News Headlines & Chapel Report 12/11/25

From the Eagle Valley Bank 24 Hour News Center:

A contentious Silex Board of Aldermen meeting Monday ended with former mayor Stuart Gambrill announcing that a group of residents is exploring a petition effort to disincorporate the city, saying ongoing dysfunction has made Silex a “laughing stock” in surrounding counties. Under Missouri law, dissolving the city would require signatures from 25% of registered voters before going to a public vote. The meeting itself again highlighted divisions among city leaders, with disputes over a sexual misconduct indictment against Alderman PJ Spanier, whether he had previously resigned, and calls from some board members to consider impeachment. Mayor Lynne Luckett also defended her recent 911 call after an argument with the board president, which he disputes and played a recording of during the meeting. Tensions grew further when Luckett said she’d been locked out of city files and offices—an action aldermen said was within the clerk’s authority. She insisted she would regain access, prompting warnings that doing so without approval could constitute breaking and entering.

Pittsfield Police say several attempts were made Wednesday afternoon to pass counterfeit bills at local businesses, and officers are now working to identify the suspects. The department warns residents and merchants to use extra caution when handling cash, noting that at least one fake bill even passed the standard marker test. A photo of one of the counterfeit bills was released as part of the alert.

Griggsville-Perry CUSD #4 Superintendent Bill Capps informed parents and community members that the district’s upcoming truth-in-taxation notice will show a roughly 10.9% increase in tax revenue for next year, though he emphasized this does not mean the district is raising its tax rate. Instead, the increase comes from rising property assessments, while the district’s actual tax rate continues to decline due to a state-mandated cap. Capps noted the district’s estimated tax rate for the next school year is $4.72, down from $5.05 two years ago, and credited careful budgeting and state and federal support for keeping the rate low despite inflation and higher operating costs. He acknowledged challenges ahead but said the district remains committed to maintaining a stable tax rate while meeting student needs.

The Pittsfield Youth Library is hosting a “Barks & Books” event on Thursday, December 11, from 6–7 p.m., inviting children to come read to a therapy dog in a fun, encouraging environment. The program aims to help young readers build confidence while enjoying time with a friendly dog. Families with questions can contact the Youth Library at 217-285-5232.

Today's Chapel Report:

Lewis Russell Ham, 80, of Versailles, Illinois, passed away December 9 at his home. Born April 5, 1945, in Ripley, he was a 1963 Brown County High School graduate known for his track and field achievements before serving in the U.S. Navy from 1965–1969. Lewis worked for Caterpillar in Peoria, Bohn Aluminum in Beardstown, and later retired from A.C. Humke in Jacksonville. Lewis was a member of the Versailles Christian Church, He is survived by his children Suzanne Ray and Joe Ham, a brother, two sisters, four grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Funeral services are Monday, Dec. 15, at 1 p.m. at Hendricker Funeral Home in Mt. Sterling, with burial and military honors in Versailles West Side Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until service time. Memorials are suggested to the cemetery.