Petition for the resignation of Bates County Presiding Commissioner
To view this petition and sign if you agree you can click here!
Monday, March 3, 2025
And the Winner of the Bates County Farm bureau Membership Month has been announced.
The winner of the Bates County Farm Bureau drawing has been announced.
Bates County Farm Bureau offered a drawing for prizes
for those who entered the Membership Month contest in February.
The winners have been announced:
Josh and Katie Wallace won the McBee’s Gift Certificate
Wayne Bolle was the winner of the Hertzog Meat Gift
Certificate.
Congratulations
Northern Commissioner John Gray Releases ARPA Information
Bates County faces a looming fiscal
Bates County faces a looming fiscal concern having to do with
our non-compliance with the ARPA funds we received from the
Federal Treasury. This is nearly a four-year ongoing issue that
has come to light and needs immediate resolution.
Bates County Commission applied for American Rescue Plan
Act (ARPA) funds on May 11, 2021. This is the Coronavirus
State Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) that is managed by the
Treasury of the Federal Government. The application contract,
signed by the Presiding Commissioner, clearly stipulates that
the County will report to the Treasury on an annual basis
where the funds were disbursed. The Presiding Commissioner
has individually maintained full control of the administrative
portal to the SLFRF through the United States Treasury.
A County Detail Account Report for date range of January 2022
through February 18, 2025 shows that the County disbursed
$3,152,674.73 to local entities of Bates County Water
Districts, Cities, Rural and Volunteer Fire Departments,
Community Food Pantries, Fair Board and Ministry Alliances.
Source: Bates County Clerk's Office.
There have been 92 communications from the Treasury, and/or
the Missouri Association of Counties to the Bates County
Commissioners that were either ignored or not responded to
and 30 were not even opened, by any of the commissioners.
Source: County Commissioners Gmail accounts.
First reporting that was due was April 30, 2022 for period
ending March 31, 2022. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $1,555,477.00. This was not
reported, nor responded to by any of our commissioners.
our non-compliance with the ARPA funds we received from the
Federal Treasury. This is nearly a four-year ongoing issue that
has come to light and needs immediate resolution.
Bates County Commission applied for American Rescue Plan
Act (ARPA) funds on May 11, 2021. This is the Coronavirus
State Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) that is managed by the
Treasury of the Federal Government. The application contract,
signed by the Presiding Commissioner, clearly stipulates that
the County will report to the Treasury on an annual basis
where the funds were disbursed. The Presiding Commissioner
has individually maintained full control of the administrative
portal to the SLFRF through the United States Treasury.
A County Detail Account Report for date range of January 2022
through February 18, 2025 shows that the County disbursed
$3,152,674.73 to local entities of Bates County Water
Districts, Cities, Rural and Volunteer Fire Departments,
Community Food Pantries, Fair Board and Ministry Alliances.
Source: Bates County Clerk's Office.
There have been 92 communications from the Treasury, and/or
the Missouri Association of Counties to the Bates County
Commissioners that were either ignored or not responded to
and 30 were not even opened, by any of the commissioners.
Source: County Commissioners Gmail accounts.
First reporting that was due was April 30, 2022 for period
ending March 31, 2022. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $1,555,477.00. This was not
reported, nor responded to by any of our commissioners.
Per an email to all commissioners dated February 10, 2025,
this period is now Administratively closed and the County will
need to repay this amount back.
A regular audit of the County was concluded on December 31,
2022, had a finding concerning the ARPA funds, and finding
that the County did not have adequate internal control over
the program to identify and comply with the requirements of
the contract and warning that costs may be disallowed.
Source: Independent Auditor's Reports and Supplementary
Information, dated December 31, 2022 performed by Daniel
Jones & Associates, Certified Public Accountants.
Second reporting that was due was April 30, 2023 for period
ending March 31, 2023. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $1,535,539.51. This was not
reported, nor responded to by any of our commissioners. Per
an email to all commissioners dated February 10, 2025, this
period is now Administratively closed and the County will need
to repay this amount back.
Third reporting that was due was April 30, 2024 for period
ending March 31, 2024. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $61,658.22. This was not reported,
nor responded to by any of our commissioners as of yet. This
amount, if reported by April 30, 2025, may not require repayment.
The important facts of this concern is that the residents of
Bates County Missouri will be held accountable to repay the
full amount of the 2022 and 2023 closed years which amount
to a total of $3,152,674.73.
this period is now Administratively closed and the County will
need to repay this amount back.
A regular audit of the County was concluded on December 31,
2022, had a finding concerning the ARPA funds, and finding
that the County did not have adequate internal control over
the program to identify and comply with the requirements of
the contract and warning that costs may be disallowed.
Source: Independent Auditor's Reports and Supplementary
Information, dated December 31, 2022 performed by Daniel
Jones & Associates, Certified Public Accountants.
Second reporting that was due was April 30, 2023 for period
ending March 31, 2023. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $1,535,539.51. This was not
reported, nor responded to by any of our commissioners. Per
an email to all commissioners dated February 10, 2025, this
period is now Administratively closed and the County will need
to repay this amount back.
Third reporting that was due was April 30, 2024 for period
ending March 31, 2024. The amount of disbursements for this
period is in the amount of $61,658.22. This was not reported,
nor responded to by any of our commissioners as of yet. This
amount, if reported by April 30, 2025, may not require repayment.
The important facts of this concern is that the residents of
Bates County Missouri will be held accountable to repay the
full amount of the 2022 and 2023 closed years which amount
to a total of $3,152,674.73.
Donations Accepted By The Carpenter's Cup For The Family Of Fatal House Fire
In light of the tragic house fire in Butler on Saturday night, March 1st, 2025, that involved the loss of 2 small children, The Carpenters Cup will be taking donations for the family in a show of community love and support. Needed are men's clothing, size medium to large, women's clothing, size medium to large, also, baby girl clothing, size 18-24 months, diapers size 5 and up, baby wipes, and baby essentials are needed. Food, cash donations, gift cards to Walmart or grocery stores, paid motel nights are also requested. You can take donations to the Carpenter’s Cup, 102 South Bishop, here in Butler.
Fatal House Fire In Butler
On Saturday, March 1st, 2025, at approximately 11:30 p.m.the Bates County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call in reference to an explosion and subsequent house fire in rural Butler, Mo.
Upon
arrival, first responders were met with a fully engulfed home. 5 people were
reported to be residing at the residence. 3 of the 5 occupants were able to
make it out of the house, however 2 children, both age 2, were not able to be
immediately rescued. Fire units arrived on scene and requested assistance from
additional agencies. Rescue efforts were unsuccessful due to the heavy fire in
the residence. Both children were eventually
pronounced deceased by the Bates County Coroner on scene. The three people that were able to make it
out of the house were transported to the hospital for treatment.
The fire is
being investigated by the Bates County Sheriffs Office and the Missouri State
Fire Marshal’s Office.
The
following agencies responded to assist with the efforts: Bates County Sheriffs
Office, Butler Police Department, Adrian Police Department, Missouri State
Highway Patrol, Bates County EMS, Butler Fire Department, Adrian Fire
Department, Rich Hill Fire Department, Bates County Coroner, Missouri State
Fire Marshal’s Office, Central Cass Fire Department and the Bates County Victim
Advocate.
“Our hearts
go out to the families and friends of these children. Please keep them all in your prayers as they
will have a rough road ahead” says
Sheriff Anderson.
Sunday, March 2, 2025
Car dealer with no hidden fees in Butler, MO
Find your next used car or truck at
US Solutions Car Dealership
We offer the most selection of any independent used car dealer in Butler, Missouri with over 30 options to match your budget and lifestyle.
Find your ideal used car or truck at our dealership. We offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly choices to incredible deals on select vehicles.
We currently have cars, trucks and SUVs for sale starting at $3,900!
Transparent Pricing: Unlike our competition in Butler, MO, we are 100% fee free. The price you see is the price you pay. No administration fee and no charge temp tags.
Shop Online: Browse pictures and videos of all our vehicles for sale at your convenience: https://www.forgetfuel.com
Ready to Find Your Next Ride?
Visit us today and experience the difference at US Solutions Car Dealership in Butler, MO! Our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs.
Stop by and see us at the former Lola's Steak house, just past the pantry thrift store, or see our selection online with pictures and video at:
Fatalities in structure fire overnight in Butler Missouri
Fatal fire overnight in Butler, Missouri
900 block of east Pine street in Butler, MO. More details as they become available.
--- Update:
On 03-01-2025 at approximately 2330 hours the Bates County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call in reference to an explosion and subsequent house fire in rural Butler, Mo.
Upon arrival, first responders were met with a fully engulfed home. 5 people were reported to be residing at the residence. 3 of the 5 occupants were able to make it out of the house, however 2 children both age 2 were not able to be immediately rescued. Fire units arrived on scene and requested assistance from additional agencies. Rescue efforts were unsuccessful due to the heavy fire in the residence. Both children were eventually pronounced deceased by the Bates County Coroner on scene.
The fire is being investigated by the Bates County Sheriffs Office and the Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office.
The following agencies responded to assist with the efforts: Bates County Sheriffs Office, Butler Police Department, Adrian Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, Bates County EMS, Butler Fire Department, Adrian Fire Department, Rich Hill Fire Department, Bates County Coroner, Missouri State Fire Marshal’s Office, Central Cass Fire Department and the Bates County Victim Advocate.
Friday, February 28, 2025
Butler Lions Club Radio Auction
Butler Lions Club Members will soon be hitting the streets asking for Lions Club Radio Auction donations.
The merchandise you donate will be put on the auction block starting Monday
night March 31ST .
Here are just a few of the community needs that your
donations have been or are helping with:
The summer reading program at the Butler Public
Library,
Coats for Kids Drive
Eye glasses for those in need,
Project Prom
The Bates County Recovery Court
And the Youth Camp for Foster Children
Your Lions Club Merchandise donations are appreciated
as the Annual Butler Lions Club Radio Auction raise funds for the needs in our
community by the Butler Lions Club Members. A Butler Lions Club Member will be
in your business soon. The dates are now
set for this year’s auction.
Monday, March 31st, April 1st, April 2nd and
April 3rd from 5 until 7 pm nightly, live from the studios of 92.1
Radio Station,
Bates County Missouri Farm bureau Thank a Farmer Week Press Release
Celebrate Agriculture: Thank a Farmer Week
Bates
County, Missouri – Missouri Farm Bureau and county Farm Bureaus throughout the
state are joining forces to celebrate the importance of agriculture from March
2-8 during Celebrate Agriculture: Thank a Farmer Week!
According
to the Missouri Department of Agriculture, “A 2021 study of the economic
contribution of Missouri agriculture and forestry showed that agriculture is a
$93.7 billion industry.” Missouri agriculture employs almost 460,000 people.
The state is ranked in the top 10 for 12 commodities including, number of
farms, goats, beef cattle, poultry, hay, rice and cotton. With all that they
produce, it is remarkable that farm and ranch families account for less than
two percent of the U.S. population. Across the United States, there are two
million farms with 3.4 million farm operators. This number includes owners,
their families, hired workers, tenants and renters or sharecroppers. Many farms
today find multiple generations working together to produce food and fiber.
Recently
at the Missouri Capitol, MO State Representatives Sherri Gallick and Dane Diehl
presented Bates County Farm Bureau members with a resolution for “Thank a
Farmer Week”. The resolution highlighted
the impact that farmers and ranchers have in providing the food, feed, fuel and
fiber that serve consumers in Missouri and around the globe. Other Bates County
Farm Bureau plans for “Thank a Farmer Week” include providing educational tote
bags, filled with an accurate agriculture book and classroom materials, to county
3rd grade teachers. Also
“Thank a Farmer” goodie bags will be distributed to local farmers.
Bates
County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Chair, Mary Fischer, says. “Celebrate
Agriculture: Thank a Farmer Week is a great time to recognize the
contributions made by farmers.
Agriculture is vital to our daily lives and our community. Since 98% percent of the population doesn’t
farm, it is easy to take for granted the importance of our farmers.
Photo Caption:
Recently
at the Missouri Capitol, MO State Representatives Sherri Gallick and Dane Diehl
presented Bates County Farm Bureau members with a resolution for “Thank a
Farmer Week”. The resolution highlighted
the impact that farmers and ranchers have in providing the food, feed, fuel and
fiber that serve consumers in Missouri and around the globe. Pictured are (L to R) Missouri Farm Bureau
District 4 State Board Member, Sharon Arnold; MO State Representative, Sherri
Gallick; Bates County Farm Bureau Promotion and Education Committee Chair, Mary
Fischer; State Representative, Dane Diehl and Bates County Farm Bureau
President, Kevin Fischer.
Thursday, February 27, 2025
Casino Night April 5th
Casino Night hits Butler on Saturday, April 5th. The evening is full of food, fun,
mouse races and the Casino.. and it is all to support the needs of the Children’s
Center that serves child abuse victims and their families. 35 dollars per person .
Tickets at the door, must be 21 to enter. Casino night April 5th – dinner from 5:30
until 7:00 with casino and mouse races from 7 pm until 9 30. Raffle and auction
after the casino closes.
Quilt Show Butler Public Library March 1-8
The Butler Public Library will host an exhibition only Quilt Show the March 1st
through the 8th. Quilt lovers will be invited to display their Masterpieces in the
Community Room of the Butler Public Library. view these quilts between 9:30 and
5:30 March 1st through the 8th. up to 60 Quilts on display. The Show is free to the
public. Make quilt reservations by February 28th Deadline. Contact Melanie Vance
to register your quilt or for more questions.
816-612-7838 that number again 816-612-7838.
City of Butler Wastewater Treatment Position Open
CITY
OF BUTLER
WASTEWATER
TREATMENT PLANT LEAD OPERATOR POSITION AVAILABLE
The
City of Butler is accepting applications for a full-time position in the Public
Works Department for a Wastewater Treatment Plant Lead Operator. We offer
employer paid medical, dental, vision, life insurance and a complete retirement
package with the MO LAGERS system. Successful
candidates must have a high school diploma or GED equivalent, or any equivalent
combination of education and experience and a valid driver’s license with a
Class B CDL endorsement. Also required
is a class A Missouri Wastewater Treatment Certification. Must have the capability to understand and
operate the Butler WWTP within regulatory compliance as required by the
Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Salary is dependent upon qualifications.
Pre-employment and random post-employment drug testing are
required. Applications are available at
Butler City Hall, 22 West Ohio Street, Butler, Missouri 64730, or on our
website at https://www.cityofbutlermo.com. The City of Butler is an equal opportunity
employer. Position is open until filled.
Bates County Soil and Water Conservation District Open House
The Bates County Soil and Water Conservation District Annual Cooperator Open
House will be March 13th from 9 am until 3 pm the event will be held at the USDA
Building at 625 West Nursery Street in Butler. Meet the NRCS and SwCD Staff,
producers and view displays. Award winners will be presented at 12:45 during
refreshments and lunch at noon until 1:00.
Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Neil McLain, age 82 of Butler
A Celebration of Life service for Neil McLain of Butler, Missouri will be 11 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2025 at Schowengerdt Funeral Chapel (660-679-6555) in Butler, Missouri. Visitation prior to services 10 - 11 a.m. Monday at the Schowengerdt Chapel. Inurnment in Oak Hill Cemetery, Butler. In lieu of flowers, contributions to Giving Fore Living. Online condolences www.schowengerdtchapel.com.
Neil McLain, age 82 of Butler, Missouri died Wednesday, February 26, 2025 at the Bates County Memorial Hospital in Butler, Missouri. He was born January 5, 1943 to Paul Delos and Lura Pauline Dunkenson McLain in Inglewood, California.
Neil, one of two boys, lived most of his life in Raymore, Missouri and was a proud graduate of North Harrison R-III School District and an active member of the Jaycees. He moved to Butler, Missouri in 1997 where his commitment to community was evident through his involvement with the Butler Country Club and Ohio Street United Methodist Church. Neil’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly as the owner of Accu-Tech Pest Control from which he retired in 2023. His zest for life was paralleled only by his dedication to his beloved wife and sweetheart in 4th grade, Sharon Rosetta Booth, whom he married on April 4, 1960 and mourned deeply after her passing in 2023. They lived in Vista, California for a short time and Sharon was so homesick that Neil moved her back.
An avid golfer and bird hunter, Neil's happiest moments were spent in the company of family and friends. His social, happy and joyful nature was infectious, and he was well-known for his signature use of initials in his sayings. Neil's legacy is one of unwavering optimism and the enduring power of a life well-lived. Remembered as a beacon of joy and positivity, Neil passed away surrounded by love and cherished memories.
Neil is survived by a son, Richard McLain and wife Lynne of Butler, Missouri; two grandchildren, Lee McLain and wife Emily of Butler, Missouri and Lynnsey Shade and husband Randy of Overland Park, Kansas; four great-grandchildren, Izabella and Scarlett Shade and Magnolia and Maleena McLain; and a brother, Jerry McLain and wife Geraldine of Mt. Ayr, Iowa. He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Sharon McLain on August 5, 2023; and a son, Tracy McLain.
Petition for the resignation of Bates County Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley
Petition for the resignation of Bates County Presiding Commissioner More information on the ARPA funds reporting issue To view this petiti...
