🌩️ STORM SPOTTER CLASS 🌩️
The Carthage Fire Department will host a Storm Spotter Class instructed by the National Weather Service on Thursday, March 26, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Carthage Fire Station #2 (3000 S. Main St.).
This free, public training will teach participants how to:
✅ Identify severe weather
✅ Report storms safely and accurately
✅ Help keep the community prepared during storm season
This class is great for weather enthusiasts, community volunteers, first responders, and anyone wanting to be better prepared for severe weather.
⚠️ Space is limited. Advance registration is required to ensure adequate room and accommodations.
👉 Register online here: https://www.carthagemo.gov/forms/27437
Help support public safety and learn how trained storm spotters make a difference in our community!
All operations will resume on Tuesday, February 17.
Beginning Monday, February 9th, Mears will be working on River Street between Fairview and Highland.
The road will remain open, but one lane will be closed in the work zone. Please use caution when traveling through the area and watch for workers and equipment.
Thank you for your patience and helping keep everyone safe!
Update: As of Monday, February 9, 2026, the stoplight is fully operational.
The stoplight located at S. Garrison and Fir Road is currently operating under MoDOT standards in flashing red mode for a total of 14 days, beginning January 22, before it becomes fully operational.
Please note this process is managed by MoDOT. We appreciate your patience, as we understand this may be frustrating in the days ahead.
The mobile app allows users to quickly access updates and resources from across City Hall, including events, meeting notices, department information, and commonly requested documents.
App features include:
City department listings and contact information
Community events and announcements
Public meetings, agendas, and minutes
Direct access to city services and online forms
Push alerts for timely updates and notices
Download the “My Carthage” app today through the App Store or Google Play on your mobile device.
While some wards have multiple candidates filed, voters will cast a vote for one candidate per ward, with the exception of Ward 1, which includes both a 2-year term and a 1-year term on the ballot.
Voters can review the full list of candidates by ward below as they prepare for the upcoming election.
2/2/26 Update: Due to winter weather, this project has been extended into February.
PUBLIC NOTICE: SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION – FAIRVIEW (From River St. to Pearl St.)
The City of Carthage would like to inform residents of upcoming sidewalk construction along Fairview.
Beginning Monday, December 22, crews will begin construction of a new sidewalk on the north side of Fairview Drive, from River Street to Pearl Street. During this time, the work zone will be closed to through traffic.
Update: Dec. 31, 2025- This closure will likely stay in place during the month of January.
Access to residences will remain available, and residents will still be able to enter and exit their homes during construction.
We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as this improvement project moves forward. Crews will be working diligently to complete the project as efficiently and safely as possible.
For questions or concerns regarding the construction, please contact our Public Works Director, Josiah Bayless at 417-237-7010
This album also includes a photo of Chief Hawkins receiving a proclamation from Mayor Bren Flanigan during the December 9th City Council Meeting—another special moment recognizing his 43 years of dedicated service to the City of Carthage.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in honoring his remarkable career.
Week 1 introduced participants to the history of the Carthage Police Department. Attendees learned how the department has evolved over the years and toured the police facility, including the patrol room, investigations offices, and equipment areas.
Week 2 focused on Patrol Operations. Participants learned how officers handle day-to-day calls, conduct traffic stops, and respond to emergencies. They then had the opportunity to perform simulated car stops, experiencing firsthand the communication and safety skills required.
Week 3 covered SWAT operations, where attendees were introduced to the team’s specialized equipment, training, and mission. Participants even got to take part in building-entry tactics, working with officers to practice safe movement and room-clearing techniques.
Week 4 explored DWI investigations. Participants learned how officers identify impaired drivers and were able to practice field sobriety testing, giving them a deeper understanding of the process and its importance for roadway safety.
Week 5 focused on Firearms. With the support of firearms instructors, attendees handled police-issued weapons and had the opportunity to fire at the MSSU indoor firing range, learning about safety, accuracy, and the responsibilities involved in law enforcement firearms training.
Week 6 centered on Use of Force and Defensive Tactics. Participants observed demonstrations of officer defense techniques and learned about the legal and practical considerations involved in use-of-force decisions. Volunteers were even allowed to experience a TASER application, providing a safe but realistic perspective on this tool.
Week 7 highlighted Criminal Investigations, giving participants insight into how detectives develop leads, interview witnesses, collect information, and build cases.
Week 8 wrapped up the program with Crime Scene Investigations. Participants examined evidence collection processes, photography, sketching, and documentation. The evening concluded with a mock crime scene, where attendees applied what they learned to work through a staged investigation.
At the end of the final session, the Carthage Police Department proudly graduated 10 participants from the 2025 academy.
Lt. Eric Miller and the instructors are incredibly grateful for the citizens who dedicated their time to participate in this year’s program. Their engagement, questions, and enthusiasm made this academy a rewarding experience for the staff and officers. Programs like this play an important role in building community trust, strengthening relationships, and promoting transparency in law enforcement.
They would also like to thank everyone who joined —your support means a great deal to the Carthage Police Department, and they look forward to continuing this partnership with their community.
Carthage had the privilege of welcoming a 2 groups of international travel agents today as part of Travel South USA’s “Get Your Kicks: A Missouri Route 66 Road Trip Adventure.” Representatives from the United States, United Kingdom, Sweden, Australia, Italy, Germany, Denmark, France, Brazil, Japan, and the Netherlands made Carthage a featured stop on their Missouri experience.
Their visit included tours of two beloved local landmarks—the historic Boots Court Motel and the one-of-a-kind Red Oak II. Each location offered a vivid look into the nostalgic charm and authentic Route 66 heritage that define our community.
The group shared their admiration for Carthage’s rich history, welcoming atmosphere, and beautifully preserved cultural sites. It was an honor to showcase the places and stories that make America’s Maple Leaf City an unforgettable destination for travelers from around the world.
The Carthage Police Department received a report of a small dog possibly being mistreated. Chief Hawkins advises officers conducted an in-person welfare check to ensure the animal’s safety and well-being.
Officers confirmed that the dog appears healthy, properly cared for, and not in any danger. No signs of mistreatment were found.
The City appreciates the community’s vigilance and encourages residents to continue reporting concerns when they arise. The safety of both our citizens and their animals remains a top priority.
His appointment ensures continued representation for Ward 1 as the Council moves forward with ongoing projects and upcoming initiatives.
The City of Carthage Planning, Zoning and Historic Preservation Commission is currently reviewing materials provided through a recent grant related to our Historic District. The district was originally established in the 1980s and continues to be one of Carthage’s most visited areas, drawing thousands of tourists each year.
To explore our community’s historic charm firsthand, you can view our Historic Walking Tour and Historic Driving Tour guides here:
• Historic Walking Tour: Downtown Walking Tour Guide
• Historic Driving Tour: Historic Homes Driving Tour Guide
Working alongside city staff, the Commission is evaluating the updated guidelines to ensure they best serve our community and support the preservation of Carthage’s remarkable architectural heritage.
This review is extensive and has already prompted meaningful discussion during the first two work sessions. These meetings are open to the public and will continue into the new year. We appreciate the community’s patience and engagement as this important work moves forward.
🌦️ No matter what the weather brings, you can always count on a great time at Memorial Hall, right here in Carthage!
Join our friendly group of Mahjong players every Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. They’re happy to teach newcomers at no charge. Everyone is welcome!
