HILLSBORO — The Jefferson County Health Department has opened a new clinic and headquarters here in a major expansion that began even as the office and its leaders were the target of vocal public mistrust, threats and protests during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jefferson County, the third-most populous county in the St. Louis metro area and majority politically conservative, was one of the most contentious spots in the region during the pandemic. People objected to mask mandates and more.

“I think this location is something that I’m hoping takes our mind off of some of the past and helps us look to the future, get our focus back together and do those things that we do the best,” said Steve Sikes, the Jefferson County Health Department’s executive director.

The 19,957-square-foot facility is

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