Data Center Discussion Focuses on DNR Permit Application

Following passage of the data center moratorium by the Nodaway County Commission, discussion focused on the recent Scale Microgrids application of a permit to generate and sell energy to the grid with the Missouri DNR. “Evergy is not getting any tax abatements for their project, so why should White Cloud Generating,” asked Scott Wilson. “We were told these generators would run three hours; now, they are set to run 24 hours a day.”

The data center project south of Maryville is being split into two projects. One is under White Cloud Acres, which would run the data center, and White Cloud Generating, which would run the generator system, which it says would sell electricity to the grid for the purpose of developing enough capacity for the grid to support a data center.

Mike Wilson expressed the concern expressed by many that the recently-passed moratorium would not affect the generator portion of the project, since it is being run by a completely different entity, although they are both under the same developer. The moratorium specifically mentions data centers and not any other entity.

“They know exactly what their plans are,” said Susie Strauch. “We don’t.”

Presiding Commissioner Bill Walker said the next step was to look at the proposed development agreement being drawn up by the county attorney, Travis Elliott. As for an extension of the six-month moratorium, “We’ll see where we’re at,” he said.

The topic of sound came up as well. Commissioner Scott Walk said that the data center company is establishing a baseline of sound so they can measure the sound of the data center. Any sound above the baseline would be sound emitted by the facility. They are doing this during the daytime, when there is a lot of truck traffic, and during the night. The company pledged at its June meeting in one of its flyers to keep the sound of the proposed facility to under 50 decibels.

Other discussion focused on the J-turns that the DOT is putting in all over the state.  They are putting one in near where the proposed data center would  be. In a recent news release on its periodic newsletter, “Express Lane,” the DOT included a piece explaining why it believes J-turns are safer. Commissioner Chris Burns said they have been putting them in all over the state, not just on 71. The participants at Thursday’s meeting were not convinced. “I don’t care if they’re saying it’s safer; it’s not,” said Susie Strauch, citing what she said would be increased truck, tractor, and combine traffic on roads like 71.

 

Scale Microgrids Applies for Power Generator Permit With DNR

Scale Microgrids has applied to the DNR for a permit for a power generation facility at the proposed data center site south of Maryville that would sell up to 600 megawatts of electricity to the local bulk electric system. RTP Environmental, a company based in South Carolina, filed the paperwork with DNR on behalf of Scale. There would be 12 simple-cycle turbines. The company says that the facility will not be a major source under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration regulations because the facility’s maximum annual emissions will be less than 250 tons per year for each pollutant.

All the required paperwork for the proposed project is available online at the Missouri DNR website.

The power generator would be a simple-cycle natural gas-fired electric generating facility. It would interconnect with the Southwest Power Pool transmission system at the Mullin Creek substation via a new high-voltage substation to be constructed as part of the proposed data center.

The project, under White Cloud Generating, would be under a different entity than the data center, which is under White Cloud Acres. The stated purpose is to provide reliable electric service in the area, including the ability of the local electric utility to serve a data center load.

The power generation facility would be located at 340th Street and Jet Road near Barnard, Pumpkin Center, and Maryville.

The components would consist of 12 simple-cycle natural gas fired combustion turbines, each with an evaporative cooler and each with a Hot SCR for NO2 control and an oxidation catalyst for CO and VOC control. There would be 12 electric fuel gas heaters, two emergency diesel engine fire pumps, two 400-gallon diesel fuel tanks, 12 lubricating oil tanks, and two 20,000-gallon aqueous ammonia storage tanks. Natural gas would come from a nearby ANR pipeline.

The diesel engine fire pumps would only be operated during emergency situations and once a week for 30 minutes for testing purposes. Ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel would be used in the emergency diesel engine fire pumps. The electric heaters would be used to prevent the natural gas from condensing.

If White Cloud Generating gets a permit and a notice to proceed, construction of the project would take approximately 12 months.

The combustion turbines are proposed to be operated at baseload up to 8,685 hours per year, or just under 24 hours a day.

The Missouri DNR has primary jurisdiction over air emissions by enforcing its own regulations as well as the EPA regulations.

As part of its permit requirements, White Cloud Generating will be required to do extensive recordkeeping, monitoring, performance tests, notification of both the DNR and EPA, and ensuring that equipment purchased meets DNR and EPA regulations. White Cloud Generating will do maintenance checks on its emergency diesel engine fire pumps for up to 100 hours per year.

The project will be subject to Acid Rain Program Regulations. The Acid Rain Program, according to the EPA website, requires major emission reductions of sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, the primary precursors of acid rain, from the power sector. The program sets a permanent cap on the total amount of Sulfur dioxide which can be emitted by electric generating units in the United States. The final cap was set in 2010 at 8.95 million tons total. White Cloud Generating will submit an Acid Rain Permit Application at least 24 months before the units commence commercial operating.

The projected date to start construction is February 2027, which is after the Nodaway County data center moratorium is set to expire, unless the County Commission extends it. The projected date of operation startup is February 2028.

 

Invasive Lotus Treatment Scheduled at Mozingo Lake

Mozingo Lake Recreation Park will begin treatment of the invasive lotus plant that has spread across much of the north end of the lake. The treatment effort is being conducted by a licensed contractor with assistance from the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and has been reviewed and approved by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

The treatment will take place October 2-3, 2025, and will involve the use of drone spraying. To ensure the effectiveness of this effort, the north side of the lake past the city boat ramp will be closed to disturbance during and after treatment. Treated areas must remain undisturbed for at least three (3) days following application.

Officials emphasize that this process will not impact the water quality supplied by the Maryville Water Treatment Plant. Mozingo Lake Recreation Park appreciates the public’s cooperation and understanding as steps are taken to protect and enhance the long-term health of the lake.

 

Opinion -- Governor Kehoe Signs Two Bills Related to Farming

By Governor Mike Kehoe’s Office

On Monday, Governor Mike Kehoe signed Senate Bills (SB) 79 and 82, reflecting his commitment to protect Missouri's farmers and strengthen rural communities.

“Agriculture and rural communities are the backbone of Missouri,” said Governor Kehoe. “By expanding health care access and protecting our water resources for future generations, these bills ensure that the families who feed, fuel, and clothe this state have the support they need to keep doing what they do best.”

Governor Kehoe signed SB 79 at the Missouri Farm Bureau Headquarters in Jefferson City, where he was joined by rural health advocates, legislators, and members of Missouri agriculture community. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Kurtis Gregory and Representative Brad Pollitt, modifies provisions relating to health care.

—Establishes a regulatory framework for health benefit contracts offered by membership organizations.

—Mandates MO HealthNet coverage of medically necessary cochlear implants and hearing instruments for all eligible participants.

—Ensures patients can access telehealth services using audio-only technology and prevents restrictions that limit care to specific corporate platforms.

—Improves prenatal testing protocols to align with current medical standards and ensure timely care for expectant mothers.

These provisions will improve health outcomes while reducing barriers for families, farmers, and seniors living in rural and remote areas.

SB 82, sponsored by Senator Jamie Burger and Representative Cameron Parker, creates provisions relating to water preservation in the state. The bill signing took place at the Center for Soy Innovation with legislators, conservation leaders, and Missouri farmers in attendance.

—Creates a regulatory framework within the Department of Natural Resources for the exportation of Missouri waters to better monitor, manage, and limit the use of Missouri’s water outside the state.

—Preserves and protects Missouri's water resources for agricultural, commercial, and municipal use.

With agriculture relying heavily on water access, the legislation ensures Missouri is proactive and protective of its long-term water security.

Solid Waste Funding Available

The Northwest Missouri Solid Waste Management District has grant funds available from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Solid Waste Management Program to distribute to both public and private entities throughout Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth Counties. The grant funds are intended to reduce the amount of waste entering the local waste stream and facilitate recycling. Examples of past projects include can crushers, aluminum and cardboard balers, forklifts, recycling trailers, recycling bins, and park benches made of recycled materials. Grant funds have also been used for outdoor classrooms, recycling education, rubberized track, recycling business expansion and structures, and machinery to facilitate composting on a large scale.

The application and guidance document will be available February 1, 2024, at www.nwmorcog.org. Individuals or entities interested in applying for funds for a waste reduction or recycling project may contact Kirk Kopper via phone at 660-582-5121 ext. 4; or via email at solid@nwmorcog.org. Applications will only be received by mail and must be postmarked by Monday, April 1, 2024.

Money Available to Help with Septic Systems

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Financial Assistance Center invites qualified non-profit organizations to apply for funding made available through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF). The Financial Assistance Center is making $2.5 million available to one or more non-profits to assist homeowners in select Missouri watersheds with failing onsite wastewater treatment systems (OWTS), also known as septic systems and single-family lagoons. The funding will help reduce public health and environmental concerns related to untreated or minimally treated sewage and other household water rich in nutrients and bacteria entering Missouri’s watersheds and aquifers. Applications are due by 5 p.m., August 8, 2023. Applicants must submit proposals to the Department’s Financial Assistance Center at fac@dnr.mo.gov. 

To learn more about the CWSRF program, visit the Department’s website here: https://dnr.mo.gov/water/business-industry-other-entities/financial-opportunities/financial-assistance-center/wastewater. 

For questions or comments regarding the RFP, solicitation process, evaluation, or other components of the OWTS grant program please contact the Department’s Financial Assistance Center at 573-751-1192, or fac@dnr.mo.gov.

Solid Waste District Announces FY 2024 Grant Availability

The Northwest Missouri Solid Waste Management District has grant funds available from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources Solid Waste Management Program to distribute to both public and private entities throughout Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway, and Worth Counties. The grant funds are intended to reduce the amount of waste entering the local waste stream and facilitate recycling. Some examples of projects include the purchase of can crushers, recycling trailers, aluminum and cardboard balers, forklifts, recycling bins, composting and other organic recycling projects. Grant funds have also been used for outdoor classrooms, recycling education, rubberized track, and recycling business expansion.

The application will be posted online at www.nwmorcog.org, along with the Grant Evaluation Criteria and Application Guidance by February 1, 2023. Individuals or entities interested in applying for funds for a waste reduction or recycling project may contact Jerri Dearmont via phone at (660) 582-5121 ext. 7; or via email at jerri@nwmorcog.org. Applications must be received by Monday, April 3, 2023, by 3 p.m. at the Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments office located at 114 W. Third Street in Maryville.

Area Water Bodies on Impaired Water List

The following area bodies of water are on the DNR’s proposed Impaired Waters List for 2020:

The East Fork of the Grand River is listed due to e.coli. The Harrison County Lake is listed due to Mercury in fish tissue due to atmospheric pollution. In addition, the DNR newly listed the lake due to Chlorophyll-a in the water.

The Middle Fork is listed due to e.coli. Mozingo Lake, which supplies the City of Maryville, has been listed for 10 years due to Mercury in fish tissue.

New this year is Nodaway Lake, which is on the proposed 2020 list due to Chlorophyll-a.

The Nodaway River is listed due to e.coli. In Harrison County, the North Bethany City Reservoir is listed due to Mercury in fish tissue, and has been since 2010.

In Sheridan, the Platte River is listed due to e. Coli, and has been since 2010. In Harrison County, the Thompson River is listed due to e.coli.

There are an increasing number of waters that are on the list, according to St. Louis Public Radio, which did an article on the waters. However, the DNR says that the reason is that they are testing more water bodies. There are over 115,000 miles of streams in the state.

Governor Parson Signs Bill to Overturn Worth County Health Ordinance

On Friday, Governor Mike Parson signed Senate Bill 391 into law. The bill, championed by Sen. Mike Bernskoetter, Rep. Mike Haffner, and many agriculture organizations, creates  what Governor Parson says is a consistent regulatory framework for producers and encourages investment in our rural communities.

“Senate Bill 391 is a big win for Missouri farmers, ranchers, and agribusinesses,” Governor Parson said. “I applaud Senator Bernskoetter, Representative Haffner, and House and Senate leaders for sending a strong signal that we support the next generation of Missouri agriculture. We’ve now opened the doors that will allow Missouri to lead the way in meeting a growing world food demand and ensure we keep more agriculture production in our state, strengthening Missouri’s number one industry.”

State Representatives Allen Andrews and J. Eggleston and State Senator Dan Hegeman voted for the measure.

The bill overturns the health ordinance of Worth County and 19 other counties. Opponents of the bill said that the measure would reduce local control, allow concentrated animal feeding operations to build facilities, and that the Missouri DNR did not have adequate jurisdiction to regulate such operations.

Proposed Constitutional Amendment Targets DNR

A proposed Constitutional amendment in the Missouri House, HJR 33, would keep the state soil & parks tax, but the Missouri DNR would no longer administer the funds. The bill is being sponsored by State Rep. Robert Ross. If approved in the legislature, the measure would go before the voters in November 2014 or a special election called for that purpose. Instead, the soil & water portion of the tax would be administered by the Missouri Department of Agriculture. Funds for the Missouri Park System would be administered by the Missouri Department of Economic Development. It would not be a new tax; it would simply change the way that the current soil & parks tax is administered.

Over the past four years, the Missouri DNR has come under fire for critics for what they say is mismanagement. In May 2009, the Columbia Daily Tribune reported that the Missouri DNR let a beach by the Lake of the Ozarks remain open for two weeks after it was discovered that there were excessive levels of e coli bacteria present:

 State Park Beach No. 1 was allowed to remain open over a two-week period, including the Memorial Day holiday weekend, despite the discovery of samples showing dangerous levels of E. coli bacteria on May 18 and May 27. The beach was not closed until June 5, based on results collected June 1.

But, as the Tribune article reported, Mark Templeton, the director of the DNR at the time, was not suspended for that until September. The article quoted Senator Brad Lager:

Sen. Brad Lager, R-Savannah and chairman of the Senate committee investigating what happened, said Templeton and the DNR general counsel had tried to block the inquiry. Lager said his attempts to get Nixon’s attention about that issue had been unsuccessful.

“The one fact that we can all agree on is that the public’s trust has been violated and the public’s safety has been put at risk,” Lager said. “I am grateful that the governor has finally decided to join the committee’s efforts in getting to the truth surrounding this willful disregard for public safety, which placed countless Missourians at risk.”

The DNR's handling of a situation at the Bridgeton (MO) landfill also drew heat. The October 30, 2012 St. Louis Post Dispatch reported on "rising underground temperatures" and odor that generated complaints from residents that lived near the inactive Bridgeton Landfill. Temperatures reached as high as 190 degrees and had been ongoing since January 2011. On February 15th, the Post-Dispatch reported that the DNR found that it was not a health threat, a conclusion not bought by people. For instance, a letter to the editor in the February 20th Post-Dispatch stated:

Isn't it strange that the agency cannot monitor the leaking coal ash ponds in Labadie because there is no law, but can voluntarily monitor for odors? If only the coal ash ponds produced an odor. Then DNR could monitor the situation "for the public good." But just doing so because it is the right thing to do is out of the question. Pitiful selective posturing.

Posters in the Post-Dispatch's comment section were no more receptive to DNR's findings, citing the fact that one sample at the site tested positive for excessive levels of Benzene, a chemical known to cause cancer from long-term exposure.

On February 14 of this year, the Riverfront Times reported that human feces have been found in the drinking water at some Missouri state parks. The environmental group Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility has asked for a federal review of drinking water at Missouri state parks, citing what they say is a failure to perform federally mandated testing as well as repeated problems with contamination. The complaint alleges that the DNR discovered a dozen such instances of contamination but failed to take any action.

The PEER alleges that the DNR retaliated against an employee who spoke out against the violations:

The PEER complaint was filed jointly with Patricia Ritchie, who for 19 years was the DNR public notice coordinator for safe drinking water compliance until she was separated from state service late last year. In 2002, Ms. Ritchie initially reported concerns of drinking water safety at Missouri state parks to the State Auditor. That office launched an investigation in 2003 and issued the report in 2004 confirming Ms. Ritchie's concerns. She has challenged her dismissal under the state whistleblower protection law. Her whistleblower case comes before the Administrative Hearing Commission later this month.

America Recycles Day Kick-off for School Recycling Challenge

On November 15, 2012, the School Recycling Challenge will kick-off a recycling competition that will end on Earth Day, April 22, 2013.  Each of the sixteen schools signed up for the School Recycling Challenge will celebrate America Recycles Day at their school by taking the pledge to Recycle More.  Our local schools will continue to focus on recycling through Earth Day at which time the students with the most recycling per capita will win the School Recycling Challenge and receive a recycling collection center and trophy for their school.

America Recycles Day is a nation-wide event sponsored by Keep America Beautiful since 1997 with the single purpose of increasing public awareness about the importance of recycling. Communities and schools across the country will be having events to mark America Recycles Day including recycling collections and pledge collections. If you would like to be part of the event you can go online at americarecyclesday.org and take the pledge.  This is one day to educate and motivate everyone to recycle.  If you cannot get online, Pledge Cards will be available at the Regional Council office at 114 W Third Street, Maryville.  

For more information, please contact Linda Laderoute at (660) 582-5121 or linda@nwmorcog.org. 

The School Recycling Challenge is funded by a grant from the Northwest Missouri Regional Solid Waste Management District and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.

2012 Tire Collections

The Northwest Missouri Regional Council of Governments, along with the Commissioners of Atchison, Gentry and Nodaway counties, announce three Waste Tire Collections to be held in September.  Mark your calendar for the collection in your area:  September 8, in Maryville at the Nodaway County Maintenance Barn, located at 1516 E. Halsey Street; September 15 in Albany at the Gentry County Maintenance Barn, located at 1806 W business HW 136; and September 22, in Phelps City at Entire Recycling, located at 13974 US Hwy 136.  Tires will be accepted from residents of Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth counties.
Photo identification is required.


Tires accepted free of charge within approved limit:
10 passenger tires
$1 for each additional tire

4 semi-truck tires
$5 for each additional tire

2 rear tractor tires
$10 for each additional tire

Rims will be accepted on car and light truck tires only.  The Waste Tire Collections are available for the residents of the five counties only.  Businesses that repair or sell tires are not eligible for the program and are subject to the rules established by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources governing the legal disposal of waste tires.

The collection is being funded by a grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and the Northwest Missouri Regional Solid Waste Management District.   If you need more information, please contact Linda Laderoute at (660) 582-5121 or linda@nwmorcog.org.

Missouri Farm Bureau Opposes Soil Dumping into the Missouri River

At a joint public hearing on June 11, 2012, Missouri Farm Bureau (MFB) President Blake Hurst testified before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) and the Missouri Clean Water Commission (MCWC) concerning the Corps’ request for a water quality permit from the MCWC for modifications to the Jameson Island Chute located within the Big Muddy National Fish and Wildlife Refuge to rectify problems with the chute’s current alignment.

“You have a critical decision to make; your actions will not affect just Jameson Island but also the construction of future chutes in Missouri,” Hurst said. “You are setting a precedent that goes beyond the box you’ve been put in today.”

In 2007, the Corps halted shallow water habitat (SWH) construction to allow for an independent scientific review of sediment management in response to concerns expressed by the MCWC.  The Corps is now seeking to resume SWH restoration efforts in Missouri. 

To correct the current alignment of the Jameson Island Chute, the Corps’ preferred alternative would involve constructing a new 6000-foot chute, excavated to 100 feet wide.  When the project is complete, approximately one million cubic yards of soil will have been pumped, or “integrated through natural river processes,” into the Missouri River bedload.

MFB opposes the dumping, or designed erosion of soil, into the Missouri River by the Corps and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in conjunction with the construction of chutes along the river.  The chutes, or shallow water ditches, are designed to increase habitat for the endangered pallid sturgeon.

“Our organization has serious reservations about the effectiveness of the chutes. There is not a consensus within the scientific community that they enhance the pallid sturgeon population.  This is simply an expensive experiment that contradicts common sense,” Hurst said. “At what point do we ask ourselves if the $4 million cost of this project modification is justified?  Or is the $3 billion cost of the Missouri River Recovery Program so important that every American should contribute $9.50?  The chutes do not stimulate fish nor should we be shouldered with a fish stimulus package.”

In addition to construction costs, Hurst expressed concern with ongoing maintenance costs. “How can we support the construction of new chutes when the Bank Stabilization and Navigation Program is underfunded on an annual basis?  And, can maintenance funds be assured given the uncertainty of the annual federal appropriations process?”

MFB advocates closing the existing chute at the top end and eliminating any further work on the project; however, in the absence of this choice, Hurst urged the MCWC to approve Alternative 3, which ensures the soil is side cast and not pumped into the Missouri River.

MFB led efforts to gather enough signatures to place the Soil and Water tax on the statewide ballot in 1984.  The 1/10 cent sales tax was approved in 1988, 1996 and more than 70 percent of voters supported the measure in 2006. An estimated 148 million tons of soil have been saved since its inception.

On May 22, the Natural Resources Conservation Service issued a press release stating the U.S. Department of Agriculture and its partners plan to invest $32 million in Mississippi River Basin water quality and wetlands projects.   The money, to be spent this year in financial and technical assistance, “will prevent sediment and nutrients from entering waterways, decrease flooding and improve bird and fish habitat.”

“There is a pattern here,’ Hurst said. “Federal and state government, landowners and even taxpayers are taking steps to reduce sediment loadings, while this project will intentionally increase them.  It is impossible to justify adding, or integrating through natural river processes, approximately one million cubic yards of soil to the Missouri River from this project.”

The public comment period on this issue will close on June 30, 2012. Send written comments on the project to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, P.O. Box 176, Jefferson City, Missouri  65102. 

Grand Opening Held for Pool Bathhouse

A grand opening was held Saturday to mark the completion of the Pool Bathhouse project. Present to mark the occasion were Chris Buckland of the DNR, State Representative Mike Thomson, Mayor Debbie Roach, Dick VanVactor, who was instrumental in the construction of the pool and the bathhouse, and pool managers Craig & Gina McNeese.
Around 30-40 children showed up for kids games at both the Pool Park and the Pool. There was free lunch provided.

Free Composting Workshops

Residents of Atchison, Gentry, Holt, Nodaway and Worth counties are invited to join the Northwest Missouri Regional Solid Waste Management District for free composting workshops.  The workshops are designed for anyone interested in learning the basic fundamentals of composting.

As reducing waste entering our landfills becomes more important, individuals are looking for cost effective, easy ways to help the environment.  Composting has become an easy way to reduce waste without spending a lot of money.  The composted product makes excellent mulch for use in gardens and landscaping.  By reusing the organic wastes, individuals are protecting our water, air, land, and energy resources.  There will be a drawing at each workshop for a free composting bin.

The workshops will be taught by the team of Jim Crawford and Tom Fowler from the University of Missouri Extension.  They specialize in natural resource management and have extensive knowledge of composting methods for northwest Missouri.  The workshops are sponsored by the Northwest Missouri Regional Solid Waste Management District and the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.  

Both workshops are scheduled from 9:00 AM—Noon.

June 2, 2012- Oregon, TJ Hall Building, 104 Main Street

Please register by May 31^st

June 9, 2012- Albany, Hundley-Whaley Research Center, 1109 S. Birch Street

Please register by June 7^th

It is FREE to register, just call Linda Laderoute at (660) 582-5121 or email linda@nwmorcog.org.  Registration will close at the end of business on the Thursday before the workshop.  Space is limited.  Don’t wait, call today! 

Brad Lager's Capitol Report -- The 2012 Legislative Session Comes to a Close

The 2012 Legislative Session Comes to a Close

Last week, the Second Regular Session of the 96th General Assembly came to a close.  When the session began in January, we knew it would be a challenging year but we were committed to moving a legislative agenda that would strengthen Missouri’s economic future.  Although the final week of this legislative session was relatively slow, by the time the final gavel fell, we were successful in sending some common sense measures to the Governor’s desk.

The key to rebuilding our economy lays in the hands of Missouri’s private sector job creators.  It is vitally important that our state has a business environment that fosters success and does not stand in the way of economic growth.  In the final days, we were able to fix one of the two major issues plaguing Missouri’s workers compensation system.  This legislation, if signed by the Governor, will protect Missouri’s employees from the unfair co-employee liability litigation that has been occurring across our state.  This legislative fix will close the court created loophole thereby providing Missouri’s employees the same legal protections as employees in most other states.

Since I first entered public service, I have consistently heard horror stories about the permitting   problems within the Department of Natural Resources.  After years of fighting with this bureaucrat heavy organization, we are starting to make progress.  On the final day of session, I was successful in passing legislation that would implement online permitting for many businesses, increase stakeholder involvement in the general permitting process, and increase transparency and communication in many of the more complex permits.  While we still have a long way to go, this is a good first step in reducing the excessive regulatory obstacles often created by this department.

Life during session includes daily battles against special interest and a constant struggle to overcome the out of touch state bureaucracies.  Swapping those out in exchange for more evenings at home with Steph and the kids and days working in the private sector is a welcome change.  I feel fortunate for the opportunity you have given me to work on behalf of our communities and our state as a member of the Missouri State Senate.  Although I may be back at home in the district, I will not stop fighting to make our state government more reasonable, responsible, and accountable to the people it serves.  

As always, please feel free to call, email, or write with your ideas or concerns.  The Capitol number is (573) 751-1415, my email is brad.lager@senate.mo.gov and my mailing address is Room 422, State Capitol Building, Jefferson City, MO 65101.