👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter:

• 🚒 Monarch Fire District Tax Hike

• 🗳️ Absentee Voting Begins

• 🍰 Cheesecake Factory Closing

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

THE DIGEST

🚒 Monarch Fire District Seeks Tax Hike

The Monarch Fire Protection District is turning to voters for help. On August 6, residents will decide on a $.19 per $100 assessed valuation property tax increase. If passed, the hike would generate $5.8 million annually, allowing the district to hire 21 additional employees, purchase two ambulances, and upgrade to safer, PFAS-free gear for its 125 on-duty personnel.

🗳️ Absentee Voting Begins for August Primary

Gearing up for the August 6th Primary Election, St. Louis County voters can now request absentee ballots. With candidates vying for various offices and two constitutional amendments on the ballot, residents have until July 24th to apply for absentee voting. In-person absentee voting is available at the Board of Elections office, with additional satellite sites opening on July 23rd. Learn more here.

🍯 Hungry Bear Cub's Ongoing West County Tour

West St. Louis County has been experiencing a surge in bear cub sightings, with the Missouri Department of Conservation receiving a flood of reports detailing the young bear's ongoing adventures. These occurrences are typical during late spring and early summer when mother bears encourage their two-year-old cubs to venture out independently, leading to an increase in bear encounters.

🏆 Rockwood Comms Team Wins Big with NSPRA

Rockwood's communications team has struck gold! The National School Public Relations Association (NSPRA) has honored the district with a Golden Achievement Award for its exceptional Proposition 3 Communications Campaign. Rockwood stood out as one of only five Missouri school districts to receive this prestigious award, showcasing its dedication to keeping the community informed and engaged.

BUSINESS

🍰 Chesterfield Cheesecake Factory Says Goodbye

In a bittersweet turn of events, The Cheesecake Factory at the Chesterfield Mall will bid farewell on August 18, leaving 101 employees searching for new opportunities. The closure is part of a larger plan by The Staenberg Group to transform the mall site into a sprawling $2 billion mixed-use development, set to commence construction in 2025.

🌡️ Ameren Donates 800 ACs to Beat the Heat

In a heartwarming gesture, Ameren Missouri has donated 800 energy-efficient air conditioners to Cool Down St. Louis. This donation, marking the 19th year of Ameren's participation in the "Save our Seniors" Cooling Summer Project, aims to provide much-needed relief to vulnerable residents as temperatures soar. The air conditioners will be distributed to those in need, ensuring a safer and more comfortable summer for many.

♻️ ReStore: Where Sustainability Meets Savings

Calling all DIY enthusiasts and budget-conscious renovators! STL Magazine has shed light on a hidden gem: Habitat for Humanity ReStore. With a location conveniently situated in Des Peres, ReStore boasts an ever-changing inventory of deeply discounted home improvement products and building materials. By shopping or donating to ReStore, you'll not only save money but also contribute to a worthy cause.

CITY HIGHLIGHTS

Chesterfield

🎥 Dive Into Movie Magic at Chesterfield Pool

Get ready for a splashing good time at the Chesterfield Family Aquatic Center's Dive in Movie event this Friday at 7:30pm! In partnership with Monarch Fire Protection District, the center will screen "Super Mario Bros" poolside. Enjoy $2 off admission, which includes a complimentary snow cone. Season passes are not valid for this special event. Learn more here.

🏓 Serve Up Fun in Pickleball League

Pickle your Saturdays with excitement as Chesterfield's Pickleball League returns for Session 3! From July 20 to August 24, players of all ages and abilities can rally at the Chesterfield Valley Athletic Complex. Led by Callahan Pickleball Academy, this six-week league runs from 8:30-10am each Saturday. Registration is now available for this 3rd session here.

Des Peres

🌊 Making Waves: Cardboard Catamaran Cup Returns

Mark your calendars for The Lodge's Cardboard Catamaran Cup on July 21 from 6-7:30pm. Participants aged 7 and older will craft their boats (max width: 3 feet) using only cardboard and duct tape then race in the outdoor pool's lazy river. Register / learn more here.

Ellisville

🎉 Ellisville Honors Two 100-Year-Old Heroes

Two Ellisville residents, Gertrude "Trudy" Hartis and James "Jimmy" Guarino, were honored by the city for their 100th birthdays on June 25 and June 23, respectively. Mayor Mike Roemerman officially proclaimed their birthdays as special days in Ellisville, recognizing their long lives and contributions to the community.

Eureka

🏢 Out With the Old, In With the New in Eureka

Eureka's skyline is changing as construction on the new $11.5 million government center kicks off. The Michael A. Wiegand Justice Center, named after the city's police chief, will house the police department, municipal court, and city offices. With the old City Hall demolished, Integrate Construction Partners is hard at work to complete the project by year's end.

Manchester

🌺 Aloha! Manchester Aquatic Center Luau

Get ready to make a splash at Manchester's Luau at the Pool! This fun-filled event promises a sizzling summer experience for the whole family, complete with exciting games and activities. Pool pass holders will enjoy free entry, while others can join the festivities at the regular 5 pm pool rates.

🚧 Manchester Tackles Potholes with Public Help

Manchester residents can contribute to smoother streets by reporting potholes to the Public Works Department. Simply contact City Hall at 636-227-1385, ext. 104, and provide the location details. The city reports it is committed to promptly addressing these road hazards, ensuring a more comfortable driving experience for all.

Wildwood

🪖 Wildwood Salutes Hometown Heroes

Wildwood is showing its gratitude to the brave individuals who have served our country with its Hometown Heroes Banner program. Residents can now dedicate banners to honor veterans and active-duty service members, which are prominently displayed along Old Manchester Road and in Town Center. This initiative is a beautiful way for the community to express its appreciation for the sacrifices made by our military personnel. Learn more about the program here.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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📆 This Week

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Further Out

THANKS!

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