At the July 1, 2026, St. Robert City Council meeting, the City had the privilege of recognizing one of our youngest and most enthusiastic residents, five-year-old Bear Polk.

For Bear, trash day wasn't just another day of the week. It was something he eagerly looked forward to. Week after week, Bear would be outside waiting for the City's sanitation team, greeting them with a big smile and an enthusiastic wave. His excitement quickly became something our sanitation workers looked forward to as well.

When asked what he thought about trash trucks, Bear had a simple answer that brought smiles to everyone in attendance: "Trash trucks are the best!"

To recognize his enthusiasm and appreciation for the hardworking men and women who help keep our community clean, the City proudly presented Bear with an Honorary Sanitation Worker Certificate, officially welcoming him to the St. Robert "Clean Team." He was also presented with a City of St. Robert Challenge Coin in recognition of the joy and positivity he shared with our sanitation crews.

While Bear and his family are preparing to move to Rolla, they will always have a special place in the hearts of our City team. We will certainly miss seeing Bear's smiling face and enthusiastic waves each week, but we know he will continue spreading that same joy wherever life takes him.

On behalf of the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, City staff, and the entire St. Robert community, we congratulate Bear on becoming an Honorary Sanitation Worker and wish him and his family nothing but happiness and success in their new home.

Thank you, Bear, for reminding us that even the smallest acts of kindness can make someone's day.