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City Receives Blue Shield Designation: The City of Lake Ozark and Lake Ozark Police Department are honored to have been named a Missouri Blue Shield City by Missouri Department of Public Safety.Of this designation for our agency and community, Police Chief James Boren says "I'm honored to accept this Blue Shield City designation, which reflects the outstanding work of our Board of Aldermen, city staff, and police department working in partnership. This recognition from Governor Kehoe and the Missouri Department of Public Safety validates what I've observed throughout my 20-year career here—our community's growing commitment to public safety. During my tenure as chief, I've seen firsthand how the dedication of our officers, combined with incredible community support, creates the foundation for this kind of recognition. This achievement belongs to everyone who has contributed to making our city safer."The Missouri Blue Shield Program, created by Governor Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, recognizes local governments that make significant efforts to reduce crime, foster law enforcement collaboration, and build strong community partnerships for public safety. “Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community and state. It affects everything from families feeling secure to businesses having the confidence to invest and grow,” said Governor Kehoe. “We designed the Missouri Blue Shield Program to recognize communities that go above and beyond in creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their futures. A Missouri Blue Shield designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of local governments across Missouri who are leading the way in making public safety a priority.”“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Lake Ozark, that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS). “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety, and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment will be reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals. Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2026. Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program. The City of Lake Ozark earned a Missouri Blue Shield designation due to its exceptional commitment to public safety. Through officer recruitment and retention efforts, introduction of our K9 program, increased funding to public safety, and an enhanced approach to community policing, we have demonstrated a strong and ongoing commitment to protecting our residents and visitors.

TEST TW WEATHER

Posted on , by dan

City Administrator Van Dee to retire after 37 years of public service

After 37 years in public office, Lake Ozark City Administrator Dave Van Dee is retiring from public service.

Van Dee, who has been with Lake Ozark 12 years, announced his resignation and retirement in a letter to the mayor and board of aldermen April 28. His resignation is effective Oct. 29.

“I have enjoyed my tenure in public service and more specifically my time serving as the city administrator for the City of Lake Ozark,” he said in his letter of resignation. “It has been a unique experience.”

Van Dee moved here from Hiawatha, Iowa, where he was city administrator. He also served the Iowa communities of Dyersville and Waterloo having started his career in city government in 1984.

“I have made an effort to develop Lake Ozark organizationally to accommodate the growth I am confident the city will experience in the future,” he added. “I am leaving the city on a path that will provide for growth in utility infrastructure as the city will soon become debt free in both the water and sewer funds.”

Van Dee was also instrumental in starting the city on a path to resolve its need for improved streets, especially Bagnell Dam Blvd. and The Strip. Two significant ballot issues were approved in the last year that ultimately will help finance construction projects.

He lauded the support and vision of the boards of aldermen he has served over the last dozen years as the city has moved from a contentious environment to one that is united for the betterment of Lake Ozark.

“With the assistance of prior and current board members, and current and former city staff, the city now has a solid financial foundation upon which to build while maintaining and growing the community. I am confident the city has a bright future as it has a well-qualified and dedicated group of employees,” he offered. “It has been an honor to serve the city of Lake Ozark.”

If it is the desire of the board of aldermen, Van Dee said he will assist in the transition and in securing someone to fill his position.