Police Chief Chat

This past week the Rolla Police Department handled 768 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 34 arrests, 20 accidents, 66 traffic complaints, 87 traffic stops, 8 suspicious nature calls, 7 recovered property reports, 12 loud noise complaints, 26 assists of other agencies, 9 fingerprint requests, 4 mental health calls, 4 prowler calls, 36 animal calls, 11 alarms and 3 trespassing calls. This call total is up 36 calls from last week. Another busy week!

On October 2, 2010 at approximately 10:20 PM, the Rolla Police Department received a 911 call regarding an armed robbery that had just occurred at the Country Mart grocery store located in the 1000 block of Forum Drive in Rolla, Missouri. A single suspect, dressed in a dark-colored hooded sweatshirt, dark-colored jacket, and blue jeans, entered the business armed with an edged-weapon. The suspect threatened several employees and demanded money. The suspect was able to obtain cash from the business and then fled on foot running north through the parking lot towards Forum Drive. A search of the area by law enforcement officers was conducted but the suspect was not located, however evidence from the crime scene, along with the weapon used and the clothing of the suspect, was found nearby the scene of the robbery. The amount of money stolen and further details are not being disclosed at this time. None of the victims involved sustained any injuries.

On October 4, 2010 the Rolla Police Department's Division of Criminal Investigations Unit received a tip on the identity of a possible suspect in this crime. After receiving the tip, Detectives and Uniformed Officers began following up on the tip. The suspect was later located and questioned regarding this robbery. A search warrant was later obtained for the suspect's residence located in the 1900 block of Farrar Drive. Seized during the execution of the search warrant was marijuana, drug paraphernalia and a substantial amount of money believed to have been stolen during the robbery. Arrested was Marquis D. Robinson age 34 of Rolla, Missouri. Robinson was arrested for 1st Degree Robbery, Armed Criminal Action, Felonious Restraint, Possession of Marijuana & Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Robinson was later incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail, pending warrant application. "The apprehension of this suspect is yet another example of the teamwork in our community. Had it not been for that one tip, we may have never identified the suspect or solved this crime. I am extremely proud of the efforts of the officers who investigated this serious crime." In appreciation for his service to the Rolla Police Department and the Rolla community, I presented the citizen (who wishes to remain anonymous) who contacted us with the confidential tip, the Rolla Police Department Certificate of Appreciation for his contribution.

On October 05, 2010 at approximately 11:45 a.m., The Rolla Police Department was notified of two suspicious acting individuals who were attempting to pawn several weapons at a local pawn shop. Upon arrival of the initial responding units, officers encountered two white male individuals outside the establishment near a vehicle with out of state registration. Upon investigation by the responding officers it was determined that the vehicle had been reported as stolen in Schuylkill County, Pennsylvania on October 03, 2010. Officers quickly detained the two individuals. As a result of the ensuing investigation, officers discovered 6 firearms and camping gear which had been reported as stolen during the burglary of an Outdoor Store in Watertown, New York on October 01, 2010. Further investigation revealed that the two had robbed a hunter at gunpoint in Pennsylvania and had stolen his vehicle and crossbow after assaulting him. Arrested was Philip E. Hemminger, age 18 of Black River, New York, and Andrew M. O’Connor, age 19 of Carthae, New York. Hemminger & O'Connor were arrested and charged with Receiving Stolen Property. Both were incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail in lieu of a $400,000.00 bond, and pending extradition back to Pennsylvania and New York where they will face additional charges in those jurisdictions."The arrests of these two armed criminals were a direct result of our citizens cooperating and notifying law enforcement of suspicious activity, for that I would like to thank them for their initiative." In appreciation of his service to the Rolla Police Department and to the citizens of our community, I presented Chad Warren, owner of Warren Pawn and Gun of Rolla, the Rolla Police Department Certificate of Appreciation for his actions.

This next entry is a letter sent to me by a citizen in our community that was experiencing a bad reaction to prescribed medication. The citizen writes: I wanted to thank the officers who assisted me on September 9th, 2010. I believe they were, Sgt. Frey, Cpl. Dillon and SPO Davis. I was having a very bad reaction to some medication that was prescribed by Pathways, and I did not catch the reaction before I had totally destabilized. Not only were they very helpful, they helped keep my little dog, Annie, a standard cairn terrier who was in a puppy mill for 9 and a half years before I got her. My social worker was going to keep her, and they were instrumental in getting her to a safe place in the apartment and contacting her to come get her because I knew I was going to have to go into the hospital for a few days at least. She is very important to me, as a companion and therapeutic aid for my depression and anxiety. These men went above and beyond the call of duty, treating me so gently and so well until an ambulance could arrive and assess my situation. I was very upset about the situation and they were calm and reassuring to me about Annie and that I needed help, which I knew. I am active on the facebook page, and I got the names from there. My great appreciation needs to be passed along to these fine men, and I think they need a special thanks and recognition for their aid in my time of confusion and darkness. Please pass this note along to them, and let them know that they represent the best of our men in blue! Great job to Sgt. John Frey, Cpl. Derrick Dillon and Spo. Tommy Davis!

From the staff at Animal Control: On Saturday October 23rd, 2010, a one day free clinic will be held at the Phelps County Fairgrounds Community Building. Dogs and cats will be vaccinated free of charge. Owners will be responsible for securing pets during the procedure. All dogs must be leashed and cats must be in a secure crate or pet carrier. If any animals show signs of aggression the Phelps County Health Department reserves the right to refuse service in the interest of safety. Participating veterinarians are Dr. Brian Janke, Dr. Justin Berger and Dr. Mark Ranney. The clinic will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This past week, we took delivery on a new 2011 Harley-Davidson Police Electra-Glide motorcycle to replace the two 2010 Electra-Glides from our motorcycle division. Each year we lease 2 new motorcycles from Ozark Harley-Davidson in Lebanon, Missouri. The lease price is a fraction of the cost of the motorcycles and entitles us to use them for a year in our motorcycle program. The program was re-instituted in 2001 with the lease of a 2002 Harley-Davidson Road King. We continued leasing 1 motorcycle per year until 2005 when we realized the popularity and service offered by motorcycle patrol was on the rise and began to lease 2 bikes per year. This trend continued until this year where budget constraints restricted our lease options to 1 motorcycle. This year’s edition includes a black and white paint scheme to match the theme used on our patrol cars.

In closing, I would like to remind you that our 10th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run “Trivia Night” will be held next Saturday, October 16, 2010 at the Rolla Elk’s Lodge. The event has been declared the best trivia in the area and offers loads of fun, good healthy competition, free dinner and a cash bar. Teams of up to 10 members will answer 10 questions in 10 different categories with the winner being the team that correctly answers the most questions. Winners receive the coveted traveling trophy and will gain free berth to next year’s event. Our guest emcee this year is former Phelps County Prosecuting Attorney and Circuit Judge John Wiggins. Cost to enter a team is $100.00 donation to Special Olympics. To enter a team contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

City to make plans for 150th birthday celebration

It wasn’t too long ago that members of the Phelps County Commission, and residents of Phelps County gathered in front of the Phelps County Courthouse to pay tribute to the 150th Anniversary (Sesquicentennial) of Phelps County on June 2, 2007. And if you didn’t have an opportunity to attend that event, you missed not only a very well planned and orchestrated celebration, but an historic event filled with music, historical re-enactments, well-known speakers, the Rolla High School chorus and so much more. 

Fast forward now to June 4, 2011, which is the planned date the City will be celebrating the City of Rolla’s 150th birthday as well. The City’s 150th birthday, or date of incorporation, was officially on Jan. 25, 1861, but in an effort to attract bigger crowds and generate more interest for the City’s Sesquicentennial Celebration, the celebration, like the County’s Sesquicentennial held three years ago, will be held the weekend of Rolla’s Route 66 Summerfest on Saturday, June 4, 2011. 

The Rolla City Council recently approved the formation of a planning committee that will be meeting to discuss the various activities, and schedule of events that will be part of the City’s Sesquicentennial. I’ll be sure to keep the community informed of this event, and the ideas that are generated from the planning committee over the next several months. But please put this date on your calendars for next year!

Speaking of celebrations, the Celebration of Nations will be held today, Saturday, Oct. 9 beginning with a parade of nations (81 total) that begins at the Havener Center on the Missouri S&T campus and ends at the downtown bandshell at 9th and Oak Streets. The parade will actually meander through the downtown business district, up Pine Street and down 9th Street before they begin the second part of the event, which is the Festival of Nations, and the International Idol competition at the bandshell and Downtown Festival Park. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and I’m hoping there will be a huge show of support from our community for this inaugural event. I hope to see you there!

In closing, I’d like to extend my sincere appreciation to the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance and the Rolla Police Department for hosting the very successful third annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-up. It is amazing to see just how much can be accomplished with 100 or more volunteers, together with the assistance of businesses, organizations and agencies who want to give back to their community. This event would not be the success it is without this collaborative effort, and everyone who participated, including the Rolla Police Department, Public Works, Parks and Recreation, Fire and Rescue, and Environmental Services Departments, who really came through big for the third year in row. We have a very community-minded City, and Operation Neighborhood Clean-up truly illustrates how helpful and generous so many individuals in our community can be.

Thanks again for all you do!

Fall into wellness on Deible Loop Bike Path

Fall is by far one of the best times of the year to enjoy the beauty, serenity, and recreational opportunities that abound in the Rolla area and Meramec Valley Region. But before I invite you to explore one of the newest additions to the City’s ever-expanding pedestrian bike path network, I’d like to welcome all of the visitors and Missouri S&T alumni, who will be attending the 32nd Annual Fall Arts and Crafts Festival in downtown Rolla (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the various Missouri S&T homecoming festivities that are planned this weekend. If you haven’t visited the Rolla area for any length of time, I think you may be surprised with the many exciting changes and developments that are occurring in our area.

Many new restaurants, retail establishments, building projects, and even intersections and roadways, such as the Bryant Drive Extension on Kingshighway, reflect the upward growth trend that Rolla is experiencing. And what is more noteworthy is that much of this growth and expansion is attracting national retailers and businesses that see the benefit of relocating to the Rolla area where our unique location at the crossroads of I-44, State Road 63, and Hwy. 72, coupled with our distinction as the regional hub for South Central Missouri, is very appealing.

One of the greatest benefits of living in and visiting the Rolla area is spending time outdoors in one of our beautiful parks or on one of the City’s pedestrian bike paths. The most recent addition to our pedestrian bike path network is the new 1.8-mile-long Deible Loop Pedestrian Bike Path, which increases the length of the City’s trail system to over 12 miles. The Deible Loop Pedestrian Bike Path was designed by the City’s Public Works Department and runs adjacent to Lions Club Drive along Deible Creek from O Highway to State Road 63 South at CC Highway. The easiest way to access the Deible Loop Pedestrian Bike Path is at the ACORN Trail trailhead parking lot located on O Highway across from the Rolla Municipal Utilities’ service station just north of Sycamore Drive. You can park in the parking lot, follow the sidewalk that crosses Sycamore Drive and be on your way along the new trail. If you would like to obtain a map of the City’s pedestrian bike path network you can either view it online at www.rollacity.org, or pick one up at the Rolla Visitors Center located on Bridge School Road or at Rolla City Hall (901 N. Elm Street). I think residents and visitors alike will delight in the beauty and serenity of this new section of the City’s pedestrian bike network.

In closing, I’d like to once again encourage the community to attend the inaugural Celebration of Nations event next Saturday, Oct. 9. The event was created to promote awareness, understanding and the celebration of the ways cultural diversity enriches Rolla, Missouri University of Science and Technology, and the world. A Parade of Nations will kick off the event at 11 a.m. when the parade begins at the Missouri S&T Havener Center, (located on the Missouri S&T campus), travel through the downtown area, and end at the downtown bandshell. Colorful flags representing 81 countries of origin of the residents of this region will be carried in the parade. Following the parade, there will be festivities featuring international arts, crafts and food. There will also be an International Idol talent competition, which will be held at the downtown bandshell. Sponsors of the event include the City of Rolla; Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center; Missouri S&T’s student chapter of Engineers Without Borders; and Missouri S&T’s economics department, international affairs’ office, leadership and cultural programs, provost’s office and student life department. For more information about the Celebration of Nations please contact Stephane Menand at menands@mst.edu

I hope you enjoy the beautiful fall weather and all the festivities and events planned for this special weekend in Rolla.

City to sponsor numerous community events & festivals

One of the pillars of any healthy, pro-active communities is the ability for community agencies, governmental bodies, organizations, businesses, universities, colleges, and individuals to work collaboratively for the good of the community. That’s why I’m excited to tell you about the many activities and events that are planned in the Rolla area the next two weekends. I hope you be able to attend and participate in as many of these events as possible.

Let’s begin first with what’s happening on Friday, Oct. 1. The third annual Operation Neighborhood Cleanup will take place in the neighborhood homes south of 7th Street to Hwy. 72 and from Holloway Street to Elm Street. The clean-up will take place from 7 a.m. to 12-noon. The entire community is invited to participate in this beautification effort, which is once again being coordinated by the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance and the Rolla Police Department. The clean-up effort will involve tree trimming, hedge trimming, and the removal of brush piles, household items and trash. All volunteers are asked to attend the welcome gathering on at 6:30 a.m. at the Christian Life Center located at the corner of Olive and 1st Streets. A complimentary breakfast will be provided. The 5-hour clean-up will conclude at 12-noon. Groups or individuals interested in volunteering for Operation Neighborhood Clean-up should contact SSgt. Rick Williams at the Rolla Police Department at 308-1213 or at rickwilliams@rollacity.org.

On Saturday, Oct. 2 the City of Rolla Environmental Services Department will hold the annual City-wide Fall Clean-up. If you wish to participate, please place all items near the curb by 6 a.m. Examples of items that will be accepted are furniture, microwaves, televisions, old clothes, and normal household trash. Items that will not be accepted are appliances, water heaters, yard waste, tires, or construction debris such as sheet rock, shingles, concrete or rock. Loose items should be placed in boxes or bags and small pieces of lumber should be bundled. We ask that you do not place rollout trash containers at the curb because during this special fall clean-up they will not be emptied. For more information, please call 364-6693.

Also scheduled for next Saturday, Oct. 2 is the ever popular 32nd annual Fall Arts and Crafts Festival. The Rolla Downtown Business Association (RDBA) will host the festival from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Pine Street in downtown Rolla. The event coincides each year with Missouri S&T homecoming festivities, and includes one-of-a-kind crafts, food, live entertainment and informational booths. For more information, please contact Robin Rogers at 573-341-5488 or Jodi Layman at 573-426-5148.

In closing I’d like to also encourage everyone to attend the Celebrations of Nations event, which will be held two weeks from today on Saturday, Oct. 9. Area residents and university students will have an opportunity to gather together to celebrate the vibrant cultural diversity that makes Rolla unique to the Missouri Ozarks. The event was created to promote awareness, understanding and the celebration of the ways cultural diversity enriches Rolla, Missouri University of Science and Technology, and the world. A Parade of Nations will kick off the event at 11 a.m. when the parade begins at the Missouri S&T Havener Center, (located on the Missouri S&T campus), travel through the downtown area, and end at the downtown bandshell (located in the City’s Downtown Festival Park on the corner of 9th and Oak Streets).

Colorful flags representing 82 countries of origin of the residents of this region will be carried in the parade. Community groups, marching bands and area school children are invited to participate. Following the parade, there will be festivities featuring international arts, crafts and food. There will also be an International Idol talent competition, which will be held at the downtown bandshell. For more information about the Celebration of Nations please contact Stephane Menand at menands@mst.edu. Sponsors of the event include the City of Rolla; Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center; Missouri S&T’s student chapter of Engineers Without Borders; and Missouri S&T’s economics department, international affairs’ office, leadership and cultural programs, provost’s office and student life department. 

Police Chief Chat

The Rolla Police Department handled 874 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 42 arrests, 26 accidents, 67 traffic complaints, 175 traffic stops, 44 follow up investigations, 13 suspicious nature calls, 12 loud noise complaints, 27 assists of other agencies, 6 fingerprint requests, 3 benevolent fund requests, 4 soliciting, 5 trespassing, 13 escorts, 4 narcotics complaints and 19 public relations contacts. This call total is up 91 calls from last week. Yet, another busy week!

Next Friday, October 1st, the Rolla Police Department and the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance will be conducting our 3rd Annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-Up. Operation Clean-up began in 2008 when the Rolla Police Department teamed with the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance to provide clean-up and beautification services to the residents in parts of the city where the property owners were unable to perform these duties themselves. The operation was designed to enhance the neighborhood’s sense of community and increase property values. The clean-up effort will involve tree trimming, hedge trimming and the removal of brush piles, household items and trash. Also supporting the operation will be Rolla Sanitation, Rolla Municipal Utilities, Rolla Parks and Recreation, Rolla Street Department, Fidelity Communications, CenturyLink and Rolla Fire and Rescue. In addition we also rely on hundreds of volunteers from area churches, businesses and the community to complete the operation. This year’s target area will be the area south of 7th to Hwy 72 and then in between Elm and Rolla Gardens. We will begin the operation at 6:00 a.m. at the Christian Life Center located at 305 E. 1st St. If you would like to help contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

This past week four of our communications personnel had the opportunity to attend the Missouri APCO (Association of Public Safety Communications Officials) Conference in Jefferson City. This annual conference focuses on offering training for dispatchers, supervisors and technical support personnel as well as offering many positive networking opportunities. Some of the training topics they attended were Fire Dispatch, MULES updates, Amber Alerts, Victim Automatic Notification System, Media Relations, Radio Narrowband Mandate, Suicide in law enforcement and Communication Standards. Attending the conference this year was Telecommunicator Matt Goss, Communications Supervisors Stacey Smith, Communications Supervisor Scott Olds and Communications Chief Paula Volkmer.

Also this past week we were saddened to hear about the passing of Ann Freeman who passed on Sunday, September 19th. Among many other talents, Ann was a school crossing guard stationed many years at the intersection of Soest Road and Salem Avenue. Many of you will remember her for her for the joyfully dramatic way in which she greeted everyone as she lovingly performed her duties. In spite of rain, cold, heat and heavy traffic, Ann always had a smile on her face and would greet passing motorists with her matronly bow. We have lost a good friend and a major contribution to the “Good Life” here in Rolla.

On Thursday, a citizen came to my office to tell me that Rolla Police Sgt. Jeremy Martens is not only a great officer but also a great person. The citizen said that he had been involved in a minor traffic accident this morning, and that Sgt. Martens was dispatched to the scene. Sgt. Martens worked the accident and then changed his tire on the citizen’s vehicle as it had been damaged in the collision. Sgt. Martens then followed him and noticed that his car was not driving properly, so he called a tow truck and got him to a garage to have it worked on. Sgt Martens then told him if he did not have a ride to get home to call him and he would give him a ride home. Outstanding job Sgt Martens. We can’t do this all the time because of our work load, but it’s nice when we can. The citizen also says that he appreciates our Police Department and even the Chief! I liked that!

Don’t forget our upcoming Law Enforcement Torch Run “Trivia Night” to benefit Special Olympics, to be held Saturday, October 16, 2010. Teams of up to 10 members will answer 10 questions on 10 different topics. The team with the most correct answers will be declared “Champion” and will be honored with the coveted “traveling trophy” and will be awarded free berth to our 2011 Trivia night. Cost per team is $100 donation to Special Olympics. Our special guest emcee is Honorable Judge John Wiggins. Dinner will be provided and a cash bar is available. Teams slots are filling rapidly so contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams to enter a team. It is a night of fun and suspense and all proceeds benefit our Special Olympic athletes.

In closing, we would like to thank those of you that ventured out to Love's Truck Stop last Friday night to "Gas up for a Good Cause". Rolla Police Officers and Phelps County Sheriff's Deputies pumped gas and cleaned windshields and were able to raise over $800.00 for the Children's Miracle Network. This was our 4th year for the event and our biggest so far. Special thanks to Phelps County Sheriff Rick Lisenbe and his crew for their assistance in this event.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Commemorative Air Force lands at Rolla National Air Port

Just days after the Rolla City Council approved the new Master Plan and Airport Layout Plan designed by TranSystems for Rolla National Airport a fleet of vintage World War II aircraft operated by members of the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) landed at RNA.

The fleet of six aircraft, originally World War II American made Naval trainers (T-3s and T-6s), was led by flight leader Mark Allen, who along with six other pilots and crew members had landed at Rolla National Airport last Friday, Sept. 10. Rolla National Airport, which is owned and operated by the City of Rolla, is located 13 miles north of Rolla off Hwy. 63. The pilots, whose aircraft are painted to resemble WWII Japanese aircraft and the infamous Zeros, were scheduled to perform at an air show at Scott Air Force Base (located 20 miles from St. Louis) on Saturday, Sept. 11. Due to bad weather conditions, the pilots decided to refuel their aircraft at RNA, and spend the night in Rolla mid-way on the journey between Springfield and Scott Air Force Base. They departed RNA Saturday morning as the skies cleared just in time to make it for the air show.

According to the official Website of the Commemorative Air Force (www.commemorativeairforce.org), formerly known as the Confederate Air Force, the CAF is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization whose purpose relates to the preservation, demonstration, and display of military aircraft through the ages. CAF is a Texas-based organization dedicated to preserving and showing historical aircraft at air shows primarily throughout the U.S. and Canada. CAF consists of over 11,000 members comprising more than 70 regional groups, called wings or detachments, in 27 states and four other countries. Several hundred members actively serve as pilots and flight and/or maintenance crew members committed to preserving combat aviation heritage.

I think I speak for Wes Faulkner, Airport Manager at Rolla National Airport, and his staff, when I say what an honor and a delight it was to personally witness the members of the CAF land at Rolla National Airport last weekend on their way to Scott Air Force Base. I think their brief visit is indicative of the variety of aircraft that stop at RNA to either refuel or make adjustments to their flight schedules, and how significant it is that Rolla has its own airport with two 5,550-foot runways, numerous T-hangers, a pilot’s lounge, and a fueling station.

In closing, I’d like to welcome everyone to attend our next City Council meeting on Monday, Sept. 20 where the second reading of the City’s $24 million proposed 2010-2011 budget will be considered by members of the City Council.

The Healthy Baby Extravaganza will also be held on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Greentree Christian Church and City of Rolla Fire and Rescue located on 10th Street. And don’t forget to recycle your old computers, appliances and tires at the Electronics, Appliance and Tire Collection on Saturday, Sept. 25 from 8 a.m. to 12-noon at the Brewer Science, Inc. Parking Lot located at 2401 Brewer Drive (located in Hypoint Industrial Park at I-44, Exit 189/Hwy. V). The following items may be dropped off free of charge: stoves, washers, dryers, microwaves and other appliances without refrigerant; computer CPUs, keyboards, printers, VCRs, cell phones and other electronics. Items must be unloaded by the individuals who are dropping them off. The following items will require a fee: passenger tires - $1.50 each; truck tires - $5 each and tractor tires - $10 each (no tires from businesses please); TVs - $10 businesses/$5 residents; computer monitors: $5 each; refrigerant appliances: $50 each (no material from businesses, please).

This event is being sponsored by the City of Rolla, Phelps County Commission, Brewer Science, Inc.; Ozark Rivers Solid Waste Management District, Missouri Department of Natural Resources and Meramec Regional Planning Commission (MRPC). For more information, please contact MRPC at (573) 265-2993.

Have a great weekend, and enjoy the cool fall weather.

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 783 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 28 arrests, 21 accidents, 57 traffic complaints, 108 traffic stops, 12 suspicious nature calls, 7 escorts, 9 loud noise complaints, 17 alarms, 3 harassment, 7 assaults, 4 fight calls, 2 missing persons, 2 benevolent fund requests, 30 security checks, 3 gas drive offs, 9 loud noise complaints. This call total is up 60 calls from last week’s call total. Yet another busy week!

This past week, Cpl. Tim Mayfield, Spo. Tony Lauth and Spo. Chrissy Smith attended the 25th Crash Reconstruction School offered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy in Jefferson City, Missouri. The course is 80 hours of instruction through lectures, projects, and in-depth analysis of actual collisions. Many trained police officers have difficulty getting their crash investigation findings admitted into court. This course is designed to help overcome this difficulty by enabling a well-trained police officer to qualify as an expert and give expert testimony in a court of law relative to the causation factors in motor vehicle traffic crashes. A student who successfully completes this course will be able to give expert testimony in the following areas: Speed of vehicles at impact using conservation of linear momentum, behavior of vehicles in a collision using Newton’s three laws of motion, the effect of weight shift in braking involving large trucks and buses, including truck-tractor/semi-trailer combinations, the effect of anti-skid braking systems in stopping distances and braking action and the determination of direction of travel, initial contact, and position of vehicles on the roadway through the interpretation of vehicle damage and the analysis of at scene marks and evidence.

On Wednesday, September 15th 2010 at approximately 9:40 p.m., the Rolla Police Department received a report of a shooting. It was determined that a 24 year old male had been taken to the Phelps County Regional Medical Center with a single gunshot wound to the leg. It was later determined that the shooting had occurred in the 1000 block of S. U.S. Highway 63 in Rolla. Uniformed Officers and Detectives from the Rolla Police Department's Division of Criminal Investigations began investigating the case. A short time later the suspect was identified and was located in the 100 block of Little Oaks Road in Rolla. Arrested was Shaun Allen age 31 of Rolla, Missouri. Allen was later incarcerated in the Phelps County Jail pending warrant application on the charges of Assault 1st Degree and Armed Criminal Action. The victim of the shooting was treated and later released from the Phelps County Regional Medical Center. The handgun used in the shooting was recovered. The victim and suspect were acquaintances and the shooting was believed to have been as a result of an ongoing dispute. Agencies assisting in the investigation included the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department. The charges for which Shaun Allen was arrested for are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. If you have additional information pertaining to this case please call the Rolla Police Department at (573) 308-1213 or the Rolla Police Department’s confidential tip hotline at (573) 364-0111. Great job to MSHP, PCSD and the Rolla Police Department!

We are still looking for volunteers for our 3rd Annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-up scheduled for Friday, October 1, 2010. Operation Neighborhood Clean-up is a joint venture between the Rolla Police Department and the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance which incorporates community volunteers, government and local business to conduct a clean-up/ beautification operation to help those in the community that cannot help themselves. If you would like to participate, please contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

On a light side, I received a letter this week from a citizen who had found some humor in something listed in this column. She stated, “Would you please explain what in the world a ‘Suspicious Nature Call’ is?….My first thought when I saw it, after I stopped laughing was, it was worded improperly…. The way something is worded can certainly change the meaning.” Well, I suppose there are a variety of ways that phrase could be taken. Let’s rule out all possibilities of reports of strange people taking bathroom breaks on the side of the road (Nature CALLS). And I can also guarantee these aren’t conservation calls relating to the unusual migratory patterns of birds (NATURE calls). In law enforcement, a “suspicious nature call” is simply a call of suspicious nature that doesn’t quite fit in any other category. For instance, it could be a report of an occupied car parked in an unusual location, or a suspicious looking person seen on school property, or an unidentified package left on a porch….anything that strikes someone as being unusual, and they believe it should be checked into. If anyone has any other questions, I’m always open to opportunities to clarify things for the public. Hope this helped!

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Commemorative Air Force lands at Rolla National Airport

Pilots and crew members with the Commemorative Air Force landed at Rolla National Airport to refuel their fleet of six vintage WWII Naval trainers (T-3s and T-6s) on Sept. 10. The aircraft are painted to resemble WWII Japanese aircraft known as Zeros. The CAF is a Texas-based all-volunteer organization dedicated to preserving and showing historical aircraft at air shows throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 723 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 28 arrests, 18 accidents, 61 traffic complaints, 143 traffic stops, 3 juvenile complaints, 19 suspicious nature calls, 2 benevolent funds, 2 recovered property reports, 29 disturbance calls to include domestics, 11 assists of other agencies, 5 fingerprint requests, 14 stealing reports and 19 check well being requests. This call total is down 54 calls from last week. Another busy week!

On Wednesday of this week, the Rolla Police Department held our first of 12 sessions of our Citizen’s Police Academy. The Citizens Police Academy is a program of instruction by police officers for interested citizens as part of the Department’s community policing philosophy. The goals are to increase awareness of the functions of the Police Department and to increase police/community rapport by sharing concerns through an educative process. Classes meet for four hours, once a week for twelve weeks. All sessions are held in the evening at the Rolla Police Department, with the exception of one Saturday session which is held at the firing range. Participants are invited to ride along with a police officer to see first-hand what happens on the street. Citizens will learn of Internal Affairs and Polygraph Operation, Complaints and Reports, Criminal and Crime Scene Investigation, School Resource Officer program, Police Explorer Post program, DWI Detection, Narcotics Investigation, Emergency Operations and Community Policing, Animal Control, Defense Tactics, Officer Survival, SWAT Team Operations, Fire Arms Training, Central Communications, Traffic Accident Investigation, Traffic Stops, Radar Detection, Arrest and Booking Procedures and Volunteers in Police Services. This year’s academy has 12 citizens in attendance.

I received a letter on Friday from a long-time acquaintance who was the victim of a of a leaving the scene property destruction at his residence. Officer Leann Robertson responded to the call. The letter states as follows: Last night a young lady, an international student at MS&T, accidentally ran through my mailbox. Since it was one of those enclosed in brick and mortar it made quite a mess of both the mailbox and, I’m sure, the car which I have not seen. It developed the young lady had low blood sugar, left the scene and went home. Thankfully, she was un-injured. Officer Leann Robertson responded to take a report and quite obviously, checked up and down the street with some effort, located the girl, and brought her by to talk to me today. All was settled amicably and insurance will cover it. I think the young lady was prepared to come see me by herself so it was probably not a typical hit and run. None-the-less a lot of credit to your officer.

The letter continues: The reason I am writing this is as a thank you and high marks for Officer Leann. She went to the trouble of following up and unerringly did exactly the right thing in a highly professional manner. If she is representative of your officers we are very well protected. Sincerely, (author’s name withheld by me). Thank you to the author for the kind remarks and a great job to Lean!

This past Tuesday was a dedicated training day and several officers underwent 8 hours of Police Taser re-certification training offered by our in-house certified Taser instructors, Detective Hank Harper and Patrol Officer Jessie Hoyt. Officers were required to demonstrate their proficiency in the use of this tool and the non-discrimination in the use. The Taser is an electroshock weapon that uses electrical current to disrupt voluntary control of muscles. Its manufacturer, Taser International, calls the effects "neuromuscularincapacitation"[1] and the devices' mechanism "Electro-Muscular Disruption (EMD) technology".[2] Someone struck by a Taser experiences stimulation of his or her sensory nerves and motor nerves, resulting in strong involuntary muscle contractions. Tasers do not rely only on pain compliance, and are thus preferred by some law enforcement over non-Taser stun guns and other electronic control weapons.

The 3rd Annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-up is underway as over 480 waiver/consent forms have been distributed in our 2010 target area. Residents in this area are to complete the form by listing the type of clean-up assistance they require and then return the form to us. The next stage is where several volunteer assessment teams will return to the area and personally meet with the residents requesting assistance and will draw up work orders listing those tasks. The assistance provided will be in the way of tree trimming, lawn mowing, brush and discarded appliance removal, and other tasks that will be provided free of charge by the operation volunteers. Volunteers are comprised of police officers, church leaders, civic groups, student volunteers, construction and utility employees and neighbors. The date of the Operation Neighborhood Clean-up will be held Friday, October 1, 2010 from 6:30 a.m. till 12:00 p.m. If you would like to volunteer and assist us in this operation contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213!

In closing, I would like to take this opportunity to invite all motorists to join us in our 4th Annual “Gas up for a Good Cause” campaign where Rolla Police Officers and Phelps County Sheriff’s Deputies converge on the Love’s Truck Stop gas pumps to clean windshields and pump gas for you in an effort to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network. This event will be held on Friday, September 17, 2010 from 4-8 p.m. at Love’s Truck Stop located at I-44 and Hwy V. If you need a fill-up or just topped off, stop by and let us do it for you. All tips or donations received will benefit CMN! Come on out and help us help the kids!

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Labor Day Holiday kicks off fall festivities

September and the Labor Day weekend have finally arrived in typical Missouri fashion after what seemed like one of the hottest and longest summers on record. Yet despite the seemingly endless 90-degree hot spells much was accomplished this summer throughout the City, including the paving of 10th Street from Pine Street to Forum Drive, and the micro-paving of numerous streets throughout the community by the City’s Street Department, Rolla Asphalt and Donnelson Construction Company. I have received many positive comments from residents in the community regarding these projects, and I’d like to extend my appreciation again to the City’s Public Works Department, and especially Gene Stroup, Project Coordinator, who ensured that these projects were completed on time, on budget, and with minimal disruption to motorists and residents.

The next big City project scheduled for this month is the construction of the Bryant Drive Extension, which will begin when the McDonalds restaurant located at Kingshighway and Bryant Drive is demolished and rebuilt in the coming weeks. The Bryant Drive Extension will provide a new intersection at Bryant Drive and Kingshighway in front of McDonalds and Pizza Inn that will serve as one of the gateways to Missouri S&T’s Innovation Park. Later this fall the Missouri Department of Transportation will also be relocating the traffic light currently at Kingshighway and Fairgrounds Road to the new intersection at Bryant Drive and Kingshighway. Better traffic flow, increased safety, and less traffic congestion on Kingshighway should be some of the noticeable benefits of this new intersection.

September is also a pivotal month for the City of Rolla in that citizens are encouraged to attend and provide input at the 2010-2011 annual budget public hearing scheduled for the first City Council meeting on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The second reading to approve the annual budget ordinance will be held at the City Council meeting  on Monday, Sept. 20 at 6:30 p.m. at Rolla City Hall. If approved by the City Council, the new budget year will begin with a 2% COLA (Cost of Living Allowance) for all full-time City employees; the funding (for ½ year) of a City Engineer position; hiring of two new police officers, and the replacement of a 1981 90-foot aerial ladder truck.

Due to the success of the City’s Employee Wellness Program, there will again be no increase in health insurance premiums for full-time City employees. At a time when 65% of the businesses throughout the country in private industry are raising health insurance premiums, it is noteworthy that the City has managed to refrain from any health insurance premium increases over the past three years. While sales tax revenues are showing positive signs of recovery, (sales tax receipts are up 1.7% since January 2010), a conservative 1% growth in sales tax revenue is also included in the City’s annual budget. As you drive around town and notice the construction and renovation of several new office buildings, restaurants, and multi-family apartments, it’s evident the economy is picking up steam and Rolla is positioned to attract even more new businesses, retail stores, restaurants and industry.

As we head into the fall season don’t forget to mark your calendars for the 3rd Annual Operation Neighborhood Clean-up on Friday, Oct. 1 (meet for breakfast and greeting at the Christian Life Center at 6:30 a.m.); the City-wide Fall Clean-up on Saturday, Oct. 1 (items to curb by 6 a.m./residential only); the 32nd Annual Fall Arts and Crafts Festival in downtown Rolla (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and the inaugural Celebration of Nations event on Saturday, Oct. 9 (parade starts at 11 a.m.in front of the Havener Center) and the Rolla Regional Business Conference hosted by the Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, Oct. 20 at the Havener Center (9 a.m. – 4 p.m.). For more information on any of the above mentioned events, please visit the City’s Website at www.rollacity.org or become a ‘Fan’ of the City’s Facebook page.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that the City Council meeting will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall (901 North Elm Street). Rolla Municipal Traffic Court will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. Monday’s trash will be picked up on Tuesday, Sept. 7 and Tuesday’s trash will be picked up on Wednesday. There will be no special pickups on Wednesday. This weekend will also be the final weekend SplashZone (Rolla’s outdoor water park), will be open this year. Closing day at SplashZone is Monday (Labor Day), Sept. 6 from 12-noon to 5 p.m.

I hope you had a safe and memorable Labor Day weekend!

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 797 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 25 arrests, 24 accidents, 65 traffic complaints, 158 traffic stops, 6 juvenile complaints, 15 suspicious nature calls, 3 benevolent funds, 3 recovered property reports, 36 disturbance calls to include domestics, 19 assists of other agencies, 3 fingerprint requests, 1 school crossing detail, 14 stealing calls and 19 check well being requests. This call total is up 60 calls from last week…. yes, another busy week!

On Tuesday, August 31, 2010, the South Central Drug Task Force, Rolla Police Department and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department concluded a short term narcotics investigation in the 1700 block of Ashwood Drive in Rolla, Missouri. As a result of the investigation, officers seized approximately two pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and a large amount of US currency. The following people were arrested and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail: Daniel Jones, age 33 of Rolla, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute, and Sarah Carroll age 42 of Richland, possession of marijuana with the intent to distribute. The charges for which Jones and Carroll were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. Great job!

On Tuesday night members of the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance, Volunteers in Police Services and the Rolla Police Department distributed over 450 Operation Neighborhood Clean-up waiver/consent forms to each home within our 2010 Neighborhood Clean-up area. As you may know, our annual clean-up operation is a program where the community teams with the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance, city government and local business to conduct a clean-up/ beautification operation to help those in the community that cannot help themselves. Once an area is chosen, volunteers pass out waiver/consent forms to each address in the designated area. The forms need to be filled out by property owners who need assistance in this program. Assistance comes in the way of lawn mowing, tree trimming and removal, brush pile and appliance removal, trash and debris removal and many other tasks. Simply fill out the form and return it to the Rolla Police Department by Friday, Sept. 10, 2010. Assessment teams will then gather the forms then contact you personally to complete a work order for the tasks you are requesting. Then on Friday, Oct. 1, 2010 volunteer teams will ascend on the neighborhood and complete the tasks at no cost to the resident. This date was chosen in conjunction with the City wide clean-up scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 2, 2010. This year’s designated Clean-up neighborhood is the area south of 7th Street to Hwy. 72 and from Holloway Street to Elm Street. The clean-up will take place from 7 a.m. to 12-noon. If you or your agency would like to volunteer in this year’s operation, contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213!

Well, with Labor Day upon us, sadly the summer season is winding down. This weekend families will be hitting the roads destined for picnics, hiking, boating, camping, fishing, visiting family and friends and many other destinations. Please remember to drive friendly and to be safe this weekend in order to return home with only good memories. The area roads and highways will be busy with everyone trying to reach their destinations in the best time. Be sure to plan your route, allow plenty of time in case of congestion or road construction and prepare your vehicle for a safe journey. Be sure brakes and tires are in good shape and remember your cell phone and charger. For many this is the last big hurrah for the summer and most will be taking advantage of the extended weekend. Be safe!

In closing, I would like to take a moment to mention several upcoming events hosted by the Rolla Police Department and various area charities. On Friday, September 17, 2010 at Love’s Truck Stop, Phelps County Sheriff’s Deputies and Rolla Police Officers will be pumping gas and cleaning windshield’s during the 4th annual Gas Up For a Good Cause campaign where all tips and donations benefit the Children’s Miracle Network. Last year deputies and officers raised over $1,000.00 for the cause. So, mark your calendars and let us “fill er up for a reason” on Friday, Sept. 17, 2010. Then on Saturday, October 16, 2010 we will host our 10th annual Law Enforcement Torch Run “Trivia Night” to benefit Special Olympics. Our trivia night has been deemed the best trivia in the area in that in addition to a night of fun and great trivia, we also provide team members with dinner and a offer a cash bar. The event will be held at the Rolla Elk’s Lodge and will begin at 6:00 p.m. If you would like to enter a team, the cost is $100.00 for up to 10 members. Contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213 to reserve a table. We can accommodate up to 33 teams so be sure to reserve your spot.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Summer months filled with activity in Rolla area

I hope everyone is enjoying the cooler weather we have had lately, and taking advantage of the newly expanded ACORN Trail and many parks we are so blessed to have in the Rolla area. Cooler weather, while it lasts, is a welcome invitation to enjoy the great outdoors, and fortunately in Rolla there is an abundance of recreational opportunities to choose from. Beautiful Ber Juan Park, the Ber Juan Tennis Complex, Lions Club Park, Schuman Park, Green Acres Park, Lane Springs, and the 1.3-million-acre Mark Twain National Forest, are just some of the areas you might consider spending some time at outdoors.

This summer, and especially the month of August, has been a very busy one not only from a construction and development standpoint, but also from a planning and meeting perspective. From City Council meetings, and City Council Workshops, to TIF Commission meetings, and a host of other events and happenings, August has been jam-packed with activity and new beginnings that are evident throughout the community.

In case you happened to miss the Annual City Council Budget Workshop held last Wednesday, I’d like to invite the public to attend the upcoming public hearings for the City’s 2010-2011 Annual budget, which will be held during the Sept. 8 and Sept. 20 Rolla City Council meetings at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Rolla City. I’d also like to remind everyone a little early that the Rolla City Council meeting normally scheduled for the first Monday in the month, will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 8. Rolla City Hall will be closed on Monday, Sept. 6 in observation of the Labor Day holiday, and Rolla Municipal Traffic Court will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. In addition, The Centre, Rolla’s Health and Recreation Complex, located at 1200 North Holloway Street, will be closed for the Labor Day Weekend for their annual Preventative Maintenance beginning on Friday, Sept. 3 through Monday, Sept. 6. The Centre will reopen Tuesday morning, Sept. 7. The Environmental Services Department, which will also be closed on Monday, Sept. 6 in observation of the Labor Day holiday, will be picking up Monday’s trash on Tuesday, Sept. 7 and Tuesday’s trash will be picked up on Wednesday, Sept. 8.

Also just around the corner is the TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Public Hearing on Monday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall. The purpose of the Public hearing is to receive input and feedback from the public regarding the proposed redevelopment plan for a new Kohl’s store in Rolla. The location of the proposed store is near the intersection of State Road 63 and Interstate 44 next to Lowe’s, and behind the inline retail shops on State Road 63. If you have any questions regarding this project, please contact the Community Development Department at City Hall at 426-6970.

In closing, I’d like to remind everyone that the distance required to drop off a load of yard compost or yard waste just got a little closer. The composting operation once operated near the Phelps County Transfer Station north of I-44 has been relocated to an area just north of the Rolla Recycling Center at the end of McCutchen Drive. The City’s Environmental Services Department, which operates the Rolla Recycling Center, erected new signs for the compost site, which is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. There is no charge to the general public for disposal of yard waste, however, for-profit businesses are charged a nominal fee for disposal to help off-set some of the costs of providing the facility. Contractors are asked to please stop at the office of the Recycling Center to pay to dispose of their loads of yard waste. I hope this new location will be convenient and a little more accessible to the majority of our citizens, as we continue to strive to improve the quality of our services to you.

Have a great weekend, and enjoy the cooler temperatures.

Police Chief Chat

This past week the Rolla Police Department handled 738 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 31 arrests, 28 accidents, 56 traffic complaints, 93 traffic stops, 11 suspicious nature calls, 7 recovered property reports, 16 loud noise complaints, 31 assists of other agencies, 8 fingerprint requests, 6 mental health calls, 5 prowler calls, 34 animal calls, 9 alarms and 3 trespassing calls. This call total is up 45 calls from last week. Another busy week!

We would like to take this opportunity to welcome our newest volunteer to the Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) program. Jeanne Jenks came on board this past week and has been assisting our Records Division with various assignments. Jeanne come to us after a lengthy career in the medical field. She learned of the program through her husband, Rolla Mayor Bill Jenks. Welcome aboard Jeanne!

Last Sunday, August 22, 2010, Pizza Inn of Rolla played host to a Behind the Badge (BTB) fundraiser where BTB members and Rolla Police officers bussed tables, took orders and served food to family and friends from the Rolla community. Not only was the fundraiser a success, but we had a lot of fun visiting with all of you throughout the evening. Thanks to Bob and Jo Campbell and staff of Pizza Inn for the opportunity, and special thanks to those of you who came out and helped support out cause!

We are gearing up for our 3rd Annual Operation Clean-Up which will be held on Friday, October 1st, in conjunction with the City of Rolla’s Fall Clean-up scheduled for the following Saturday. Operation Clean-up began in 2008 when the Rolla Police Department teamed with the Rolla Area Ministerial Alliance to provide clean-up and beautification services to the residents in parts of the city where the property owners were unable to perform these duties themselves. The operation was designed to enhance the neighborhood’s sense of community and increase property values. The clean-up effort will involve tree trimming, hedge trimming and the removal of brush piles, household items and trash. Also supporting the operation will be Rolla Sanitation, Rolla Municipal Utilities, Rolla Parks and Recreation, Rolla Street Department and CenturyLink. In addition we also rely on hundreds of volunteers from area churches, businesses and the community to complete the operation. This year’s target area will be selected in the next week or so and announced through the local media. If you would like to participate in this year’s Operation Clean-Up contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

This past week, Lt. Doug James began preparations for this year’s Citizen’s Police Academy. The Citizens Police Academy is a program of instruction by police officers for interested citizens as part of the Department’s community policing philosophy. The goals are to increase awareness of the functions of the Police Department and to increase police/community rapport by sharing concerns through an educative process. Classes meet for four hours, once a week for twelve weeks. All sessions are held in the evening, at the Rolla Police Department, with the exception of one Saturday session which is held at the firing range. Participants are also invited to ride along with a police officer to see firsthand what happens on the street. Citizens will learn of Internal Affairs and Polygraph Operation, Complaints and Reports, Criminal and Crime Scene Investigation, School Resource Officer program, Police Explorer Post program, DWI Detection, Narcotics Investigation, Emergency Operations and Community Policing, Animal Control, Defense Tactics, Officer Survival, SWAT Team Operations, Fire Arms Training, Central Communications, Traffic Accident Investigation, Traffic Stops, Radar Detection, Arrest and Booking Procedures and Volunteers in Police Services. If you would like to attend the Citizen’s Police Academy, contact Lt. Doug James at 308-1213.

In closing, I would like to commend several citizens in our community who have initiated or taken part in the introduction of the Neighborhood Watch program in their neighborhoods. In the past couple months we have received a re-newed interest in this valuable program from several different areas of the community. This re-newed interest comes on the heels of 3 city-wide Neighborhood Watch Zone meetings we held earlier in the summer. The Neighborhood Watch program is a citizen-involvement program developed in 1983 to encourage citizens to protect their own neighborhoods by watching out for each other and reporting any suspicious activity to the Police Department. After receiving general guidelines by Rolla Police Officers, Block Captains are responsible for organizing their own meetings and other activities for residents in their neighborhood. We are always looking for new neighborhoods to get involved in the Neighborhood Watch Program. If you would like to learn more about the program or see the program started in your neighborhood, contact S/Sgt. Rick Williams at 308-1213.

Have a great week!

Chief Mark Kearse

Construction activity robust in Rolla area

With the start of Rolla Public Schools and the first day of school for Missouri S&T students this Monday, Aug. 23, the energy, and hustle and bustle of a new school year is in the air. Along with this traditional increase in student activity, is the noticeable construction activity in the Rolla area that is the culmination of many years of planning, strategizing and collaboration. Among the projects currently in progress or scheduled for construction are the new Colton’s Steakhouse and Grill located next to Panera’s on Bishop Highway; the new Missouri S&T Innovation Park office building located on 10th Street; plans for the construction of the Missouri S&T Student Design Center at the corner of 10th and Bishop Avenue; the extensive renovations at Thomas Jefferson Hall on Bishop Highway, the new Kappa Delta Sorority house being constructed at the corner of Pine and Bishop Highway; the construction of two additional Missouri S&T fraternities; modernization and internal renovations at the Wal-Mart Supercenter on Bishop Avenue, and preliminary construction of the new Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant in the northwest area of the Wal-Mart parking lot off Hwy. 63 South.

The Rolla City Council also recently approved a contract for the construction of the new Bryant Drive Extension to Dig It Construction that will pave the way for a new road and gateway entrance to the Missouri S&T Innovation Park. Within the next few weeks the McDonalds restaurant located at Kingshighway and Bryant Drive will be demolished, rebuilt, and modernized which will provide an attractive appearance to this new intersection that will include a new traffic light installed by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). The traffic light currently located at the intersection of Fairgrounds Road and Kingshighway will be removed by MoDOT as well – further encouraging motorists to use the future Kingshighway/Bryant Drive Extension intersection to access Fairgrounds Road and Innovation Park.

In addition, several new multi-family structures are also being built to accommodate the area’s ever-expanding residential market. Rolla is experiencing quite a surge in construction that is getting the attention of other businesses, investors and retailers who recognize the regional strength Rolla has with its strategic location at the intersection of I-44 and Highway 63, the presence of a nationally-ranked engineering and research university, (Missouri S&T), several other well-known colleges and institutes, and outstanding health and medical facilities, and an ever-expanding venue of shopping, dinning and hospitality offerings.

Growing and stimulating the economy continues to be of utmost importance to the Rolla City Council and City staff as we continue to work collaboratively with organizations and agencies such as the Rolla Regional Economic Commission, Rolla Community Development Corporation, Meramec Regional Planning Commission, Missouri S&T, Phelps County Commission, Rolla Downtown Business Association, Rolla Area Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), Missouri Department of Economic Development, and the Missouri Municipal League.

Another important event that will impact the future of our community is the upcoming City Council Budget Workshop scheduled for this Wednesday, Aug. 25 at 5:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Rolla City Hall (901 N. Elm Street). Public hearings to discuss and provide input on the City’s 2010-2011 Annual budget, which officially begins on Oct. 1, will be held during the Sept. 8 and Sept. 20 Rolla City Council meetings at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Rolla City. For more information regarding the City’s upcoming 2010/2011 budget, please contact the City’s Finance Director at (573) 426-6980.

Police Chief Chat

This past week, the Rolla Police Department handled 693 calls for service. Of these calls there were: 29 arrests, 27 stealings, 10 check the well being requests, 31 traffic complaints, 83 traffic stops, 13 suspicious nature calls, 2 open door calls, 5 public relations contacts, 29 assists of other agencies, 42 security checks, 8 telephone harassments and 17 accidents. This call total is down 22 calls from last week, yet another busy week!

On Tuesday, August 17, 2010, the South Central Drug Task Force, Rolla Police Department, Phelps County Sheriff’s Department, and St. James Police Department concluded a short term narcotics investigation in the 700 block of Grover Street in St. James, Missouri. As a result of the investigation, the following people were arrested and incarcerated at the Phelps County Jail: Jahod Thomas age 35, was arrested for possession of heroin with the intent to distribute. Christopher Fowler age 35, was arrested for possession of heroin with the intent to distribute. Sherry Clay age 37, was also arrested for possession of heroin with the intent to distribute along with Tyler Clinton age 26 for possession of heroin. The charges for which Thomas, Fowler, Clay, and Clinton were arrested are merely accusations and are not evidence of guilt. Evidence in support of the charges must be presented before a court of competent jurisdiction whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This past Tuesday was the opening day for the Rolla Public Schools and we are proud to say that with the increased patrols from both my staff, the Patrol Division and our VIPS volunteers and the increased attentiveness and care exercised by motorists in the area, the day went off without a hitch. Please remember to continue to exercise caution at intersections and in and around the schools and be sure to watch for students traveling to and from these areas. Also remember to observe the flashing amber lights and 20 m.p.h. speed limits posted at each school and expect moderate traffic congestion as well. And please pay close attention to our crossing guards. Let’s all work together to have a safe and fun school year.

Also on Tuesday of this week, representatives from the Rolla Police Department, St. James Police Department, University of Missouri S&T Police Department and the Phelps County Sheriff’s Department and members of the Phelps County Emergency Services Board had the opportunity to view a demonstration of a new integrated computer system offered by the Archonix Company, that if purchased, would allow information sharing between each participating agency and provide one common format to simplify reporting and data entry. The program, although expensive would enhance communication and data sharing between the local entities. Department heads in attendance will be looking at the cost effectiveness of implementing this program. Currently each agency relies on their own in-house computer system and all information or data sharing is done so manually through other media resources.

On Wednesday afternoon the Rolla Police Department was honored with a visit from U.S. Representative Jo Ann Emerson who came to the Police Department to learn more about our Volunteers in Police Services (VIPS) program. Congresswoman Emerson learned of the VIPS program through one of her staff members who was present during a Rolla Kiwanis Club meeting where VIPS Director Vince Giacolone provided information on the program. Also in attendance was District Representative Dan Brown, City Administrator John Butz and Rolla City Councilman Stan Spadoni. I had the opportunity to address the group on the VIPS concept and how I envisioned the success of the program here in Rolla. VIPS Director Vince Giacolone then gave a brief overview of the recruitment process, the services provided by VIPS and an introduction of our VIPS volunteers. This was followed by a brief building tour and an opportunity to view one of our VIPS patrol cars. Ms. Emerson was greatly impressed by the program and recommended that the information and concept be offered to more Missouri law enforcement agencies. Special thanks to Representative Dan Brown and City Administrator John Butz and Coucilman Stan Spadoni, who were already familiar with the program and accompanied Ms. Emerson.

On Thursday, August 19, 2010, officers from the Missouri S&T Police Department and the Rolla Police Department conducted a short-term undercover alcohol compliance operation at various businesses within the City of Rolla. During the course of the investigation, officers, with the assistance of two minors, visited twenty-one businesses and attempted to purchase alcoholic beverages. During the operation, 2 of the 21 businesses were found to be in violation of state law by selling an alcoholic beverage to a minor. As a result of the illegal sales, each of the sales clerks, were arrested at the scene and released on summons for “Supplying Liquor to a Minor”, which is a misdemeanor offense. The good news is that only 2 of the 21 businesses involved in the operation were found in violation. The remaining establishments were found to be in compliance with state law.

In closing, I would like to remind you that that Behind the Badge will be holding a fundraiser at the Pizza Inn of Rolla on Sunday, August 22, 2010, from 5-8 p.m. Pizza Inn will donate a percentage of the sales, and some of those proceeds will benefit the Rolla Police Department’s Annual Awards Banquet. Officers and BTB staff will be your servers. Bring the family out for a night of fun and good food. I will be the door greeter so come out and say hello and enjoy a great meal and bring your friends!

Chief Mark Kearse

City partners with Missouri S&T on Baffled Bioreactor project

Known for its cutting-edge technology and innovative approach to problem solving, Missouri University of Science and Technology is partnering with the City of Rolla on a project involving a newly designed Baffled Bioreactor.

You may be asking yourself what exactly is a Baffled Bioreactor, and what is it used for. The new technology was invented by Missouri S&T Professor Dr. Jianmin Wang, who through his local company Frontier Environmental Technology,LLC, has created and patented a very effective mobile sewer treatment system that uses remarkably little power to operate. The Deployable Baffled Bioreactor (DBBR) transforms wastewater into reusable water at a fraction of the energy and maintenance costs of comparable systems thanks to the elimination of external sludge return systems through an innovative, maintenance-free internal sludge return mechanism. The Baffled Bioreactor (BBR) principle improves the conventional activated sludge process by using baffles to create a unique flow pattern within the reactor to retain biomass. The technology will provide low energy use, minimum maintenance, a small footprint, and advanced effluent quality at wastewater treatment plants.

The City was so impressed with the new technology and its potential use in treating wastewater that a proto-type Baffled Bioreactor was installed several months ago at the City’s Southeast Treatment Plant (located off Hwy. 72 South). The system, which also serves as a hands-on demonstration unit, is working very well pulling a load of the inflow, treating it, and releasing it at standards that exceed current discharge requirements established by Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Much of the development funding (over $1 million) for the Baffle Bioreactor came from the Leonard Wood Institute (LWI) due to its potential for use in the military as a mobile and efficient way of treating wastewater. The BBR can be deployed as a single metal shipping container, which offers exceptional mobility, treatment efficiency, and effectiveness. Dr. Wang’s company, together with Barry White, Program Manager of Missouri S&T’s Small Business Technology Development Center (S.B.T.D.C.), is working with the LWI to assist with the proto-types, which is what helped establish the two pilot programs at the City’s Southeast Treatment Plant.

After working together for months with Dr. Wang and Barry White, the City’s Public Works staff, including Steve Hargis, Director, and Alen McNece, Wastewater Superintendent, the City was asked about the feasibility of putting a another pilot program in the Rolla community. These discussions resulted in City staff partnering again with Dr. Wang, Missouri S&T’s Small Business Technology Development Center and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources on an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) “Climate Showcase Communities” grant application. The grant project focuses on environmental stewardship and energy conservation. Due to the great teamwork by Dr. Wang and Tim Canter of Frontier Environmental Technology; Barry White of SBTDC; and Steve Hargis, Allen McNece and Anne McClay with the City’s Public Works Department, the grant application was completed with less than three weeks notice.
The total estimated cost of the project is $643,244 (possible EPA grant of $429,000). The City’s in-kind contribution would be $124,000, which would primarily be in on-site work and follow-up environmental monitoring of the sewer treatment discharge. A small residential area in the community with a lift station would be the proposed site. Aside from an environmentally friendly sewer treatment pilot program, the real value to the City would be the successful launching of this business venture in Rolla.

In closing I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all the students who will be starting school this fall in Rolla. The first day of school for Rolla Public School students is Tuesday, Aug. 17. The first day of school for Missouri S&T students is Monday, Aug. 23. With the influx of thousands of students who use our streets, sidewalks and crosswalks, please use caution while driving in and around the college and school zones. And don’t forget that second annual Bulldog Pride Night will be held on Friday, Aug. 27 at 6 p.m. at Rolla High School prior to the opening Football game of the season for the Bulldogs. Kick-off for the game is 7 p.m.

Kingshighway improvements approved by City Council

The Rolla City Council recently approved an agreement with the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) that will have a far-reaching impact not only on the development of Kingshighway, but possibly the future development of Rolla.

The most immediate impact of the agreement, which was approved by City Ordinance, will result in the relocation of the traffic signal currently at the intersection of Kingshighway and Fairgrounds Road to the future intersection of Kingshighway and Bryant Drive by MoDOT. The new signals, which will be funded by MoDOT at an estimated cost of $161,151, will be installed this year with completion estimated to correspond with the completion of the Bryant Drive extension improvements in December 2010.

Bryant Drive (located next to Pizza Inn and the Sylvan Learning Center), will be extended between the Fairgrounds Auto Dealership and the new McDonald’s Restaurant north to Fairgrounds Road. These improvements will also provide one of the gateway entrances to the new Innovation Park being developed by Missouri S&T.

Also included in the agreement with MoDOT and newly approved ordinance, but slated for 2012, will be improving the Kingshighway Interchange with Interstate 44. These improvements will consist of the installation of two roundabouts, which will greatly improve the capacity and safety of these heavily traveled intersections. The current traffic signals at the Martin Springs Drive intersection will be removed and replaced with a roundabout, and the second roundabout will be located on the north side of the Kingshighway/I-44 overpass. This configuration is commonly referred to as a dog bone design because of the location of the roundabouts at both ends of the highway. Plans also include the eventual stripping by MoDOT of the I-44 overpass at Kingshighway so there will be two east-bound lanes and two west-bound lanes. The estimated cost of these improvements is $1,760,051. The improvements are part of the Statewide Transportation Improvement Plan, which will be funded by MoDOT.

In addition to these improvements, the City of Rolla will be responsible (as MoDOT relinquishes ownership to the City for Kingshighway) for widening Kingshighway from three to five lanes from the Martin Springs Drive/Kingshighway interchange (adjacent to HJ Drive) to the new intersection of Bryant Drive. This will be done during the same time frame in 2012 as the interchange improvements and is estimated to cost $250,000.

These significant improvements to Kingshighway and the new Bryant Drive extension will greatly enhance traffic flow and safety, and create a more welcoming, attractive appearance for visitors coming off I-44. The improvements will also send a message to future developers, investors and businesses/industries that Rolla is a progressive City planning for its future growth and prosperity.

In closing I’d like to say how pleased I was with how quickly and professionally the milling, paving and stripping of 10th Street from Forum Drive to Pine Street was accomplished last week by Rolla Asphalt and the City’s Public Works Department, which oversaw the paving project. In addition to thanking all who were involved in that effort, I would also like to extend my thanks and appreciation to our residents for your patience, cooperation and understanding as this important project was completed. I think we will all appreciate the smooth ride along 10th Street from Pine to Forum in the weeks and months to come.

Please also remember that this weekend is the “Back to School Sales Tax Holiday” that officially began last night at 12:01 a.m. and ends at midnight on Sunday, Aug. 8. The sales tax holiday (City tax savings of 2.5% and State tax savings of 4.225%), is intended to provide tax relief to families with children attending school by exempting the sales tax on clothing, personal computers, certain computer software, and school supplies. The ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament also continues through this weekend at the Ber Juan Sportsplex located off 18th Street in Rolla. More than 2,500 individuals are expected to participate and attend the national tournament. Let’s all extend a warm Rolla welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament.

Public Works Dept. ramps up street paving projects

With over 100 miles of streets in the City of Rolla, maintaining and enhancing all the streets and roadways in the city is a continuous, ongoing effort that is managed by the City’s Public Works and Street Departments.

If you happen to travel 10th Street from Forum Drive to Pine Street on a regular basis, I’m sure you noticed that Rolla Asphalt began milling that section of street on Wednesday in preparation for it to be paved this Monday, Aug. 2 and Tuesday, Aug. 3 – weather permitting. The City realizes how heavily this east/west corridor is traveled, and that the milling and paving is unavoidably causing delays and detours in traffic. While we realize that this project is causing some inconvenience and time delay for our residents, we ask that you please drive with caution while traveling this portion of street, and consider using some of the adjacent streets in the City that detour around this area while construction is underway. If everything goes as scheduled, the project should be completed by this Wednesday, and I think the community will be glad to be traveling a much smoother section of road that has needed attention for some time now.

In addition to the paving of 10th Street from Forum to Pine Street, the Public Works Department will also begin several asphalt sealing projects in the next week or so. This micro surfacing procedure is being provided by Donelson Construction Company of Clever, Missouri. It is a modified quick set surfacing system that will provide an approximate one-quarter-inch-thick pavement resurfacing. Micro surfacing is an economical alternative to hot asphalt mix overlays, which typically applies a minimum of one – and one-half-inches of pavement resurfacing.

Streets (and portions of streets) that are scheduled for this micro surfacing in the coming weeks include: Arkansas Avenue (Bardlsey to Farrar), Allyson Court (Holt to cul de sac); Avon Court (Winchester to cul de sac); Broadway (Forum to Eastwood); Brookside Lane (Sycamore to cul de sac), California Dr. (Forum to McCutchen); Carmel Court (cul de sac to California); Carol Street (Tory to cul de sac); Carriage Lane (Sycamore/Countryside intersection to Ironhorse);Chestnut Drive (Sycamore to McFarland); Cobblestone Drive (Ironhorse to Cul de sac); Cottage Court (Brookside to cul de sac); Countryside Drive (Sycamore/Carriage intersection to cul de sac); Crabapple Court (Hawthorne to 174’ N. of Hawthorne); Crescent Ridge (Countryside to cul de sac); Cronnin Court (cul de sac to 4th); Cypress Drive (79’ N. of Pheasant Hill to Sycamore); Del Mar Court (cul de sac to Forum); Devonshire Lane (Winchester W. intersection to 172’ NE of Winchester E. Int. and Winchester to 172’ NE of Winchester); Eagle Wing (dead end to S. edge of Cypress); Eastwood Drive (315’ W. of Forum W. edge of McCutchen); 5th Street (Holloway to Woodland); 14th Street (Holloway to Farrar and Iowa to Holloway); 4th Street (Holloway to dead end); Great Oaks/Forest Dr. (Woodland S. to Woodland N.); Hauck Drive (10th to Forum); Hawthorne Drive (Woodland to dead end); Heller Street (14th to Missouri); Hillview Dr. (Broadway to McCutchen); Holloway St. (14th to Missouri); Holt Avenue (Tory to 438’ N. of Tory); Homelife Plaza (dead end to Forum); Ironhorse Road (162’ S. of Countryside to S. edge of Countryside); La Jolla Court (cul de sac to Tory Ave.); Leroy Street (14th to Missouri); Malibu Court (cul de sac to California); Martin Street (14th to Missouri); McFarland Drive (Hwy. 72 E. Int. to Hwy. 72 W. Int.); Missouri Avenue (Bardsley to Farrar); Monterrey Court (cul de sac to California); Ozark Street (Southern most end to Missouri); Pershing Drive (Hillview to McCutchen); Pershing Place (Independence to McCutchen); San Fernando Court (Cul de sac to California); Scenic Drive (Truman to Broadway); 6th Street (Holloway to 257’ E. of Holloway); Spencer Street (14th to 18th ); Stratford Lane (Winchester to Devonshire); Sycamore Drive (Countryside/Carriage Int. to N. Curb of Brookside); Sydney Court (McFarland to cul de sac); Tory Avenue (Farrar to Forum Dr.); Truman Avenue (McCutchen to Pershing and Forum to McCutchen); Winchester Drive (Chestnut to Newcastle and Hwy. O to Chestnut); Woodland Drive (Salem to 257’ E. of Holloway); and Woodlawn Court (Forum to cul de sac) and Woodlawn Drive (Forum to McCutchen).

While this work may take several days to complete, streets that are being sealed will remain open with temporary one-lane traffic established. Flagmen will be present to direct traffic, and motorists and pedestrians are urged to remain cautious when traveling through the areas of work. Delays up to 20 minutes should be expected. For more information, please call the Public Works Department at 364-8659.

In closing I’d like to remind everyone that the State “Back to School Sales Tax Holiday” officially begins at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 6, and ends at midnight on Sunday, Aug. 8. The sales tax holiday (City tax savings of 2.5% and State tax savings of 4.225%), is intended to provide tax relief to families with children attending school by exempting the sales tax on clothing, personal computers, certain computer software, and school supplies.

If you like watching fast pitch softball on a national scale, be sure to attend the prestigious ASA Boys 10U-18U and Mens 23U Fast Pitch Softball National Tournament hosted by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department Aug. 4-8 at the Ber Juan Sportsplex in Rolla. More than 2,500 individuals are expected to participate and attend this 5-day national tournament, which will provide some very exciting and entertaining fast pitch softball. I’d like to extend a warm Rolla welcome to all of the players, coaches, and staff (and parents, grandparents, family and friends), who will travel hundreds of miles across the U.S. to participate in the tournament. I’m looking forward to this unique opportunity for the City to host such a high-level sporting event at the Ber Juan Sportsplex.