Lead pipe survey underway in St. Joseph as Missouri American Water prepares replacements

Contractors working on behalf of Missouri American Water are canvassing neighborhoods in St. Joseph to identify water service lines made of lead, the first step in a citywide replacement effort.

The work is part of a federal initiative requiring water utilities across the country to inspect, verify and document the materials used in customer service lines.

Although the federal government is not mandating that utilities replace lead service pipes, Missouri American Water has pledged to voluntarily remove all lead lines in its St. Joseph service area by 2030.



The company says it will notify residents ahead of any work that may temporarily affect water service. Officials encourage residents to reach out with questions about inspections, timelines or replacement procedures.

Shining Star program seeks donors for children in need

While many children eagerly await Christmas morning, others are simply hoping someone will think of them. Catholic Charities’ Shining Star program in St. Joseph and Kansas City is calling on the community to help brighten the holidays for local families in need.

The program, which partners with area donors each year to provide Christmas gifts for children, reports that about 430 local children are in need of assistance this season.

Those interested in sponsoring a child can visit the Shining Star website to view children’s gift wishes and select the ones they want to support. Donors are asked to purchase new, unwrapped gifts and return them by the deadline.

Unwrapped gifts must be delivered no later than 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 10.

Northwest Foundation appoints four to its Board of Directors

The Northwest Foundation has appointed four new members to its board of directors, adding a range of professional experience and longstanding ties to Northwest Missouri State University.

The new board members — Mike Baumgartner, Bill Burns, Christian Murphy and Margee Shewmaker Shaffer — joined the board in July, the Foundation announced.

Sunshine Bark Park opens for public use in Maryville

Maryville’s first-ever dog park is now open to the public, offering residents a new space for their pets to run and socialize.

The Sunshine Bark Park, located off Halsey Street on the city’s east side, features a fenced-in area where dogs can roam freely. The initial phase of the project also includes new sidewalks, an asphalt driveway and landscaping improvements throughout the site.

Additional amenities — including dog water fountains, lighting and a washing station — are expected to be installed once weather conditions allow.