support enforcement unit, surveyor, emergency management, insurance/bonds, publications, University Extension and dues). Also included are transfers of $400,000 to other funds (capital projects and equipment replacement) and $150,000 for the emergency fund.

Questions about the budget can be directed to County Clerk Tammy Riebe, 417-466-2638.

Didn't make the tax deadline? Here's how you can pay

Lawrence County real and personal property taxes were due by Dec. 31. But if you missed that deadline, you can still pay in person, by phone or online

You may check how much you owe and pay online at www.lawrencecountycollector.com. You also have the option of paying by phone (1-800-652-0405). Follow the prompts. There are extra charges for credit card payments.

Failure to receive a tax statement does not exempt you from paying taxes by the Dec. 31 deadline. You can see how much you owe at www.lawrencecountycollector.com.

Both issues pass in Nov. 2, 2021, general election official results

Lawrence County voters approved a 3/8-cent sales tax to fund a new jail/sheriff's office by a vote of 1,312-1,277. Voters in the Mt. Vernon city limits approved a 1/2-cent sales tax for parks by a vote of 340-180. Official election results will be released Friday, Nov. 5.

Public invited to town hall Oct. 28 on building proposal

(Lawrence County Commission, Oct. 21, 2021) The public is invited to a town hall meeting on the Nov. 2 ballot issue for a new Lawrence County Sheriff's Office & Detention Center. It will be held 7-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 28, in the second floor courtroom of the Historic Courthouse. For more about the building project, click here. For election details, click here.

County asking 3/8-cent for new jail, law enforcement facility

(Lawrence County Commission, Sept.. 14, 2021) Lawrence County voters will be asked Nov. 2 to approve a 3/8-cent sales tax to build a larger, more secure jail and sheriff’s office. After the construction is paid off, 1/8 cent of the tax would be retired. The rest would be retained for maintenance and operation of the facility and other public safety related costs. The measure requires a simple majority to pass.

The action has been years in the making, and the county has been saving toward the construction cost. However, it received a huge boost recently when the City of Mt. Vernon agreed to provide an 8.52-acre lot south of Interstate 44 for a token $1. The caveat: The county must show progress toward the construction within three years and break ground within five or the property goes back to the city.

By acting now, the county also hopes some federal funds might help with the cost. It hopes to use a portion of federal American Recovery Act funds for the air filtration system and other qualifying construction costs.

The county commission has contracted with a seasoned jail architectural firm, Elevatus Architects, to develop plans for a safer, more secure facility designed for efficiency of operation and the ability to expand in the future. Law enforcement offices that are now spread among three buildings would be combined under one roof.

The facility would be constructed within a new development area south of I-44 to be known as Mt. Vernon Commercial Park South. Initial access would be from a road to be known as Missouri Drive off the south outer road.

Damage in flood? Please let emergency management know

(Lawrence County Emergency Management, May 20, 2021) If you had any damage relate to this week's flood, send an email to lawemd@hotmail.com. Please include:

Full name
Address
Brief description of damage
Estimated cost of repair/replacement

Emergency management director Grant Selvey said as of right now, the flood doesn't qualify as a disaster but each report of damage gets us closer to that designation.

Public hearing on county tax rate set Aug. 19, 2021

The annual public hearing on the county property tax rate will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 19, in the Historic Courthouse. The proposed tax rate is lower than that set at least year's hearing - 0.1011 compared to 0.1216 - due to the sales tax rollback. Proposed levy for the Special Road & Bridge Fund is 0.0992 compared to 0.10 last year.

New emergency management director assumes duties

(Lawrence County Commission, March 1, 2021) Lawrence County’s new emergency management director is Grant Selvey of northeast Lawrence County. Commissioners hired him from a field of six candidates Feb. 25. He began duties March 1. His office is in the Historic Courthouse.

Previously the county contracted with the City of Monett for the service.

Commissioners expressed their appreciation to the City of Monett for its partnership over the past seven years, and particularly to Bonnie Witt-Schulte, who has served as emergency management director during that time.

The county began advertising the position after the City of Monett advised it did not want to continue the contract. “We believe this agreement has been a benefit to both parties; however, with the additional duties that have been assumed by the City’s Emergency Management Director relating to the provision of E911 and general dispatching services for all of Lawrence County, we don’t believe that we can continue to provide the service that is commensurate with your expectations,” said the letter from Monett Mayor Mike Brownsberger.

Prior to its contract with Monett, the county employed its own emergency management director to plan, direct and coordinate city and county emergency/disaster planning, mitigation, response, resilience and recovery activities, including grant submissions and compliance, and coordination with FEMA/SEMA.

Selvey retired from law enforcement after 10 years of service and has been self-employed the past 10 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and POST certification through the Springfield Law Enforcement Academy.

Governor appoints David Cole circuit judge

(Office of Governor Mike Parson, Jan. 29, 2021) Today, Governor Mike Parson appointed David Cole as Circuit Judge for the 39th Judicial Circuit. He will fill the Circuit Judge vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Jack A.L. Goodman to the Southern District Court of Appeals.

Mr. Cole, of Cassville, is currently a partner at Ellis, Cupps & Cole Law Firm. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Missouri Southern State University and a Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri – Columbia School of Law.

Governor appoints Mathew Kasper associate circuit judge

(Office of Governor Mike Parson, Jan. 29, 2021) Today, Governor Mike Parson appointed Matthew Kasper as Associate Circuit Judge for the 39th Judicial Circuit. He will fill the Associate Circuit Judge vacancy created by the retirement of the Honorable Robert George.

Mr. Kasper, of Mount Vernon, currently serves as the assistant prosecuting attorney for Lawrence County. He holds a bachelor's degree in history and political science from Arkansas Tech University and a master's degree in divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Mr. Kasper earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas School of Law.

Governor appoints Robertson as recorder of deeds

Governor Mike Parson has appointed Pam Robertson as Lawrence County recorder of deeds, filling a vacancy that occurred with the passing of Gary Emerson on Nov. 5, 2020.

Robertson retired from the position two years earlier; but she interrupted that retirement to help out in the office after Emerson became seriously ill from COVID-19. The county commission appointed her acting recorder of deeds after Emerson's passing.

Officeholders sworn in Dec. 31, 2020

On Dec. 31, 2020, Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe conducted swearing-in ceremonies for those county officials elected or re-elected in the Nov. 3 General Election. They included (pictured, from left) Assessor Doug Bowerman, Public Administrator Janice Martin, Sheriff Brad DeLay, Western Commissioner David Botts, Eastern Commissioner Tim Selvey, Coroner Scott Lakin and Surveyor Aaron Austin. They all were elected to four-year terms.

175th celebration to be rescheduled

Lawrence County's 175th celebration event will be rescheduled. It was originally set April 9.

Road, bridge sales tax up for retention in June 2 election

The longstanding road and bridge sales tax in Lawrence County will be up for renewal on the June 2, 2020, ballot. Voters first approved the sales tax in 1984, and have voted in favor of renewing it each of the five times it has come up for renewal. This time it will be presented without an expiration date. The sales tax supports the 15 road districts in the county.

County clerk outlines 2020 election information

Lawrence County Clerk Tammy Riebe has announced election information for 2020:

PRESIDENTIAL PREFERENCE PRIMARY - MARCH 10

GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION - April 7 (Rescheduled to June 2)

PRIMARY ELECTION - AUG. 4

PRESIDENTIAL GENERAL ELECTION - Nov. 3

Budget hearing Jan. 18

JAN. 2017 NEWS RELEASE FROM COUNTY CLERK GARY EMERSON

A public hearing will be held by the Lawrence County Commission on Wednesday, January 18, 2017, at 10 a.m. in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Mt. Vernon, Missouri, on the proposed 2017 Lawrence County budget.

All documents are available for inspection in the office of Gary Emerson, County Clerk and Budget Officer of Lawrence County.

Monitoring system should save money

JULY 2016 NEWS RELEASE FROM LAWRENCE COUNTY COMMISSION

Lawrence County commissioners signed an agreement Wednesday, July 27, 2016, that should help cut jail numbers and substantially reduce the cost of housing inmates in other counties.

The agreement with LBS Monitoring, a Lawrence County company, provides for 24-hours-a-day, 7-days-a-week electronic monitoring of inmates approved for the program through the court system.

The numbers are dramatic. Initially, the prosecutor’s office estimated the program could be used for 24 people who might otherwise sit in jail while awaiting a court date or serving a jail sentence for a minor offense. That would enable the county to bring home 18 inmates county taxpayers are currently paying to house in Vernon County because of overcrowding at the Lawrence County Jail. READ MORE >

Lawrence County launches central web site

JULY 2016 NEWS RELEASE

Lawrence County has a new central web site, lawrencecountymo.org.

Visitors will find information on elections, paying taxes, road districts and general county information, among other topics. READ MORE >

Better bridges in Lawrence County Released 5-26-16

UPDATE: Lawrence County Commission voted June 1, 2016, to accept the low bid of $619,750 from Hartman Construction for the next BRO bridge replacement project. Another contractor bid $809,358.

MAY 26, 2016 NEWS RELEASE

Lawrence County is making progress in its efforts to improve bridges across the county. The latest Missouri Department of Transportation inspection reveals that locally maintained bridges have improved “considerably” overall, according to Presiding Commissioner Sam Goodman.

Thirty-nine of the 126 bridges MoDOT inspected were placed on its deficiencies list, but none were rated lower than 4 on a scale of 1 to 10 (1 being the worst). Those bridges with worse deficiencies have all been rehabilitated or replaced over the years. (MoDOT only inspects bridges with openings of 20 feet or greater.)

Lawrence County, Missouri

Your County Government at Work

Teresa Pace appointed public administrator

Budget hearing Jan. 18

Monitoring system should save money

Lawrence County launches central web site

Better bridges in Lawrence County Released 5-26-16