An introductory visit from a U.S. senator’s office opened the door to a wide-ranging discussion with Ray County commissioners about infrastructure challenges, funding limitations and areas where federal assistance could help. Tobias Steffensmeier, a field representative with Sen. Josh Hawley’s office, introduced himself to Ray County commissioners and outlined his role as a federal liaison. Steffensmeier noted he recently started working in the office and was asked to visit communities across the state to learn more about local priorities. “I just started in Senator Hawley’s office before the turn of the year, which was like mid or early December,” said Steffensmeier. “Since I’m supposed to get the lay of the land a little bit, he sort of gave me free rein and told me to come check out your county, chat with you and hear what makes your county so great.” He explained the visit was intended both to learn more about the county and to hear directly from commissioners about unmet…