Tower Tee News Series

Page 1

Volume 28, Number 22

1 Section, 24 Pages

9977 Lin Ferry Drive St. Louis, MO 63123

Thursday, May 31, 2018

www.callnewspapers.com

New Affton precinct to be located at Sappington and Gravois By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor St. Louis County is under contract to buy land for a new Affton Southwest Precinct at the site of the Sappington

Garden Shop across from Lindbergh Schools’ new Central Office at Sappington and Gravois roads. The St. Louis County Port Authority has already contracted to buy the 7-acre site of Sappington Garden Shop.

It plans to use four acres for the new precinct and sell the rest, county police Chief Jon Belmar told the County Council May 22. (See PRECINCT, Page 9A)

New development brings Fitz’s, The Shack and 110 jobs to a vacant site By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor One of the largest developments south county has seen in years will bring Fitz’s Root Beer and The Shack to a long-vacant site on South Lindbergh Boulevard near Ronnie’s Cinema. Construction is set to start in early July for the “Gathering Square” development,

which could open by the end of the year. The site, at 5228-5240 S. Lindbergh Blvd., will be the second location of Fitz’s, a mainstay of University City’s Delmar Loop, and the sixth location of The Shack breakfast and brunch restaurant. The restaurants signed leases last week to occupy the other side of the same build(See FITZ’S, Page 11A)

‘There’s no saving Tower Tee,’ owner says; golf course set to close in July By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor Despite the wishes of many Affton residents for Tower Tee to stay open and not become a 158-home subdivision, the owner confirmed this month that the golf course will be gone for good in July. Dozens of residents have gone week after week to the County Council to ask that

the treasured green space of the Tower Tee golf course and driving range stay the same as they’ve always known it. But Tower Tee owner Steve Lotz followed suit May 8 to say that Tower Tee is closing July 7 whether or not residents continue to protest. He and his wife, Janice, are retiring to (See TEE, Page 4A)

Sappington fifth-graders ‘fly up’ to Truman

Sappington Elementary School students and teachers lined the halls last week clapping and giving high fives to all the fifth-graders in the Lindbergh Class of 2025. The “clap out” ended with ice cream, photos and lots of memory book signatures. To see our annual Grad Salute, visit Page 12A.

Crestwood rejects Sunset Hills bike ride an annual event celebrating the neighboring municipalities. But Crestwood is citing safety concerns in backing out from a Route 66-themed moonlight bike ride Sunset Hills was spearheading on Watson Road to highlight the history of the famous highway and bring in tourism the night before the

Pat Fribis

By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor As the Special School District approved its budget last week for next year, its teachers picketed outside. SSD teachers and support staff say they feel unappreciated and underpaid as the SSD Board of Education unanimously approved the $460 million 2018-2019 budget, which heads to the district’s Governing Council for final approval next week. The budget has a

(See SSD, Page 7A)

(See BIKE, Page 5A)

iPoll Share your opinion at callnewspapers.com

TIME-DATED MATERIAL

POSTAL CUSTOMER

*****ECRWSS EDDM*****

Call Publishing 9977 Lin Ferry Drive St. Louis, Mo. 63123

READER

Presorted Standard EDDM U.S. Postage PAID Louisiana, MO 63353 Permit No. 11

By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor What seemed to be a thriving partnership between Sunset Hills and Crestwood could hit the skids over a night bicycle ride similar to the Moonlight Ramble that the cities were set to host in connection with their joint festival SunCrest Fest. At the initiative of Sunset Hills Mayor Pat Fribis, the cities will host SunCrest Fest Sept. 22 at Kitun Park next to Truman Middle School, the school that spans both cities. The festival is intended to become

SSD teachers picket as district approves 2018 budget, raises

Last week’s question: Do you believe you will benefit from the new tax reform law enacted by the Missouri Legislature? This week’s question: Do you support a new 158-home subdivision at the site of Tower Tee golf course? Visit www.callnewspapers.com to share your opinion.

Inside the Call

Web exclusive

School news................ Affton News................ Crestwood News......... Opinions...................... Obituaries.................... Entertainment.............. Grad Salute.................. Nuptials....................... Sports........................... Classifieds....................

A resolution adopted by lawmakers charges the House committee that is investigating the governor with recommending disciplinary action for Gov. Eric Greitens ranging from censure to introducing articles of impeachment. To read this article, visit www. callnewspapers.com.

Page 2A Page 4A Page 5A Page 6A Page 8A Page 10A Page 12A Page 15A Page 16A Turn to Page 12A for our annual Grad Salute honorPage 17A ing the graduates from all south county high schools.


E OF (S)

Page 4A - Call Publishing, Thursday, May 31, 2018

Call Publishing, Thursday, May 31, 2018 - Page 4A

• Tee

Tower Tee, a beloved south county institution that Lotz said seems to hold as fond a place in some St. Louisans’ minds as the St. Louis Zoo or Ted Drewes, has been operated by Lotz’s family since the 1960s as a driving range, golf course and batting cages. The Lotz family always leased the property from KSDK. Tegna terminated the lease last fall and told Lotz it would not be renewed. But despite KSDK’s announcement it would not renew Tower Tee’s lease, Affton residents have been attending nearly every council meeting to ask that the council not approve a subdivision at the site. “I’ve been touched, even tonight, by the outpouring of affection and nostalgia for Tower Tee,” Lotz told them. But he would never be able to purchase the land at fair market value, despite attempts last fall to potentially compete with McBride’s offer. Without his own business operating there, Lotz said he supports houses at Tower Tee. “I saw a sign that says, ‘Keep Affton Family Friendly,’” Lotz said. “Affton needs young families. The aging population of Affton is not bringing in new families, and I strongly believe to keep Affton family friendly, we need to bring in young families to purchase these new homes. I think of the 150 or so families who will be moving into the Arbors at Tower Tee. I hope they will receive the same friendly welcome my dad and grandpa got when they built Tower Tee in Affton 55 years ago. To those who live in Affton I would say, be thankful that you live in a community where others want to live.” Except for in the morning when everyone goes to work, Lotz said traffic will not be as heavy from the houses as it is from Tower Tee on a daily basis. And while he paid Tegna $15,000 a year for Tower Tee’s share of real-estate taxes, McBride estimated that $500,000 a year would go to the school district with the new houses. But even if the end of Tower Tee is near, the McBride Berra subdivision would still need to gain zoning approval from the county. The developer has donated money to

Golf course will close after 55 years; McBride Berra hopes for 158 houses (Continued from Page 1A)

Florida, or as he told the Call, “I’m finished, my lovely bride and I will be moving south and we’re just ready to pack it in. I’m a business man, and I get the fact that (owner) Tegna is entitled to sell the property, that’s just the way the world goes around. I’ve had a good run, I’ve always respected my dad’s founding of Tower Tee and I think he had a good vision.” He told the council, “I want to be clear, there’s no saving Tower Tee. Tower Tee is closing its doors. I have no desire to keep it going. I will miss Tower Tee. I will miss the guests, but I’m moving on. For me and Janice, Tower Tee is over.” Through June 30, children can practice free at the course during certain hours. After the golf course sees its last teeoff July 7, a concert featuring the Joe Dirt Band and That ’80s Band will take place from 1 to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 8. After an auction the next day, most of the equipment will be packed up and gone by July 15. The new subdivision, potentially called “Arbors at Tower Tee,” is proposed by McBride Berra Land Co., a collaboration of homebuilder McBride & Son and Oakville-based developer J.H. Berra. The two companies previously built the Grant’s View subdivision across from Grant’s Farm, also in Affton. The developer had applied for rezoning at the county Planning Commission last fall, but yanked the project after an outcry. McBride later announced it would delay the rezoning until after Tower Tee closes. The 27-acre Tower Tee property, 6727 Heege Road, is owned by Tegna, the parent company of the KSDK Channel 5 television station, but is under contract to McBride Berra pending rezoning. The property was listed for sale at more than $4 million, which Tegna promises to donate to charities nationwide.

Joe knows BBQ!

$5.00

OFF

Kenrick’s

any purchase of $40 or more

4324 Weber Rd., St. Louis, MO

314-631-2440

Meats & Catering

www.kenricks.com One coupon per customer per visit. Expires 6/28/18.

$5

OFF

many members of the council. For months, a parade of different Affton citizens nearly every week has asked the council to stand against the subdivision due to traffic, drainage, potential overcrowding in the Affton School District and a desire to keep green space and Tower Tee. Affton resident Michael Burton has even launched a council campaign against the legislator who represents Tower Tee, 5th District Councilman Pat Dolan, D-Richmond Heights. The political newcomer has made Tower Tee the cornerstone of his campaign. He has alleged that Dolan’s assistant once said that the office’s feedback on any subdivision at Tower Tee was 50-50 for and against, which seems unlikely given the consistent opposition Affton residents have shown at public meetings. But Dolan said that his assistant just meant to convey that they get calls for and against issues all the time. “He wasn’t judging so much this issue,” Dolan said. “Just in general we get a lot of calls, we get ‘em on both sides…. So you do have more people against it than people for it. I acknowledge that.” Since last year, Dolan has repeatedly told citizens who come to the council asking for answers on Tower Tee that McBride does not have any proposal pending at the county, and no decision could be made until the company files its zoning application. “When the process goes through the process, we’ll deal with it at the time,” Dolan said. Even children have gone to the council to address Dolan. “Please don’t close Tower Tee,” said Jacob Guth. “I don’t want houses there, and I use batting cages. Please don’t close, Mr. Dolan.” His sister Gweneth Guth said, “I go to Mesnier Primary School. Please don’t close Tower Tee.” “They attend the public school that McBride wants to overcrowd,” their mother Stephanie Guth said. To read more, visit www.callnewspapers.com.

2.52 APY* %

ON 59-MONTH CD & IRA AT JEFFERSON BANK & TRUST

For a limited time, take advantage of these high yields available for retail Certificates of Deposit. These rates available only at Jefferson Bank & Trust. Minimum deposit $1000. Penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal.

Food Purchase of $25 or More Hessler’s Pub and Grill

CD & IRA 59-MONTH 38-MONTH 19-MONTH 15-MONTH 13-MONTH

Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or happy hour pricing. Expires 6/30/18. Call Newspapers.

Buy any Burger with Fries & Receive a Second Burger with Fries

HALF OFF

APY* 2.52% 2.27% 2.02% 1.76% 1.66%

Hessler’s Pub and Grill

Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or happy hour pricing. Expires 6/30/18. Call Newspapers.

HAPPY HOUR

Daily Lunch Specials

$6.99

3-6pm Mon-Fri All Day Sunday

11804 Tesson Ferry Road

Tesson Ferry at Baptist Church Road

$4

OFF

Any 14 Inch Pizzas with One or More Toppings Hessler’s Pub and Grill

Dine-in only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or happy hour pricing. Expires 6/30/18. Call Newspapers.

ST. LOUIS 2301 Market Street St. Louis, MO 63103 314.621.0100

JOIN US FOR ALL THE GAMES!

314.842.4050

5/31/18

ARTIST/ DATE DONE: Proof 1: TK 5/23/18

EUREKA 100 Legends Parkway Eureka, MO 63025 636.938.4922

SOUTH COUNTY 5475 Southfield Center Concord Village, MO 63123 314.843.5900

O’FALLON 4190 Highway K O’Fallon, MO 63368 636.300.0100

*Annual Percentage Yield current as of 05/03/2018

hesslerspubandgrill.com

ISSUE RUN DATE:

CREVE COEUR 12501 Olive Blvd. Creve Coeur, MO 63141 314.576.5505

PROOF RECEIVED BY:

FINAL PROOF APPROVED BY/ DATE:


ZE OF AD(S)

V

Page 2A - Call Publishing, Thursday, May 31, 2018

326 East Courtois St. St. Louis, MO 63111

School news

314-638-9940

www.lemayblock.com

Ask About DISCOUNT BLOCK Stop and visit our extensive indoor showroom!

Affton students participate in a Day of Service

THE KITCHEN

JB Blast Celebration set to take off July 3

We can help you create your own outdoor living space!

CHISELED PILLAR CAPS

The 2018 JB Blast will take place this year at dusk on Tuesday, July 3, at Jefferson Barracks Park, 345 North Road. Admission is free. The event will kick off with County Executive Steve Stenger singing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at 7 p.m. Stenger sponsors the celebration, as he once did as the 6th District councilman.

$65 ea.

•Ready Mix Concrete •Saturdays Seasonal •Deliveries Available •Fireplace & Fire Ring Kits •Air Conditioning Slabs •2’ x 6’ Concrete Bin Block

•Retaining Walls •Masonry Block •Pavers •Curbs

Firepit $435

with 10% Off Coupon

BAR KITS from $950

With 10% Off Coupon!

PARKING CURB BLOCKS: 72” and 84”

FIREPLACE KITS starting at $2,900 With 10% Off Coupon!

READY MIX CONCRETE: Year round/weekday ready mix deliveries. Exposed aggregates and colored concrete deliveries are always available.

ISSUE RUN DATE: 5/31/18

The JB Blast also will feature music under the stars from The South Side Johnny Band. Concessions will be for sale and food trucks will be on site. The grand finale is, of course, the fireworks display to celebrate our nation’s birth. The fireworks will light up the sky after dark, roughly around 9 or 9:30 p.m.

Tower Tee owner has no ill will for Tegna

By GLORIA LLOYD, News Editor At first, Tower Tee owner Steve Lotz wanted to fight a proposed subdivision at the golf course his family leased for five decades. But when his attorney looked at the language of his contract, there was no way out, Lotz said. Even with the help of business interests, he couldn’t match McBride Berra’s competing offer to owner Tegna. “I know their bid and I know my bid, and I know their bid was 2.5 times what my bid was,” he said. “So I lose. And I made

VINTAGE 6

10% OFF

The Affton School District held its second annual #afftonstrong Community Day of Service this month, where each of the district’s students and staff members served the community for at least one hour. “Together, we are making Affton stronger and helping our students develop as responsible citizens ready to make a difference in our schools, our community and our world,” the district said. Above, officers from the St. Louis County Police Department and firefighters with the Affton Fire Protection District accept donations for Operation Bear Hug from Affton kindergarteners at Mesnier Primary School. Photo by Bill Milligan.

Bring this coupon in and save an additional 10% Off retaining wall block. Some exclusions apply.

ARTIST/ DATE DONE: Pick up: TK 5/2/18

PROOF RECEIVED BY:

a bold bid as far as I was concerned. But I was willing to take a shot.” He harbors no ill feelings to the developer, which agreed to let Tower Tee stay beyond its lease: “They went above and beyond to help me say goodbye to our customers. Our policy has been that McBride did us a favor.” As for Tegna, “Tegna was really subsidizing the facility for 50 years — we never paid much rent,” Lotz said. “I feel like I got away with one. For 55 years, Tower Tee had a good deal.”

Mixed reaction for Interstate 55 complex By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor Residents who live next to a proposed apartment complex at Interstate 55 and Lindbergh Boulevard are up in arms over the prospect of their new neighbors, but some south county residents said the time has come to embrace change. The county Planning Commission held a public hearing last week on a $25 million, 160-apartment high-end complex proposed to be built along Forest Dale Drive off Union Road, next to Interstate 55. The site would be accessed by an existing stub street off South Lindbergh Boulevard that goes between the Holiday Inn and the shopping center that includes Marshall’s and JCPenney.

FINAL PROOF APPROVED BY/ DATE:

“I grew up in south county and would appreciate the opportunity to work there,” said Kent Evans, who represents developer A-Quire LLC. A previous development at the same vacant site proposed by McBride & Son a few years ago was approved by the county but was dropped when McBride couldn’t make the numbers work, he said. That was an $8 million project and smaller than the current proposal. The apartment complex would feature a garage for every apartment, a dog park, 9-foot ceilings, vaulted ceilings on the top floor, walk-in closets with automatic lighting and stainless-steel appliances, Evans said. It would have elevators to every floor (See COMPLEX, Page 22A)


Call Publishing, Thursday, July 12, 2018 - Page 3A

326 East Courtois St. St. Louis, MO 63111

314-638-9940

www.lemayblock.com

Ask About DISCOUNT BLOCK Stop and visit our extensive indoor showroom!

Tower Tee hosts farewell concert

Above, Tower Tee owner Steve Lotz and batting cages operator Dave Swatek wave ‘goodbye’ to the crowd after announcing the next band to perform during the golf course’s farewell concert Sunday. While on stage, organizers read a statement from U.S. Rep. Ann Wagner. ‘Everyone has a Tower Tee story, which is a testament to the many lives you have touched,’ Wagner said. Photo by Jessica Belle Kramer.

THE KITCHEN

We can help you create your own outdoor living space!

Rescheduled JB Blast set Aug. 3

The JB Blast set to be held last week for the 4th of July was canceled and will be rescheduled for next month. The Blast was canceled about an hour before it was set to kick off July 3 due to rain and lightning around Jefferson Barracks Park. The grass was too wet, and there was nowhere for people to park, county officials said. The concert will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 3, at the amphitheater

at Jefferson Barracks Park, with fireworks to follow. The event will have the same entertainment lineup from The South Side Johnny Band, county officials said. It will be the 18th year for South St. Louis County’s biggest 4th of July celebration. Admission and parking are free, and food trucks will be available. The band will play across genres, including Motown music and patriotic favorites.

Man charged with murder of thief who took motorcycle in Oakville An Oakville man was charged with murder July 6 for allegedly shooting and killing a man in the early morning hours of July 4 who tried to steal a motorcycle and was later found shot lying along Lemay Ferry Road. Neville Wright, 28, of the 4900 block of Clayridge Drive in Oakville, 63129, was charged with one count of seconddegree murder, one count of armed criminal action and one count of discharging or shooting a firearm at or from a motor vehicle, county prosecutors said. He is being held on $500,000 cash-only bond. An officer from the South County Precinct of the St. Louis County Police Department found the victim, Thomas Hearst Jr., 31, of the 500 block of Apex Avenue, St. Louis, 63136, lying alongside a car around 3 a.m. July 4, in the 4800 block of Lemay Ferry Road. Hearst appeared to have been in a crash. He was taken to a hospital, where emergency-room staff said he appeared to have been shot. Police said in the probable-cause statement that Hearst and a passenger went to an apartment complex “with hope of steal-

ing a motorcycle.” They tried to steal the motorcycle on July 3, but got interrupted by the owner and had trouble getting the motorcycle on the truck. They went back the next night and tried again to steal the motorcycle. The motorcycle’s owner and the suspect confronted the thieves, police said. The suspect and owner got in their car and followed the thieves, who were in a black pickup truck, as they turned down a no-outlet street. Police say that Wright got out of his car and walked toward the truck, firing one shot in the air as a warning. As Hearst tried to get away, Wright fired a shot “straight through” the truck’s front window, police said. The truck kept driving, and Wright continued to shoot at the truck. Hearst later died of a gunshot wound, police said. Wright’s given address of the Vineyard Apartments is near the location where the police officer found Hearst along the road. Detectives from the county Police Department’s Bureau of Crimes Against Persons are conducting the investigation.

SIZE OF AD(S) Half V

CHISELED PILLAR CAPS $65 ea.

•Ready Mix Concrete •Saturdays Seasonal •Deliveries Available •Fireplace & Fire Ring Kits •Air Conditioning Slabs •2’ x 6’ Concrete Bin Block

•Retaining Walls •Masonry Block •Pavers •Curbs

VINTAGE 6

Firepit $435

with 10% Off Coupon

BAR KITS from $950

With 10% Off Coupon!

PARKING CURB BLOCKS: 72” and 84”

FIREPLACE KITS starting at $2,900 With 10% Off Coupon!

READY MIX CONCRETE: Year round/weekday ready mix deliveries. Exposed aggregates and colored concrete deliveries are always available.

10% OFF ISSUE RUN DATE: 7/12/18

Bring this coupon in and save an additional 10% Off retaining wall block. Some exclusions apply.

ARTIST/ DATE DONE: Pick up: LZ 7/5/18

PROOF RECEIVED BY:

FINAL P APPROVED



Oa k ville Call

Read about the happy

Serving South St. Louis County Since 1989

couple.

“In the Mail Weekly, Online Daily” | www.callnewspapers.com

Page 12A

Volume 30, Number 40

1 Section, 24 Pages

Thursday, Oct. 4, 2018

9977 Lin Ferry Drive, 63123

Judge sides with the County Council in lawsuit against Stenger By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor A judge sided with the County Council last week in its lawsuit against County Executive Steve Stenger, issuing a

temporary injunction forcing Stenger to release the money he’s withheld from the council in a standoff over how county government operates. Because council members say it nearly led to a shutdown

of the County Council, the budget dispute is currently the most prominent among a range of issues in a lawsuit that members of the council brought against Stenger related to (See LAWSUIT, Page 16A)

McBride promises to delay rezoning of Tower Tee; Clancy would decide By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor A housing developer has promised to delay any possible rezoning of Tower Tee until after Affton’s new councilwoman joins the St. Louis County Council next year, which an activist sees as a positive sign any rezoning can be blocked. If the plan reaches the council after Jan. 1, an Affton activist working for the last year to “Save Tower Tee” said he doesn’t

believe it will have the votes to pass. Affton resident Michael Burton has taken the lead in trying to preserve Tower Tee, the now-shuttered golf course and driving range, by going to Clayton for nearly a year to ask the council not to rezone it for a subdivision like the one proposed by McBride Berra last year with 158 houses on Tower Tee’s 27 acres. If the rezoning is delayed past Jan. 1, new (See TOWER, Page 17A)

Oakville resident preserves course’s structures in case Tower Tee returns By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor If the “Save Tower Tee” group gets its way, the golf course will be preserved for future generations to enjoy just as Affton residents have for the past 50 years. If an idea to keep Tower Tee a golf course or park can be seen through to completion, the group owns or has promises to buy back many of the structures and statues that

Tower Tee-goers were used to seeing at the beloved Affton institution, which would ensure that a new Tower Tee could resemble the old one with a golf course, driving range, mini-golf course and batting cages. Affton resident Michael Burton has taken the lead in organizing opposition to a possible rezoning of Tower Tee, which closed in July, proposed by McBride Berra last (See TEE, Page 10A)

Students’ reading goes to the dogs

The library at Trautwein Elementary School started going to the dogs last week, but that’s a good thing when it comes to encouraging students to read. Trautwein librarian Natalie Oleshchuk welcomed Love on a Leash therapy dogs and their trainers into her library to give students a boost in reading skills. ‘Research shows that this program helps most children improve their fluency and confidence in reading,’ Oleshchuk said in a news release. ‘Therapy dogs help children calm their bodies and minds, allowing them to focus on reading.’ Above, trainer Mary Fischer visits with her dog Tinkerbell and, clockwise from her, first-graders Liam Wilson, Hana Dedovic, Ethan Lora and Logan Reiser. As one student reads for 10 minutes, others listen and pet Tinkerbell.

Sunset Hills officials will vote next week on plan for Econo Lodge site

iPoll Share your opinion at callnewspapers.com

TIME-DATED MATERIAL

POSTAL CUSTOMER

READER Call Publishing 9977 Lin Ferry Drive St. Louis, Mo. 63123

*****ECRWSS EDDM*****

Casey Wong

Presorted Standard EDDM U.S. Postage PAID Louisiana, MO 63353 Permit No. 11

Steve Bersche

By GLORIA LLOYD News Editor A gas station and luxury car wash proposed at the site of the former Econo Lodge in Sunset Hills poses the tricky question of whether to approve a development over neighbors’ objections or try to wait for something better. The proposed 24-hour Tidal Wave Luxury Car Wash development would also include a full-service car wash with employees

washing cars, a drive-thru Smoothie King, a Kaldi’s Coffee and donut shop and a “convenience market,” which developers say would be a bit more upscale than an average convenience store. The Board of Aldermen is slated to vote on the plan when it meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9, at City Hall, 3939 S. Lindbergh Blvd. Mayor Pat Fribis told the Crestwood-Sunset Hills Kiwanis Club (See PLAN, Page 23A)

Last week’s question: Do you believe that Councilman Ernie Trakas violated the Charter with his work for school districts? This week’s question: Should Crestwood Yes (53.66%) No (2.44%) change its city logo to more of a Route 66 theme? Undecided (41.46%) I Have No Opinion (2.44%) Visit www.callnewspapers.com to share your opinion.

Inside the Call

Web exclusive

Sunset Hills News....... Our Town.................... Lemay News................ Opinions...................... Letters to the Editor.... Calendar...................... Nuptials....................... County News............... Classifieds.................... Crossword Puzzle........

The potential new owner of the former Crestwood Plaza mall site held a broker open house Wednesday, after the Call went to press. To read more on this story and see other web-exclusive content, including photos, visit the newspaper’s website at www. callnewspapers.com.

Page 3A Page 4A Page 5A Page 6A Page 7A Page 8A Page 12A Page 16A Page 18A Page 19A


Page 10A - Call Publishing, Thursday, October 4, 2018

• Tee New Tower Tee could look just like its predecessor if statues brought back (Continued from Page 1A)

year for 158 houses on Tower Tee’s 27 acres. McBride proposed the idea of the subdivision last year but withdrew the plan amid a backlash. Tower Tee, which leased its land from KSDK Channel 5 owner Tegna, secured an extension on its lease but closed in July. The developer hasn’t come forward with a public plan for a subdivision since. But Burton said McBride CEO John Eilermann promised that he wouldn’t submit a new plan until after Jan. 1, when new 5th District Councilwoman Lisa Clancy takes office. With that decision, Burton feels it’s easier to both block any eventual subdivision and to actually “save Tower Tee” in a new form, either as a county park or run by a nonprofit that he is in the early planning stages of forming. He feels that both the legislators who would represent Affton at the time of a rezoning, Clancy and 6th District Councilman Ernie Trakas, R-Oakville, would vote against the plan. “I believe both of them are going to vote to keep Tower Tee a green space,” Burton said. Clancy, a Democrat from Maplewood, said she has talked with many Affton residents throughout her campaign and at Tower Tee’s farewell concert and stands behind them completely. “My commitment is working with the people of Affton to making that property what they want, which is a green space,” she said. As the home legislator for any zoning plan, Clancy would control the legislation and by council tradition dictate whether it gets approved. “That will probably stop the rezoning,” Burton said. “So then the question becomes: What’s the best thing for the space?” He would like the county to buy the land and make it a

county park so that Affton keeps its green space. A series of residents who have gone to council meetings, ranging from children to residents in their 90s, have pleaded for the same thing. They would have preferred to keep Tower Tee as it was. But since they can’t, this is the next best thing. But the county parks system just finished its master plan, which doesn’t call for adding any more green space. Michael Burton Instead, the plan is to fix up the current parks. Money is always a factor in county government too. Some council members contend the parks department is flush with cash, but Parks Director Gary Bess said the master plan process identified a long list of $90 million in unfunded maintenance needs. Burton likes the idea of a 50-50 public-private partnership, and Bess has experience with that idea from when he served as parks director for St. Louis city. But Bess rules out the idea of the county buying the land for a new park. The master plan said the county should focus on fixing its $90 million in unaddressed maintenance rather than park expansion, and money from the sale of Sylvan Springs is to improve parks rather than buy more. “If the land would be presented to us as a donation, it’s something we might consider,” Bess said. But he cautioned that he would have to look into the economics of the driving range. Trakas said he would also have to assess the cost of any plan before signing on to a new county park in Affton. When Tower Tee closed in July, owner Steve Lotz auctioned off the pavilion, statues and pretty much everything that he could. The day before the Tower Tee farewell concert July 9, Oakville resident and real-estate broker Robert Luepker was catching up on old issues of the Call and picked up a May issue with an article in which Lotz said that his golf

Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more.

The Smart Choice in Senior Living. Only at Friendship Village.

IT’S NEVER TOO EARLY!

In 1975, our founders came together with a faith-based mission to provide the very best option in senior living and healthcare - all on one campus. Our Life Care model provides for your future health care needs at a predictable cost - for life. And, a portion of your fees can be tax deductible!

A not-for-profit Life Care community by FV Services, Inc.

FV10992

/

Sept/Oct Life Care Ad

SIZE OF AD(S) 1/2

(314) 270-2021

SUNSET HILLS 12563 Village Circle Drive, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 Visit FriendshipVillageSTL.com today to learn more.

CN10418

/ The Call / Half Page with Border ISSUE RUN ARTIST/ DATE: DATE DONE: 10/4/18 Proof 1: GS 10/1/18

course would definitely close in July and “there’s no saving Tower Tee.” Luepker had never been to Tower Tee and doesn’t live in Affton, but he was touched by his fellow south county residents’ desire to save the property and stayed up all night reading old articles about Tower Tee. “I had never even been in Tower Tee, so none of this has got to do with going when I was a little kid there or something,” Luepker said. “I was just tired of these big companies coming in and taking things from the public just for greed and profit.” He went to the farewell concert, talked to Lotz and offered that night to buy everything that was going up for sale at the auction. But Lotz said the auction couldn’t be stopped. “I told him I’d buy the stuff right there, just name a price, and I guess he thought I was kidding,” Luepker said. Luepker went to the auction and bought the 40-foot pavilion and other key parts of the Tower Tee infrastructure. Burton bought many of the accessories from the mini-golf course, and he went around and secured names, phone numbers and promises from many of the people who bought the 15 animal statues and other portable items that if the group could bring Tower Tee back, the people would sell the items back. One of the buyers was Joe Edwards, the Delmar Loop developer, who bought the rhinoceros but promised to sell it back if Tower Tee returns. Luepker is keeping the pavilion at the site and says Tegna can’t move it because he owns it. “Tower Tee isn’t gone,” he said. “Pretty much all of it is saved.” If the Save Tower Tee nonprofit can raise enough money to keep the land a park, Burton has a plan to make it a gathering place for Affton besides just a business. He would convert it to a nine-hole golf course instead of keeping 18 holes, and he would use that extra space as a park or gathering area with a playground and an area for community events.

/

9.875” x 6.375”

/ October 4, 2018 1:00 PM PROOF / 4C / CN10418 FINAL PROOF RECEIVED BY: APPROVED BY/ DATE:


Call Publishing, Thursday, October 4, 2018 - Page 17A

• Tower Burton says supermajority out of question for McBride (Continued from Page 1A)

5th District Councilwoman Lisa Clancy would, by council tradition, dictate whether it gets approved. Burton ran for the 5th District County Council against incumbent Pat Dolan, D-Richmond Heights, but later dropped out and eventually supported eventual winner Clancy because of talks they had about Tower Tee, among other things. McBride proposed the idea of the subdivision last year but withdrew the plan amid a backlash. Tower Tee, which leased its land from KSDK Channel 5 owner Tegna, secured an extension on the lease but closed in July. McBride hasn’t come forward with a public plan for a subdivision since. But Burton said McBride CEO John Eilermann promised him not to submit a rezoning plan until after Jan. 1, when Clancy takes office. With that decision, Burton feels it’s easier to both block any eventual subdivision and to actually “save Tower Tee” in a new form, either as a county park or run by a nonprofit that he is in the early planning stages of forming. He’s working to gather enough signatures from surrounding property owners to force the plan to gain a supermajority in order to pass, or six votes. He feels that both the legislators who would represent Affton at the time of a rezoning, Clancy and 6th District Councilman Ernie Trakas, R-Oakville, would vote against the plan. “I believe both of them are going to vote to keep Tower Tee a green space,” Burton said. Clancy, a Democrat from Maplewood, said she has talked with many Affton residents throughout her campaign and at Tower Tee’s farewell concert and stands behind them completely.

• Ride Sunset Hills Police force will have no overtime (Continued from Page 3A)

the route, the city is taking the lead on security and planning. The bike cruise was originally supposed to happen in conjunction with Sunset Hills’ new joint festival with Crestwood, SunCrest Fest, which went off without a hitch Sept. 22 at Kitun Park, the cities’ shared dog park by Truman Middle School. But Crestwood officials balked due to concerns that the Crestwood Police Department couldn’t handle the bike traffic, or that the blocked-off lanes on Watson Road could create safety concerns. City officials even mentioned they might go to the Missouri Department of Transportation and ask the state agency to revoke permission for the bike ride in the Crestwood city limits. Without Crestwood’s participation, Sunset Hills moved the bike ride to another

“My commitment is working with the people of Affton to making that property what they want, which is a green space,” she said. As the home legislator for any zoning plan, Clancy would control the legislation and by counLisa Clancy cil tradition dictate whether it gets approved. Trakas said he is not taking any position on any plan yet, since there isn’t a plan submitted yet. He said he hadn’t received many calls about it from 6th District residents. Tower Tee is in the 5th District, but some of its neighbors are in the 6th. “I don’t discuss how I’m going to vote 4460 Lemay Ferry with anyone, and the simple fact of the (314) 487-4242FINAL PROOF SIZE OF ISSUE RUN ARTIST/ PROOF matter is there’s nothing to consider at Dine-in AD(S) DATE: DATE DONE: RECEIVED BY: ONLY APPROVED BY/ D this point,” Trakas said. “When and if a measure makes its way to the council, I’m 10/4/18 Proof 1: GS 9/14/18 going to do what I 1/8 usually do and scrutinize it and make my determination at that time.” He also declined to say yet whether he Valid October 5th ONLY When You Buy Two thinks the area should stay a green space, but he noted, “I think that’s as valid as any other proposition. I’ve heard that for some time now, but I’ve not seen any evidence that that’s in play.” Burton said that 7th District Councilman Dine-in ONLY. Must present coupon before ordering. Not valid private parties, no splitting, no substitutions. Mark Harder, R-Ballwin, who works for McBride, has “assured me that he’s going to recuse himself.” That would be three votes the plan couldn’t get, which would ensure that it couldn’t get a supermajority and pass if Burton gathers enough surrounding sigConcord Call, Green Park Call, Oakville Call, natures. SunCrest Call, Mail Call, Welcome Call, onCall “That will probably stop the rezoning,” Burton said. “So then the question If you are currently receiving one of the Call’s weekly, mailed newspapers Concord If becomes: What’s the best thing for the Call, Green Park Call, Oakville Call, or SunCrest Call or wish to receive future Call Call, space?” publications, you can make sure you’re keeping up-to-date with local news, sports and publ

Friday Only

CHICKEN MODIGA

For Two $24.95

w/salad

Voluntary Subscriptions

SIZE OF AD(S)

advertising with a volunteer subscription to the newspaper you are now reading. I want to be informed. Please continue sending me the Call, or please send me the Call when you expand your circulation to my zip code.

adve to be you

Signature: _____________________________________________________

Sign

ISSUE RUN ARTIST/ PROOF FINAL PROO Dat Date: _______________________ Check One:  Resident  Business DATE: DATE DONE: RECEIVED BY: APPROVED BY/

night away from SunCrest Fest. Print name: __________________________________________ 1/8 and city officials 10/4/18 Proof 1: GS 9/26/18 But it’s still a night ride, Address: __________________________________________________________ say it will be safe. “It will be safe, we’ll have police, we’ll City: ____________________________ State: _____ Zip Code: ____________ have cones, MoDOT has approved it,” Phone: _______________________________ Fribis said. E-Mail:* ____________________________________________________________ “It’ll be a wonderful event.” Seemingly in response to Crestwood’s Check box to receive onCall eNewsletter that includes late breaking news and hesitation, Bersche jokingly questioned Coupons on Call with offers from local businesses. Sunset Hills Police Chief Steve Dodge as *Must have email address to receive onCall eNewsletter. Bersche gave his usual reports from the Police Advisory Board and the Parks and Send, or drop to: Circulation, Call Newspapers Recreation Board at the city’s Aug. 11 9977 Lin Ferry Dr., St. Louis, MO 63123 Board of Aldermen meeting. Cash donations that accompany voluntary subscriptions will be used to help defray mailing costs. “Chief, just to make sure we can do this If you have any questions, call 314-843-0102. Ask for Diane Henrich or Christy Clauss. — it’s going to be OK?” Bersche asked Voluntary Subscription form and onCall eNewsletter sign-up also available online about the Route 66 event. at callnewspapers.com The Sunset Hills Police Department has everything under control with “no overIn the Mail Weekly, Online Daily at time,” Dodge said. callnewspapers.com “It’s so easy,” Bersche said. “Now that we’ve established that the bike If you want to be well informed, cruise will not be a huge drain of public you’ve got to read the Call. Since 1989 resources, I have nothing new to report.”

Prin

Add

City

Pho

E-M

*Mus

Send

Cash If you

Volun at ca


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.