The O’Fallon Planning and Zoning Commission approved a project on January 2 to build a solar farm on land currently owned by the Lutheran Church Extension in St Louis, with the condition that Mastercard and the contractor, BioStar Renewables, meet with local residents to address concerns. A meeting with the Kingsgate HOA took place on January 21, where residents raised worries about views and property values. However, BioStar Renewables emphasized that the dense tree line along a nearby creek would act as a natural barrier, providing better screening than new plantings. . The site will feature grass turf, fixed solar panels, and improved drainage. Construction is expected to take several years, with completion anticipated around late 2026 or early 2027.
An O’Fallon Woman is facing charges after allegedly filing a false police report that led to an AMBER Alert in November 2024. Yajayra Suleya Molina-Yat claimed she and her two children were abducted during a ride-share trip, but later investigations revealed she was not in danger. After claiming to be held against her will and providing misleading location updates, Molina-Yat and her children were eventually found safe in Corpus Christi, Texas. Further evidence, including videos showing her in no distress during the trip, led to charges for filing a false report and implicating others.
Missouri’s new minimum wage law, which was approved by voters last November and gradually raises the wage to $15 an hour by 2026 with required paid sick leave, is facing opposition from business groups like the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Missouri Restaurant Association. Lawmakers are considering changes, with two bills under review that would exempt workers under 20 or 21 years old, as well as businesses with fewer employees, from the wage increase. Supporters argue the law is needed to ensure workers show up and stay employed, while critics warn it could harm small businesses, particularly grocery stores, and lead to food deserts. The bills could soon advance for a vote in the state House.
A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect from 3:00 AM to 9:00 PM Today, with total snow and sleet accumulations up to 3 inches and ice accumulations around two-tenths of an inch. Slippery road conditions are possible both during the morning and evening commute. Keep your radio on 1021 The River and streaming live on any device at 1021theriver.org for all the latest winter weather information and the latest weather reports every hour.