Top Stories Today for St. Joseph, Missouri – Jan. 3, 2026

As St. Joseph moves into the first weekend of the new year, the community is balancing a commitment to local investment with a surprising encounter from the natural world.

An Unexpected Guest in Country Club Village

Residents north of St. Joseph are waking up to news of a rare and startling visitor. According to News-Press NOW, authorities in Country Club Village confirmed that a mountain lion was struck by a vehicle Friday evening near 71 Highway and Miller Road. Before the collision, several residents had reported sightings of the cougar. The Missouri Department of Conservation is assisting local police, noting that while mountain lion sightings have increased statewide over the last year, they remain a significant event for our corner of the state.

Investing in the Community’s Well-Being

In a notable move toward local social stability, the city has announced the allocation of $401,000 in Community Development grants. Reported by KQ2 and News-Press NOW, these HUD-funded grants will support 13 local agencies, including the YWCA and Community Missions. This influx of capital is aimed at bolstering the “safety net” services that many in our community rely on, particularly as we move through the winter months.

Youth, Sports, and a “Sweet” Anniversary

There is a distinct sense of momentum in the community’s social and economic life this morning:

• Leveling the Playing Field: The St. Joseph Post highlights a local youth sports organization that is currently working to ensure kids in need have the equipment and fees necessary to participate in local leagues. It is a quiet but powerful effort to ensure that opportunity in St. Joseph isn’t limited by a family’s bank account.

• A Milestone for Chase Candy: Celebration continues for the Chase Candy Company as they mark 150 years in St. Joseph. KQ2 reports that the historic company remains a cornerstone of the city’s identity, bridging the gap between St. Joseph’s industrial past and its modern entrepreneurial spirit.

• Winter Showcases: The Civic Arena was reportedly filled with energy for the Winter High School Basketball Showcase. Per KQ2, the event has become a focal point for local talent, drawing crowds and fostering a strong sense of school spirit early in the year.

On the Horizon: Business and Governance

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce is looking ahead to the 2026 Annual Banquet on January 10th, an event that traditionally sets the tone for the city’s economic goals. Meanwhile, the City Council is preparing for its first meeting of the year this Monday, January 5th, where they are expected to discuss the final implementation phases of the new $15 minimum wage and local infrastructure projects.

Safety and Awareness

On a more somber note, the St. Joseph Post reports that the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office is seeking public assistance in identifying suspects involved in a recent act of vandalism within the local school district. Community members are encouraged to share any information that might help resolve the matter and protect public property.

Sources

• St. Joseph Post: stjosephpost.com

• News-Press NOW / KQ2: newspressnow.com

• St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce: saintjoseph.com