Willard PD is utilizing NEST: Neighborhood Emphasis on Safe Traffic, a new way to increase visibility and address traffic concerns in our neighborhoods.
📍 From August 17- August 23rd, officers will emphasize patrols in these areas:
• Autumn Brook
• SouthRidge
• Kime
👮♂️ Officers will log focused patrol time and be visible in these locations to encourage safer driving and respond to community concerns.
💬 Want to report a traffic issue in your neighborhood?
Use our new online form at https://www.cityofwillard.org/forms/report-a-traffic-concern — your input helps shape where we NEST next.
#WillardPD #NESTpatrol #TrafficSafety #NeighborhoodFocus #DriveSafeWillard
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over:
Let’s Work Together to End Drunk Driving!
From August 15 through September 1, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be working alongside local law enforcement for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign. The goal is to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragedies seen during previous Labor Day weekends from happening again.
During the 2023 Labor Day holiday (6 p.m. September 1 – 5:59 a.m. September 5), there were 511 traffic crash fatalities nationwide. Of these 511 fatalities, 36% (185) involved a drunk driver. Sixty-eight percent of the impaired drivers killed had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher. Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2023, 45% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.
“We want our community members to understand that it’s our first priority to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead if they know they’ll be out drinking,” said Chief Tom McClain. “The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is an awareness effort to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it kills. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers: Help us protect the community and put an end to this dangerous behavior.”
Drivers should be safe during this Labor Day holiday weekend by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact 911, it does not have to be an emergency.
CONTACT: Chief Thomas McClain, 417-742-5341, Chiefofpolice@cityofwillard.org
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
Let’s Work Together to End Drunk Driving!
From August 15 through September 1, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will be working alongside local law enforcement for the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over high-visibility enforcement campaign. The goal is to deter impaired driving and prevent the tragedies seen during previous Labor Day weekends from happening again.
During the 2023 Labor Day holiday (6 p.m. September 1 – 5:59 a.m. September 5), there were 511 traffic crash fatalities nationwide. Of these 511 fatalities, 36% (185) involved a drunk driver. Sixty-eight percent of the impaired drivers killed had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15 or higher. Among drivers between the ages of 18 and 34 who were killed in crashes over the Labor Day holiday in 2023, 45% of those drivers were drunk, with BACs of .08 or higher.
“We want our community members to understand that it’s our first priority to keep people safe, so we’re asking everyone to plan ahead if they know they’ll be out drinking,” said Chief Tom McClain. “The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign is an awareness effort to get the message out that drunk driving is illegal and it kills. Let’s make this a partnership between law enforcement and drivers: Help us protect the community and put an end to this dangerous behavior.”
Drivers should be safe during this Labor Day holiday weekend by planning ahead if they intend to drink. They shouldn’t wait until after drinking to plan how to get somewhere. Impairment clouds a person’s judgment. Drivers should secure a designated sober driver or call a taxi or rideshare for a sober ride home.
If a driver finds they are unable to drive, they should give their keys to a sober driver so that person can get them home safely. When a friend has been drinking and is considering driving, friends should be proactive — take away the keys and help them get a sober ride home. If anyone spots a drunk driver, contact 911, it does not have to be an emergency.
CONTACT: Chief Thomas McClain, 417-742-5341, Chiefofpolice@cityofwillard.org
For more information on impaired driving, visit www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving.
Help Us Keep Willard Safe: Vehicle Break-In Prevention Tips
We’ve had a couple of reports of vehicle break-ins in Willard this month. While our police have identified a suspect, prevention and community awareness remain key to reducing crime.
Police Chief’s Tips to Reduce Your Risk:
Lock up: Always lock your car doors and close windows, even if you’ll only be away for a short time.
Clear the view: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Remove them or store them out of view.
Be alert: If you see something suspicious, follow the “If you see something, say something” rule and call 911 right away.
For example:
If it’s late at night and you notice a neighbor’s dome light on, spot movement inside the vehicle, or see someone in dark clothing with a backpack walking briskly away....call 911 immediately. Doing so gets a Willard officer heading to a possible trouble spot at the right time, increasing the chance of identifying a person of interest and stopping further crime.
By staying alert and working together, we can reduce thefts and keep Willard the safe, welcoming community we all value.
📞 If you see something, say something — call 911.
We’ve had a couple of reports of vehicle break-ins in Willard this month. While our police have identified a suspect, prevention and community awareness remain key to reducing crime.
Police Chief’s Tips to Reduce Your Risk:
Lock up: Always lock your car doors and close windows, even if you’ll only be away for a short time.
Clear the view: Don’t leave valuables in plain sight. Remove them or store them out of view.
Be alert: If you see something suspicious, follow the “If you see something, say something” rule and call 911 right away.
For example:
If it’s late at night and you notice a neighbor’s dome light on, spot movement inside the vehicle, or see someone in dark clothing with a backpack walking briskly away....call 911 immediately. Doing so gets a Willard officer heading to a possible trouble spot at the right time, increasing the chance of identifying a person of interest and stopping further crime.
By staying alert and working together, we can reduce thefts and keep Willard the safe, welcoming community we all value.
📞 If you see something, say something — call 911.
🚨 New Manager’s Minute Video! 🎥
We’ve just released the latest Manager’s Minute, a quick, focused update to help keep you in the loop on what’s happening around Willard.
This second episode highlights the Jackson Street improvements, including waterline upgrades and downtown connectivity efforts led by our Public Works team. 💧🚧
We’re also asking for your input! Take a quick survey to help us shape the future of downtown Willard:
👉 https://forms.gle/5bMUTpAaDJoS4KcWA
💡 Got an idea for a future topic? Let us know! These videos are designed to be short, accessible, and worth your time.
📲 Watch now: https://youtube.com/shorts/AKelIlxKdZM
#WillardMO #ManagerMinute #CityUpdates #PublicWorks #DowntownWillard
We’ve just released the latest Manager’s Minute, a quick, focused update to help keep you in the loop on what’s happening around Willard.
This second episode highlights the Jackson Street improvements, including waterline upgrades and downtown connectivity efforts led by our Public Works team. 💧🚧
We’re also asking for your input! Take a quick survey to help us shape the future of downtown Willard:
👉 https://forms.gle/5bMUTpAaDJoS4KcWA
💡 Got an idea for a future topic? Let us know! These videos are designed to be short, accessible, and worth your time.
📲 Watch now: https://youtube.com/shorts/AKelIlxKdZM
#WillardMO #ManagerMinute #CityUpdates #PublicWorks #DowntownWillard
YOUR OPINION IS IMPORTANT!
As we plan paths, streets, sidewalk, and parks, we want to know what is important to you.
🚲 Do you or your loved ones bike? Then we especially value your input. 🚲
Take our short survey and take pride in knowing you helped create Willard's future!
https://data-points.typeform.com/to/rUnhrS2V
Help Shape Willard’s Economic Future: Join the Task Force!
The City of Willard is now accepting volunteer applications for appointment to the recently re-established Economic Development Task Force. This advisory group will play a key role in shaping the City’s approach to business attraction, retention, infrastructure readiness, and economic policy.
We are seeking to fill FOUR volunteer positions:
Two (2) residents of the City of Willard, and
Two (2) individuals who either:
-Own, manage, or work for a business located in Willard, or
-Own real property within city limits
The Task Force will meet at least quarterly and will assist with the development, promotion, and implementation of strategies in order to encourage economic development within the City. Members will serve a two-year term and contribute to annual reporting and strategic recommendations submitted to the Board of Alders.
This is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Willard’s economic growth and development. If you’re passionate about the future of our city and ready to contribute your time and ideas, we encourage you to apply.
To apply, please complete an application https://5il.co/3mxgg or submit your interest to clerk@cityofwillard.org.
Applications will be accepted through September 30th, 2025. Appointments will be made by the Mayor with the approval of the Board of Aldermen soon after.
The City of Willard is now accepting volunteer applications for appointment to the recently re-established Economic Development Task Force. This advisory group will play a key role in shaping the City’s approach to business attraction, retention, infrastructure readiness, and economic policy.
We are seeking to fill FOUR volunteer positions:
Two (2) residents of the City of Willard, and
Two (2) individuals who either:
-Own, manage, or work for a business located in Willard, or
-Own real property within city limits
The Task Force will meet at least quarterly and will assist with the development, promotion, and implementation of strategies in order to encourage economic development within the City. Members will serve a two-year term and contribute to annual reporting and strategic recommendations submitted to the Board of Alders.
This is a great opportunity to make a meaningful impact on Willard’s economic growth and development. If you’re passionate about the future of our city and ready to contribute your time and ideas, we encourage you to apply.
To apply, please complete an application https://5il.co/3mxgg or submit your interest to clerk@cityofwillard.org.
Applications will be accepted through September 30th, 2025. Appointments will be made by the Mayor with the approval of the Board of Aldermen soon after.
Willard PD is launching NEST: Neighborhood Emphasis on Safe Traffic, a new way to increase visibility and address traffic concerns in our neighborhoods.
Watch the video explaining the program here: Nest Program Video
📍 From July 22nd-July 28th, officers will emphasize patrols in these areas:
• Stone Ridge
• Hoffman Hills
• Canterbury
👮♂️ Officers will log focused patrol time and be visible in these locations to encourage safer driving and respond to community concerns.
💬 Want to report a traffic issue in your neighborhood?
Use our new online form at https://www.cityofwillard.org/forms/report-a-traffic-concern — your input helps shape where we NEST next.
#WillardPD #NESTpatrol #TrafficSafety #NeighborhoodFocus #DriveSafeWillard
🚧 Road Work in Progress – South Hunt Road 🛠️
Thanks to new equipment purchased this year, our Public Works team is now equipped to tackle more complex road repair projects. Today they’re putting this equipment to good use on South Hunt Road, just down from McDonald’s.
This particular section has been increasingly affected by stormwater runoff, but with the right tools now in hand, our crew is removing and replacing the damaged roadway to improve long-term durability.
We’re committed to continuing smart investments in the equipment and planning needed to enhance efficiency; meaning our team can complete more projects, more effectively, across town.
🧭 With help from IMS (a road measurement company), we’re actively surveying road conditions, building strategic plans, and delivering real improvements to the community around you.
🙌 Thank you for your patience as our crews work to make Willard stronger, smoother, and safer...one road at a time.
#WillardMO #PublicWorks #RoadImprovements #InvestingInWillard #BetterTogether
Thanks to new equipment purchased this year, our Public Works team is now equipped to tackle more complex road repair projects. Today they’re putting this equipment to good use on South Hunt Road, just down from McDonald’s.
This particular section has been increasingly affected by stormwater runoff, but with the right tools now in hand, our crew is removing and replacing the damaged roadway to improve long-term durability.
We’re committed to continuing smart investments in the equipment and planning needed to enhance efficiency; meaning our team can complete more projects, more effectively, across town.
🧭 With help from IMS (a road measurement company), we’re actively surveying road conditions, building strategic plans, and delivering real improvements to the community around you.
🙌 Thank you for your patience as our crews work to make Willard stronger, smoother, and safer...one road at a time.
#WillardMO #PublicWorks #RoadImprovements #InvestingInWillard #BetterTogether
The Water Advisory Board Meeting scheduled for tonight has been postponed.
They will be meeting in the City Chambers on Wednesday, July 23rd at 5:30pm.
They will be meeting in the City Chambers on Wednesday, July 23rd at 5:30pm.
🚫 ATVs, UTVs & Golf Carts on City Streets: What’s Allowed?
We’ve gotten several questions about whether all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), Utility Terrain Vehicle, Side by Sides, recreational off-highway vehicles (UTVs), or golf carts can be driven on City streets. Here’s the quick rundown:
👉 Generally, they are not allowed.
City ordinance prohibits the operation of ATVs and UTVs on public streets except under very limited conditions. And while some Missouri cities allow golf carts with special rules, Willard has not adopted an ordinance permitting golf carts, so they are also not allowed on city streets.
✅ ATVs/UTVs are allowed ONLY if:
• The vehicle is owned and operated by a government entity for official use, or;
• It’s used for agricultural or industrial on-premises purposes during daylight hours, and;
• The operator is within 3 miles of their primary residence (UTVs only, and only if the City has authorized it, which Willard likely has not), and;
• The operator has a special permit issued by the City (Willard seldom issues these).
🚧 If operated legally under an exception, these rules all apply:
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Operate at under 30 mph
• ATVs require a dayglow safety flag (7 ft tall, triangular, 30+ square inches)
• UTVs require headlights, tail lights, seatbelts, and a roll cage
• No careless or impaired driving
• Helmets required for ATV operators under 18
• No passengers on ATVs, unless for ag purposes
⛳️ What about Golf Carts?
Golf carts are not authorized on Willard streets under current City code. Missouri law allows cities to adopt specific rules for them; Willard has not done so. Until such an ordinance is adopted, they remain prohibited from riding on city streets.
⚠️ Bottom line: Unless you're using your ATV, UTV for certain exempted purposes, it's likely not legal to drive it on public streets within Willard city limits.
Our police department is committed to keeping the roads safe, and we appreciate everyone’s help in following these rules.
📜 For this and more, our city code can be found at https://ecode360.com/WI3481
We’ve gotten several questions about whether all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), Utility Terrain Vehicle, Side by Sides, recreational off-highway vehicles (UTVs), or golf carts can be driven on City streets. Here’s the quick rundown:
👉 Generally, they are not allowed.
City ordinance prohibits the operation of ATVs and UTVs on public streets except under very limited conditions. And while some Missouri cities allow golf carts with special rules, Willard has not adopted an ordinance permitting golf carts, so they are also not allowed on city streets.
✅ ATVs/UTVs are allowed ONLY if:
• The vehicle is owned and operated by a government entity for official use, or;
• It’s used for agricultural or industrial on-premises purposes during daylight hours, and;
• The operator is within 3 miles of their primary residence (UTVs only, and only if the City has authorized it, which Willard likely has not), and;
• The operator has a special permit issued by the City (Willard seldom issues these).
🚧 If operated legally under an exception, these rules all apply:
• Must have a valid driver’s license
• Operate at under 30 mph
• ATVs require a dayglow safety flag (7 ft tall, triangular, 30+ square inches)
• UTVs require headlights, tail lights, seatbelts, and a roll cage
• No careless or impaired driving
• Helmets required for ATV operators under 18
• No passengers on ATVs, unless for ag purposes
⛳️ What about Golf Carts?
Golf carts are not authorized on Willard streets under current City code. Missouri law allows cities to adopt specific rules for them; Willard has not done so. Until such an ordinance is adopted, they remain prohibited from riding on city streets.
⚠️ Bottom line: Unless you're using your ATV, UTV for certain exempted purposes, it's likely not legal to drive it on public streets within Willard city limits.
Our police department is committed to keeping the roads safe, and we appreciate everyone’s help in following these rules.
📜 For this and more, our city code can be found at https://ecode360.com/WI3481
🎥 Freedom Fest 2025 Recap Video!
Our PIO Rebecca Hansen spoke with Parks & Rec Director Jason Parks for a quick recap of Freedom Fest 2025. We think you might be surprised by a few of the facts he shares about this year's event!
From setup to turnout to the logistics of pulling off one of Willard’s biggest events of the year, this short interview gives you a glimpse of what went into Freedom Fest 2025.
📲 Watch the recap video here: https://www.youtube.com/embed/KRM12NCscMs
Our PIO Rebecca Hansen spoke with Parks & Rec Director Jason Parks for a quick recap of Freedom Fest 2025. We think you might be surprised by a few of the facts he shares about this year's event!
From setup to turnout to the logistics of pulling off one of Willard’s biggest events of the year, this short interview gives you a glimpse of what went into Freedom Fest 2025.
📲 Watch the recap video here: https://www.youtube.com/embed/KRM12NCscMs
💧 The Hunt Continues... 💧
Public Works is still hard at work tightening up our sewer system, and the latest discovery? A hole on Arrowhead Road big enough to fit a coffee maker and a few random household items. (Not that we recommend storing things there.)
Don't worry nothing leaked out of the hole! Crews are actively repairing this infiltration point, but the search doesn’t stop there. The City is committed to reducing I&I (inflow and infiltration), and we need your help too.
🛠️ Here's how you can do your part:
Have a plumber check your lateral lines for cracks or breaks.
Disconnect sump pumps and downspouts from the sewer system.
Report unusual wet spots or soggy areas near sewer lines.
Every little fix helps protect our system, reduce treatment costs, and keep things flowing right.💪
#DoYourPartWillard #PublicWorksInAction
As we celebrate Independence Day 2025, please keep safety first when setting off residential fireworks:
Fireworks are permitted from 12pm on July 4th until 12:30am on July 5th.
Consumer fireworks (1.4G and smaller) are allowed inside the city limits of Willard.
Supervision is required for those under 17 years old.
Complaints about hazardous activities or violations may lead to seizure of fireworks or prosecution.
Did you know that violations can result in fines of up to $500 and jail terms up to 90 days?
Fireworks are permitted from 12pm on July 4th until 12:30am on July 5th.
Consumer fireworks (1.4G and smaller) are allowed inside the city limits of Willard.
Supervision is required for those under 17 years old.
Complaints about hazardous activities or violations may lead to seizure of fireworks or prosecution.
Did you know that violations can result in fines of up to $500 and jail terms up to 90 days?
For those interested in city finances, or just looking for some bedtime reading, our 2024 Independent Audit, May 2025 Budget Scorecard, and May 2025 Financial Report are all now available.
You can find these items and more in our Transparency section located at https://www.cityofwillard.org/o/cw/page/transparency, or via the transparency button on our city website's homepage.
Our next focus will be working on Parks and Recreation reporting to support ongoing discussions in that area.
Fireworks aren't always fun for everyone. Some animals, children, combat veterans, and others might appreciate time to prepare for "bombs busting in air". Our City Code provides that time by limiting fireworks to the time between 12pm on July 4th until half an hour after midnight.
Let's celebrate together, Willard! And we'll continue to work together to be good neighbors!
(Please remember that consumer fireworks should NOT be ignited over Freedom Fest weekend. Come enjoy the city fireworks show instead!)
🚨 New! Manager’s Minute Video 🎥
We’re trying something new! Short, 60-second updates to help keep you in the loop on what’s happening around Willard. Our first “Manager’s Minute” highlights a recent sewer system improvement by Public Works that’s saving the community money. 💧💰
Got an idea for a future topic? Let us know! These videos are designed to be quick, focused, and accessible; because we know your time is valuable.
📲 Watch the first video here: https://youtube.com/shorts/6kbwvggeHWk
#WillardMO #ManagerMinute #CityUpdates #PublicWorksWin
Willard city offices will be closed on Thursday, June 19th, in observance of the Juneteenth federal holiday.
PUBLIC NOTICE:
UPDATE: The Public Hearing for the Mixed Use Subdivision has been Cancelled for both Planning and Zoning on July 1, 2025 and the Board of Alder's on July 14, 2025.
Notice is hereby given that the Willard Planning and Zoning Commission shall meet on July 1, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. and the Willard Board of Aldermen shall meet on July 14, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. to conduct a public hearing to consider the rezoning request for The City of Willard parcel of property from R-1 Single-Family Residential District to MU Mixed Use. These 2 parcels are located at approximately 122 N State Highway Z and 111 N Main, further identified by Greene County Assessor as Parcels #0723401049 & #0726102001.
The Commissions will take public comments at this meeting. If you are unable to attend the meetings, you are welcome to send any comments in support of, in opposition to, or general inquiries regarding this request for the proposed zone change to Mike Ruesch, Director of Planning and Development at: City of Willard P.O. Box 187 Willard, MO 65781 (417) 742-5310, planning@cityofwillard.org.
If you have special needs, which require accommodation, please notify City personnel at City Hall. Accommodations will be made for your needs. Representatives of the news media may obtain copies of this notice by contacting the City Clerk at (417) 742-5302.
💧 Willard Water Advisory Board – First Meeting Recap 💧
The newly formed Water Advisory Board held its first meeting last night ; and it was a great one! Members asked thoughtful questions and officially appointed their leadership team, selecting a Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary.
The next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16 at 5:30 PM at Willard City Hall. Meetings are open to the public, and all are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Topics selected for discussion at the next meeting include:
• An update on the water towers and upcoming maintenance planning
• Clarification on utility bill deposits
• A broad overview of the system, including equipment challenges and priorities
• A high-level look at funding and planning options for the future of Willard’s utility services
We’re excited about the work ahead and grateful for this group’s service to the community!
Independence Day is coming up! Celebrate and stay safe!
