St. Francois County Leaders Outline Progress and Plans at State of the County

Local leaders gathered to discuss economic development, infrastructure, public services, and community growth across the county.

Feb. 21, 2026 at 12:00am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Local leaders in St. Francois County, Missouri gathered at Mineral Area College for the annual State of the County address, highlighting accomplishments from 2025 and outlining priorities and goals for 2026. Speakers included the presidents of the county's municipalities as well as the Presiding Commissioner, discussing topics such as economic development, infrastructure, public services, and community growth.

Why it matters

The State of the County event provides an important opportunity for residents and stakeholders to hear directly from local leaders about the progress and future plans for the region. As a largely rural county, St. Francois faces unique challenges and opportunities that require collaboration between county and municipal governments.

The details

During the State of the County address, speakers discussed a range of topics impacting the region, including efforts to attract new businesses and jobs, infrastructure improvements like road and bridge repairs, expansions of public services like law enforcement and emergency response, and plans for future residential and commercial development. The event highlighted the importance of cooperation between local governments in addressing the county's needs.

  • The St. Francois County State of the County address was held on Friday, February 21, 2026.
  • The event reviewed accomplishments from 2025 and outlined priorities and goals for 2026.

The players

Dr. Joe Gilgour

President of Mineral Area College, which hosted the State of the County event.

Harold Gallaher

Presiding Commissioner of St. Francois County.

Seth Radford

Mayor of the City of Bismarck.

Eric Schonhardt

Mayor of the City of Bonne Terre.

Pete Pasternak

Mayor of the City of Desloge.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The State of the County event provides an important opportunity for residents and stakeholders to hear directly from local leaders about the progress and future plans for the region.”

— Harold Gallaher, Presiding Commissioner, St. Francois County

The takeaway

The State of the County address highlighted the collaborative efforts between county and municipal governments in St. Francois to address the region's economic, infrastructure, and community development needs. By working together, local leaders are positioning the county for continued growth and progress in the years ahead.