👋 Good Morning, West County!

In today’s ⚡️West County Pulse newsletter:

🍎 Rockwood Pay Resolution
🏡 A Backyard Chickens Law
🏌️ A New PGA Store Coming to Manchester

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

General News

🍎 Rockwood Teacher Pay Dispute Heads to Resolution

Months of negotiations between Rockwood School District and teachers may be concluding. The tentative two-year agreement would increase teacher salaries by 10% total, with 5.25% in year one and 4.75% in year two. The Rockwood National Education Association will vote next week on the proposal, following weeks of teacher demonstrations about Rockwood's current ranking as 20th in county teacher pay.

🏡 State Law Limits HOA Chicken Bans

With egg prices expected to rise another 41% by 2025, many local residents are considering backyard chickens. A recent Missouri law now allows chicken ownership despite HOA rules, but only on lots over 2/10ths of an acre. However, local ordinances still take precedence, meaning many municipal bans remain in place.

🧊 Zoo's Polar Swap Brings Twin Cubs

Though outside my West County focus, this zoo news is interesting. The Saint Louis Zoo has exchanged 12-year-old polar bear Kali to Toledo for breeding purposes. In return, St. Louis received twin polar bears named Kallu and Kallik, meaning thunder and lightning. The teenage twins, weighing 600 and 750 pounds, will soon make their public debut after a brief quarantine period.

Business

🏌️ PGA Superstore Opening in Manchester

A major golf retailer is expanding to our area. PGA Tour Superstore will open its first Missouri location at Manchester Highlands Shopping Center this fall. The 35,000-square-foot store will include a putting green, practice bays, golf simulators, repair services, and professional lessons, alongside equipment for tennis and pickleball enthusiasts.

🛒 Schnucks Campaign Raises $112K

Schnucks' recent checkout February round-up campaign delivered meaningful support to area programs. The initiative raised $112,000 for the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis during its February 5-18 run.

🚒 Big Truck Day Coming to The Hub STL This Weekend

The Hub STL in the Chesterfield Valley is hosting Big Truck Day this Saturday, March 8th from 2-4pm. The event at The District parking lot will feature vehicles from Monarch Fire Department, Chesterfield Police, and St. Louis Children's Hospital. Local food vendors will be on site.

🏠 Win a Home, Grant a Child's Wish

Make-A-Wish has launched their 2025 Wish Home Raffle fundraiser. A $100 ticket purchase helps children with critical illnesses across three states while giving you a chance to win a $500,000 home or $300,000 cash prize. Learn more here.

School District Highlights

🌟 Parkway Announces Award Nominees

The Pillar of Parkway selection process is underway with 62 nominees recognized for their contributions. Nominees have shown consistent leadership while inspiring others and exceeding expectations in their roles. Winners will join Teachers of the Year and other honorees at the district's Appreciation Evening celebration scheduled for April 28.

Ballwin

🕺 Friday Night 80s Mystery Event

Limited tickets remain available for a special event this weekend. Ballwin Parks and Recreation is hosting an "I LOVE THE 80's TO DEATH" Murder Mystery dinner on Friday from 6:30-10:30pm. Each ticket includes dinner with gluten-free, vegan, and fish options, plus an open bar. The four-hour event will combine entertainment with a full meal experience. To learn more / purchase tickets click here.

Chesterfield

🚲 Chesterfield Updates Bike-Walk Plan

Chesterfield is moving forward with updates to its Bikeable Walkable Plan. At a February 20th open house, city officials presented draft improvements for pedestrians and cyclists, with 65 community members attending. Residents previously identified Schoettler Road, Wild Horse Creek Road, and Chesterfield Valley as priority areas for enhancement. The city plans to coordinate with MoDOT and St. Louis County on implementation.

🗳️ Two Candidates Running for Chesterfield Mayor

Two small business owners with public service backgrounds are running for Chesterfield mayor. Dan Hurt has served multiple terms on the City Council since 1989 and owns manufacturing companies. Derek Grier previously served on the council and as a state representative while running real estate and consulting businesses. Both candidates recently discussed their visions for Chesterfield's future with the West Newsmagazine here.

Creve Coeur

🔨 Council Votes 6-1 Against School House

After six months of consideration, Creve Coeur officials have voted to demolish the historic Lake School House. The decision followed a site inspection where officials discovered a damaged basement beam requiring replacement. Council members noted the building lacks heating and cooling, would need significant investment, and the small antique desks inside are impractical for most events.

Des Peres

🏊 The Lodge Des Peres Hiring for Summer

Summer job opportunities await at The Lodge Des Peres. The recreation center needs pool staff, camp counselors, and concessions workers. Employee benefits include Lodge membership and free safety certifications for eligible positions. Application details can be found online here.

Ellisville

⚾ Ellisville Rec Department Needs Staff

Ellisville Parks and Recreation Department is currently hiring for several positions. They need concession workers, front desk staff, and T-Ball coaches to join their team.

Upcoming Events

THANKS!

Thanks for reading this edition of the ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter. If you found something useful, please share it with a friend!

Did I miss something? Let me know at [email protected]

Interested in advertising your business in the West County Pulse? Let’s talk