The Reporter newspaper, Camdenton Missouri

The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.

Published June 4, 2025

Two more cities receive Blue Shield Designation

LAKE OF THE OZARKS - Osage Beach and Sunrise Beach have officially received the Missouri Blue Shield designation from the Missouri Department of Public Safety (DPS).

This honor highlights communities that have a strong commitment to public safety and an ongoing support for the men and women in law enforcement, the DPS stated.

Launched by Governor Mike Kehoe in January 2025 through Executive Order 25-03, the Missouri Blue Shield Program recognizes cities and counties that go above and beyond to reduce crime, strengthen partnerships between law enforcement agencies and build meaningful connections with the communities they serve.

“Public safety is the foundation of a thriving community and state. It affects everything from families feeling secure to businesses having the confidence to invest and grow,” said Governor Kehoe. “We designed the Missouri Blue Shield Program to recognize communities that go above and beyond in creating a place where people want to live, work, and build their futures. A Missouri Blue Shield designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of local governments across Missouri who are leading the way in making public safety a priority.”

“The Department of Public Safety is proud to work alongside communities like Osage Beach and Sunrise Beach that have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing public safety,” said Mark James, Director of the Missouri DPS. “This program is about fostering collaboration between local law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. Our goal is to support these efforts, providing resources and guidance to help communities build sustainable, long-term solutions for crime reduction and public safety.”

Eligibility and Program Details

Communities are eligible for a Missouri Blue Shield designation based on their dedication to reducing crime, making substantial investments in public safety and developing strong collaboration with law enforcement agencies and community stakeholders. Each participating community’s commitment will be reviewed annually to ensure continued alignment with the program’s goals.

Participation Incentives

Communities that earn a Missouri Blue Shield designation will receive grant funding for law enforcement training and equipment as part of Governor Kehoe’s Recommended Budget for the State Fiscal Year 2026.

Communities will also be featured on Governor Kehoe’s social media pages as well as the DPS website to highlight their participation in the program.