Mayor Bren Flanigan appointed Juan Topete as the Ward 1 Councilmember during the November 25th City Council meeting. Topete previously served three terms on the City Council from 2016 to 2022, bringing valuable experience and familiarity with City operations back to the governing body.
His appointment ensures continued representation for Ward 1 as the Council moves forward with ongoing projects and upcoming initiatives.
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.
The City of Carthage extends its appreciation to our staff and community members for their generous contributions to our Thanksgiving Food Drive. The donated items have been delivered to Carthage Crosslines Ministries to support local families ahead of the holiday. Thank you for helping strengthen our community through your continued generosity.
Click on this link for a quick survey https://www.carthagemo.gov/forms/carthage-communication-preferences to help us better understand where you get your news information from.
In recognition of Veterans Day, the City of Carthage proudly honors our employees and elected officials who have served our country with courage, commitment, and honor. Their dedication to protecting our freedoms is reflected in the service they continue to provide to our community each day. We are grateful to the following individuals for their military service: from the Marine Corps, Rick Williams, Oscar Salas, Mitchell Eldridge, and Derrick Moore with the Fire Department; from the Air Force and Army National Guard, Brad Osburn with the Golf Course; from the Navy, Gary Chambers with the Golf Course; from the Army National Guard, Chief Bill Hawkins with the Police Department; from the Air Force, Corporal Ethan Snow with the Police Department; and from the Army, Sergeant Elias Salinas with the Police Department, Bill Smith with Public Works, Ed Keys with the Street Department, Mayor Bren Flanigan, and Councilmember Ron Wells. The City of Carthage extends sincere gratitude to these men for their service to our nation and their continued commitment to the citizens of Carthage.
🌦️ 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!
St. Ann’s Students Explore Fire Safety and Science at Carthage Fire Station #1
Students from St. Ann’s School enjoyed an exciting and educational field trip to Carthage Fire Station #1, where they experienced hands-on learning with a tour, interactive presentations, and a creative science experiment.
During the visit, preschool through 5th grade students participated in an egg drop challenge; a fun experiment to test their creativity and problem-solving skills. Each student was challenged to design a protective container to keep their egg from breaking when dropped from the fire truck’s extended ladder.
Firefighters raised the ladder high above the station’s bay, giving students the thrill of seeing their creations put to the test. Some eggs didn’t survive the fall, while others impressed everyone with clever designs. One student’s egg, packed securely inside a peanut butter jar, survived the impact, but the jar itself cracked open!
The activity began with an unprotected egg drop to show the effect of impact and ended with the dramatic drop of a pumpkin from 75 feet in the air, an exciting finale that had everyone cheering.
In addition to the experiment, students learned about fire safety, explored the fire trucks, and got to see firsthand how Carthage firefighters serve and protect the community.
Everyone who attended had a fantastic time filled with laughter, learning, and appreciation for our local heroes. The Carthage Fire Department was proud to host such an enthusiastic group of young learners and looks forward to welcoming more school groups in the future.
Students from St. Ann’s School enjoyed an exciting and educational field trip to Carthage Fire Station #1, where they experienced hands-on learning with a tour, interactive presentations, and a creative science experiment.
During the visit, preschool through 5th grade students participated in an egg drop challenge; a fun experiment to test their creativity and problem-solving skills. Each student was challenged to design a protective container to keep their egg from breaking when dropped from the fire truck’s extended ladder.
Firefighters raised the ladder high above the station’s bay, giving students the thrill of seeing their creations put to the test. Some eggs didn’t survive the fall, while others impressed everyone with clever designs. One student’s egg, packed securely inside a peanut butter jar, survived the impact, but the jar itself cracked open!
The activity began with an unprotected egg drop to show the effect of impact and ended with the dramatic drop of a pumpkin from 75 feet in the air, an exciting finale that had everyone cheering.
In addition to the experiment, students learned about fire safety, explored the fire trucks, and got to see firsthand how Carthage firefighters serve and protect the community.
Everyone who attended had a fantastic time filled with laughter, learning, and appreciation for our local heroes. The Carthage Fire Department was proud to host such an enthusiastic group of young learners and looks forward to welcoming more school groups in the future.
Public Notice: Unauthorized Social Media Accounts
The City of Carthage has been made aware of several unauthorized Facebook accounts that have recently been created using the City’s name, imagery, or likeness. These pages are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the City of Carthage in any capacity.
To ensure you are receiving accurate and timely information, please refer only to the City’s official communication channels, including the verified City of Carthage Facebook page and the official website at www.carthagemo.gov
The City advises residents and visitors to exercise caution when interacting with or sharing content from unofficial sources. Misinformation disseminated through imitation or parody accounts can lead to confusion regarding City services, events, and public notices.
If you encounter a page or post that appears to falsely represent the City of Carthage, please report it directly to Facebook and notify City staff at (417) 237-7000 for verification.
The City of Carthage remains committed to transparent, accurate, and professional communication with the public.
The City of Carthage has been made aware of several unauthorized Facebook accounts that have recently been created using the City’s name, imagery, or likeness. These pages are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or operated by the City of Carthage in any capacity.
To ensure you are receiving accurate and timely information, please refer only to the City’s official communication channels, including the verified City of Carthage Facebook page and the official website at www.carthagemo.gov
The City advises residents and visitors to exercise caution when interacting with or sharing content from unofficial sources. Misinformation disseminated through imitation or parody accounts can lead to confusion regarding City services, events, and public notices.
If you encounter a page or post that appears to falsely represent the City of Carthage, please report it directly to Facebook and notify City staff at (417) 237-7000 for verification.
The City of Carthage remains committed to transparent, accurate, and professional communication with the public.
🚧 Widening Project at Airport Drive and Hazel Avenue
The asphalt work on Hazel Avenue has been completed! Public Works will assess the road in the morning, Thursday Oct. 2nd to ensure it is ready to reopen for traffic. Airport Drive will remain closed.
We know many of you have been taking alternate routes during this project, and we truly appreciate your patience throughout the delays.
The asphalt work on Hazel Avenue has been completed! Public Works will assess the road in the morning, Thursday Oct. 2nd to ensure it is ready to reopen for traffic. Airport Drive will remain closed.
We know many of you have been taking alternate routes during this project, and we truly appreciate your patience throughout the delays.
The long-awaited sculpture funded by Vision Carthage since late 2023 was installed on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, at the Fairlawn roundabout. The original project proposal was prepared by artist Rachel Wilson on September 18, 2021.
This project has been in progress for quite some time as the proper permit from MoDOT was required before installation. Scotts Landscaping will now move forward with beautifying the area surrounding the sculpture.
We would like to thank Parks Superintendent Chad Carney and his staff for their hard work in moving the piece from its previous location near Avilla. At 16 feet tall and weighing approximately 650 pounds, the installation required great care and coordination.
This sculpture will serve as a new landmark for Carthage and a testament to the collaborative efforts that continue to enhance our community. Stay tuned for further updates and details on a special celebration hosted by Vision Carthage, to be announced at a later date.
This project has been in progress for quite some time as the proper permit from MoDOT was required before installation. Scotts Landscaping will now move forward with beautifying the area surrounding the sculpture.
We would like to thank Parks Superintendent Chad Carney and his staff for their hard work in moving the piece from its previous location near Avilla. At 16 feet tall and weighing approximately 650 pounds, the installation required great care and coordination.
This sculpture will serve as a new landmark for Carthage and a testament to the collaborative efforts that continue to enhance our community. Stay tuned for further updates and details on a special celebration hosted by Vision Carthage, to be announced at a later date.
Mark Salazar, founder of Light Sports, a nonprofit based in Webb City with many players from the Carthage area, addressed the Council. He shared that he has been working with a ministry baseball group currently practicing and playing at the historic Carl Lewton Stadium, scheduling their time through the Parks Department Administrative Assistant.
Mr. Salazar presented an idea to the Council requesting consideration of a partnership that would allow him to manage the stadium and coordinate events, with the goal of restoring the historic facility for younger players.
He reported that he, along with a group of volunteers consisting of players and parents, has already completed some minor improvements at the field. Mr. Salazar expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to continue collaborating with the City of Carthage to bring the stadium back to life.
Mr. Salazar presented an idea to the Council requesting consideration of a partnership that would allow him to manage the stadium and coordinate events, with the goal of restoring the historic facility for younger players.
He reported that he, along with a group of volunteers consisting of players and parents, has already completed some minor improvements at the field. Mr. Salazar expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to continue collaborating with the City of Carthage to bring the stadium back to life.
The City of Carthage congratulates Chad Dininger, who will serve as our next Chief of Police following Chief Bill Hawkins’ retirement later this year. We also welcome Richard Bonine, who will begin as Parks and Recreation Director on October 6, 2025.
The Carthage Fire Department was honored to be part of a special moment at Maple Tree Terrace during their Senior Prom. Firefighters took time out of their day to join the celebration, sharing smiles, dancing, and helping create lasting memories for the residents. Their presence brought joy and excitement, showing once again their dedication not only to protecting our community but also to being an active part of it.
A retirement reception was held on Tuesday, September 9, honoring Troy Richards for his five years of dedicated service with the Carthage Police Department. In the photo, Chief Bill Hawkins is shown presenting him with a plaque in recognition of his service.
Discover Carthage’s Civil War Museum
Located at 205 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri, the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into one of the most pivotal times in American history. With engaging exhibits, detailed accounts, and authentic artifacts, the museum preserves and shares the story of the Civil War’s impact on southwest Missouri and beyond.
One of the museum’s highlights is its in-depth presentation of the Battle of Carthage, fought on July 5, 1861—recognized as one of the earliest battles of the Civil War. Through maps, displays, and narratives, visitors can follow the events of that historic day and better understand Carthage’s place in the broader conflict.
The museum also showcases the lives of the men and women who experienced the war firsthand. Exhibits explore local history, military strategy, and the lasting effects of the conflict on Carthage and the surrounding area. It even features a 7-by-15-foot mural painted by local artist Andy Thomas, capturing the drama and significance of the battle in vivid detail.
With free admission and a passionate, friendly staff, there’s nothing keeping you from visiting the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum and experiencing history brought to life.
The museum is open:
Tuesday – Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
(Closed on Mondays)
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a student of history, or a traveler exploring Route 66, the Carthage Civil War Museum is a must-see destination that connects the past to the present.
Located at 205 Grant Street in Carthage, Missouri, the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into one of the most pivotal times in American history. With engaging exhibits, detailed accounts, and authentic artifacts, the museum preserves and shares the story of the Civil War’s impact on southwest Missouri and beyond.
One of the museum’s highlights is its in-depth presentation of the Battle of Carthage, fought on July 5, 1861—recognized as one of the earliest battles of the Civil War. Through maps, displays, and narratives, visitors can follow the events of that historic day and better understand Carthage’s place in the broader conflict.
The museum also showcases the lives of the men and women who experienced the war firsthand. Exhibits explore local history, military strategy, and the lasting effects of the conflict on Carthage and the surrounding area. It even features a 7-by-15-foot mural painted by local artist Andy Thomas, capturing the drama and significance of the battle in vivid detail.
With free admission and a passionate, friendly staff, there’s nothing keeping you from visiting the Battle of Carthage Civil War Museum and experiencing history brought to life.
The museum is open:
Tuesday – Saturday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
(Closed on Mondays)
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a student of history, or a traveler exploring Route 66, the Carthage Civil War Museum is a must-see destination that connects the past to the present.
🚒 Fill the Boot for MDA 💛
Our Carthage Fire Department is once again joining firefighters across the nation for the annual Fill the Boot campaign to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
📍 You’ll find our local firefighters at the north entrance of the Carthage Walmart from 9 AM – 4 PM each day through Labor Day weekend with boots ready to fill!
Since 1954, the partnership between the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and MDA has raised critical funds—one dollar at a time—to help empower people living with neuromuscular disease to live longer, more independent lives.
Every dollar collected stays hard at work fueling research, treatments, and support for families right here in our community.
💛 Stop by, say thank you to our local firefighters, and help us Fill the Boot for MDA!
Our Carthage Fire Department is once again joining firefighters across the nation for the annual Fill the Boot campaign to support the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
📍 You’ll find our local firefighters at the north entrance of the Carthage Walmart from 9 AM – 4 PM each day through Labor Day weekend with boots ready to fill!
Since 1954, the partnership between the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and MDA has raised critical funds—one dollar at a time—to help empower people living with neuromuscular disease to live longer, more independent lives.
Every dollar collected stays hard at work fueling research, treatments, and support for families right here in our community.
💛 Stop by, say thank you to our local firefighters, and help us Fill the Boot for MDA!
Restoring Our Streets After Utility Work — We Appreciate Your Patience
We recognize that many streets in Carthage are currently rough and uneven due to ongoing underground utility work throughout the city. We want to assure our residents that the City has a well-coordinated plan to repair and restore affected roadways.
This plan prioritizes safety and long-term quality to ensure our streets meet community standards. Because these repairs involve multiple phases and coordination with various departments and contractors, the process will take some time to complete.
We ask for your patience and understanding during this period. The City is committed to keeping residents informed with regular updates on repair progress and expected timelines.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to improve Carthage’s streets for everyone.
For questions or concerns, please contact the Street Department (417) 237-7010
We recognize that many streets in Carthage are currently rough and uneven due to ongoing underground utility work throughout the city. We want to assure our residents that the City has a well-coordinated plan to repair and restore affected roadways.
This plan prioritizes safety and long-term quality to ensure our streets meet community standards. Because these repairs involve multiple phases and coordination with various departments and contractors, the process will take some time to complete.
We ask for your patience and understanding during this period. The City is committed to keeping residents informed with regular updates on repair progress and expected timelines.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to improve Carthage’s streets for everyone.
For questions or concerns, please contact the Street Department (417) 237-7010
Downtown Square Sidewalks & Streetscaping Update
Progress continues on the Downtown Square Sidewalks & Streetscaping Restoration, with another exterior corner now complete. Crews have pushed forward through rain and extreme heat, and work remains ongoing.
Please use caution when entering the square, as construction activity will continue. We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance the heart of our city.
Progress continues on the Downtown Square Sidewalks & Streetscaping Restoration, with another exterior corner now complete. Crews have pushed forward through rain and extreme heat, and work remains ongoing.
Please use caution when entering the square, as construction activity will continue. We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance the heart of our city.
Free Mahjong Open Play – Every Wednesday!
Join us every Wednesday at 1 PM for Afternoon Mahjong at Carthage Memorial Hall. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, all are welcome to come play and connect with others who enjoy the game.
Register today at https://secure.rec1.com/MO/carthage-mo/catalog
Join us every Wednesday at 1 PM for Afternoon Mahjong at Carthage Memorial Hall. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, all are welcome to come play and connect with others who enjoy the game.
Register today at https://secure.rec1.com/MO/carthage-mo/catalog
Mahjong Classes Series Draws Strong Community Interest
A three-week series of Mahjong classes kicked off on Friday, June 13th, attracting a full house of enthusiastic participants. The first session reached capacity quickly, with a waiting list established due to high demand.
Sue, a passionate Mahjong player, along with two of her friends, generously volunteered their time and expertise to lead the classes. Their commitment to sharing the game has sparked great interest within the community, offering residents an engaging opportunity to learn and enjoy this classic tile-based game.
Classes are held at Memorial Hall from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. each Friday. The series will continue over the next two weeks, providing attendees with a chance to develop their skills and connect with fellow players.
For more information, contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 417-237-7050. Registration is open online at https://secure.rec1.com/MO/carthage-mo/catalog.
Residents are encouraged to register soon to secure a spot in future sessions.
