News

Winter brings cold weather, snow, and sometimes ice to the region, but the colder season also brings birds of all shapes and sizes - including Eagles to local state parks for human viewing. In a recent news release, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) announced the 28 annual Eagle Days at Smithville Lake will take place Jan.

Each new year brings new legislation, and as 2023 draws to a close, Missouri has raised the minimum wage to $12.30 per hour for private employers. Up 30 cents from 2023, the Department of Labor explained that the wage rate for private and non-exempt businesses is now based on the increase or decrease of the cost of living per the Consumer Price Index.

After the holiday, Christmas trees can provide a hiding place, shade, and resting areas for local wildlife and fish. In a recent press release by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), those who utilize live trees for the holidays are encouraged to give back to the environment and recycle their trees.

A recent initiative came to pass in Excelsior Springs as a portion of U.S. 69 Highway was renamed in honor of Vic Bonuchi for his career accomplishments coaching high school baseball, football and wrestling, as well as his contributions to the athletes and people in the community he affected.

The new year brings challenges and opportunities for change, and Senior Life Solutions Program Director Ethan Kent described practical tips that people can use in the new year to create healthy habits.

Part 1 of 2 • Jan. 6 Amnesty Month is offered through the Excelsior Springs Municipal Division during the entire month of Jan.

Tim Broughton, a former Lewis Middle School student and sales manager with Fordyce Concrete, a CRH company, has witnessed the rebuilding process of the new school facility from the inside out. Broughton, now residing in Lawson, grew up in Excelsior Springs long before the revitalization efforts took place downtown.

Clay County is continuing their comprehensive planning process and is seeking additional participation in the county’s virtual open house and annual survey. According to a recent press release, the goal of the planning process is to provide county residents and the community with a future vision and plan that will be used as a guideline for the decision-making and development process.

The Excelsior Springs Planning and Zoning Commission met recently to discuss regulations to be placed on those seeking to operate short-term rentals. The commision also finalized an agreement to amend Chapter 400.230 pertaining to special use permits.

After being nominated by other community members for their outdoor holiday décor, James and Brenda Bailey won the monthly curb appeal award for December. Presented by neighborhood specialist Laura Mize on behalf of Thrive Excelsior’s Housing Task Force, the award recognized the Baileys for their hard work and dedication to their home.