Tilley: Coping With This Week's Blizzard

This week we witnessed a rare event as nearly the entire state of Missouri was under a blizzard warning. Unfortunately some Missourians and travelers were stuck at times in this severe weather, however thankfully a vast number of Missourians took cover and stayed indoors.

In Jefferson City we traversed to the Capitol and met Monday and Tuesday, but dismissed for the rest of the week, so everyone that could have time to get home. Other than the sheer display that Mother Nature put on, I was impressed with the job of our highway patrol, MODOT, and emergency personnel did in preparing and reacting to the weather.

In our own capacities many of us attempted to open as many communication lines as possible between local officials and public safety personnel and officials at the state level monitoring road conditions and weather. At times like these it was good that so many of us were able to work together so smoothly and in the end the benefit was improved public safety.

As we proceed with the legislative session I hope many of us in Jefferson City will take time to reflect on our experience this week. I believe it was an opportunity for many of us to be reminded that while we may disagree on issues; our first concern should be for the people of Missouri.

I would also like to take this opportunity and encourage everyone to get familiarized with the Missouri Department of Transportation website. In the event that we get more winter storms they have updated information on road conditions and travel information. Missouri Department of Transportation’s website is: http://www.modot.mo.gov/

Thank you for the opportunity to serve here in the House of Representatives. As always, I welcome your comments. You may reach me at 573-751-1488, send your e-mails to steven.tilley@house.mo.gov or write to me at the Missouri House of Representatives, State Capitol, Room 308, Jefferson City, MO 65101.