Public Meetings - St Louis, Missouri

The Housing, Urban Development, and Zoning Committee met on February 18, 2026, with Chair Clark Hubbard presiding and six members present, establishing a quorum. The committee considered six board bills: three involving real estate and cooperation agreements, two allocating ARPA funds to the water division, and one tornado relief measure. Votes were taken on four bills. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the Tuesday, February 10, 2026 meeting. Motion by Alderman Aldridge, seconded by Alderman Browning. Vote: 6-0 (six ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - Board Bill 131: Dr. Heather Sweeney, Executive Director of the Gateway Foundation, spoke in support of converting a former restaurant space in City Garden into a visitor center with concessions and gallery space. She emphasized community hub and arts programming goals. - Board Bill 132: Kevin Trapp, Chief Bridge Engineer for the Board of Public Service, testified that the city owns a 2,000-foot section of the MacArthur Bridge on the Illinois side that is a liability. He stated that East St. Louis Mayor Powell requested ownership to demolish it and develop housing. He estimated demolition cost at $3 million, which the city would avoid by vacating. - Board Bill 160: No public speakers signed up. - Board Bill 161: No public speakers signed up. - Board Bill 157: No public speakers signed up. - Board Bill 158: No public speakers signed up. Discussion Items - Board Bill 131 – City Garden Visitor Center: Alderwoman Sweitzer presented a cooperation agreement amendment allowing the Gateway Foundation to convert a vacant restaurant space into a visitor center with concessions, gallery space, and community exhibits. Several aldermen expressed support, noting the space's history of restaurant turnover and the need for activation downtown. Vice Chair Sonier highlighted alignment with upcoming Brickline transit connection. - Board Bill 132 – MacArthur Bridge Vacation: Alderwoman Sweitzer explained the bill vacates a portion of the MacArthur Bridge on the Illinois side, selling it to East St. Louis for $1. Alderman Cohen questioned past precedent for donating bridges and expressed concern about East St. Louis's ability to afford demolition. Alderman Browning noted the city would save $3 million in demolition costs. Director Rich Bradley of BPS confirmed an agreement between Mayor Jones and Mayor Powell. The bridge is barricaded, a safety hazard, and serves no municipal purpose. - Board Bill 160 – Water Infrastructure ARPA Interest: Alderwoman Sweitzer introduced a $1.2 million allocation of ARPA interest funds for water main replacement. Director Nirj Patel of Public Utilities detailed 64 critical water main projects (average $500,000 each) and a total capital need of $700 million. The bill would fund 2–3 projects, including mains on Weber Road, Kia Cook, and Semple Avenue. Vice Chair Sonier and others discussed the need for rate increases, bonding, and state revolving funds to address long-term needs. Alderman Aldridge requested a holistic update on ARPA funds. - Board Bill 161 – ARPA Reallocation to Water Division: Alderwoman Sweitzer presented a $6,866,460.48 reallocation of unspent ARPA funds to the water division as revenue replacement for 2024 expenses. Caitlin Smith from the mayor's office explained the mechanism. Nancy Walsh from the city counselor's office confirmed Treasury guidelines allow reallocation. Alderman Aldridge questioned specific line items, including $10,000 from the impacted tenants fund and $2 million from CDA projects. No vote was taken; the bill will be discussed further on February 24, 2026. - Board Bill 158 – Clean Energy Development Board Cleanup: Chair Clark Hubbard presented a bill to reinstate the St. Louis City PACE program by removing six words that inadvertently repealed the authorizing ordinance. No questions were raised. Alderman Aldridge noted this demonstrates how legislation is refined in committee. The bill was advanced for a rule suspension to expedite. - Board Bill 157 – Tornado Home Repair ARPA Interest: Chair Clark Hubbard presented a $3.8 million allocation of ARPA interest for direct home repair in the May 2026 tornado zone, with a small portion for Legal Services of Eastern Missouri for title clearing. Director Julia Nix of the STR Recovery Office reported over 3,200 applications for private property assistance, with home repair needs exceeding $150 million. The bill was amended to streamline distribution via emergency contracts. Vice Chair Sonier and Alderman Aldridge raised concerns about funding sustainability, noting the office may exhaust home repair funds by April 2026. Director Nix confirmed a $100+ million gap and that the city is in conversations with MHDC for state funds. Key Outcomes - Board Bill 131: Moved to pass with a do pass recommendation by Vice Chair Sonier, seconded by Alderwoman Sweitzer. Vote: 7-0 (seven ayes). - Board Bill 132: Moved to pass with a do pass recommendation by Vice Chair Sonier, seconded by Alderman Cohen. Vote: 7-0. - Board Bill 160: Moved to pass with a do pass recommendation by Alderman Aldridge, seconded by Vice Chair Sonier. Vote: 7-0. - Board Bill 161: Held for further discussion; no vote taken. Scheduled for February 24, 2026 committee meeting. - Board Bill 158: Moved to pass with a do pass recommendation by Alderman Browning, seconded by Vice Chair Sonier. Vote: 7-0. Chair Clark Hubbard indicated plans to suspend the rules for final passage. - Board Bill 157 (as amended): Moved to pass by Chair Clark Hubbard, seconded by Alderman Aldridge. Vote: 7-0. The amended bill includes streamlined distribution for home repair and title clearing.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Board chambers. The meeting included the approval of minutes, multiple appointments to special districts, introduction of several board bills, perfection of bills, adoption of resolutions, and announcements regarding Mardi Gras and tornado recovery. Key votes included the failure of a data center moratorium and the perfection of a short-term rental tax bill. Consent Calendar - The minutes from Friday, February 6, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Mayor Spencer's appointments to the South Grand Community Improvement District (Bobby Lessantine, Brian Roche, Matt Gio) were approved. - Mayor Spencer's reappointments and appointments to the Locust Central Special Business District (Karen Drake, Jennifer Prushner, Michael Berkerman, Dr. Byron Duval, Courtney Mueller, Robert Malthy) were approved. - Board bills 121, 123, 129 were adopted on the perfection consent calendar. - Board bills 99 and 130 were passed on third reading and final passage consent calendar with 13 aye votes. Discussion Items - Board Bill 170 (Stop Sign near School): Introduced by Alderman Narayan. Suspension of rules passed 14-1, bill placed on first reading. - Board Bill 171 (Increase Minor Purchase Order Limit): Introduced by Alderwoman Sanyer. Would raise the $500 limit to $2,500. Suspension of rules passed 10-5, with support from the mayor, supply commissioner, comptroller, and director of operations. Placed on first reading. - Board Bill 172 (Data Center Moratorium): Introduced by Alderman from the 9th. Sought a pause on data center applications until regulations are formulated. Suspension of rules failed 7-8. - Board Bill 173 (Speed Humps in 14th Ward): Introduced by Alderman Aldrick. Suspension of rules passed 13-2, placed on first reading. - Board Bill 174 (Funding for Community Development Corporations): Introduced by Alderwoman Sanyer. Would appropriate $2,500,000 from RAM settlement interest for CDC support. Suspension of rules passed 11-4, referred to Budget committee. - Board Bill 126 Committee Substitute (Short-Term Rental Tax): Perfected. The bill implements the 3% hotel tax on short-term rentals as approved by voters in 2004 (Prop S). Codifies the tax and creates an affordable housing fund. Alderman Narayan clarified it is separate from the ongoing lawsuit on short-term rental regulations. Perfected by voice vote. - Board Bill 122 (TIF Progress Determination): Perfected with a roll call vote of 13-1 (Alderwoman Tyus voted no). The bill finds that TIF plans listed in Exhibit A are making satisfactory progress. - Board Bill 133 (FEMA Crisis Counseling Program): Perfected after a roll call vote of 13 ayes, 1 present (Alderman from the 14th). Appropriates $78,253.60 for mental health services following the May 2025 tornado. - Board Bill 134 (Vegetation Abatement Regulations): Perfected. Updates ordinance 72059 to clarify regulations for abatement on occupied and non-occupied parcels, including fines and fees. Several aldermen were added as co-sponsors. Passed by voice vote. - Resolutions: - Resolution 239 (Board of Adjustments rules) referred to HUDs committee. - Resolution 240 (Bird City designation) referred to Health and Human Development. - Resolution 241 (new street sign proposal) referred to Public Infrastructure. - Resolution 242 (Ricardo "Ricky the Ruler" Duanel Riley Pavilion) adopted. - Resolution 243 (Floyd Irons Basketball Court) adopted. - Resolution 244 (Alderwoman Tamika Hubbard Skating Rink) adopted. - Resolution 245 (Board rules amendments) referred to Legislation and Rules. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes of Feb 6, appointments to South Grand CID and Locust Central SBD. - Failed: Board Bill 172 (data center moratorium) – suspension of rules failed 7-8. - Perfected: Board Bills 126, 122, 133, 134. - Adopted: Resolutions 242, 243, 244. - Referred: Board bills and resolutions to appropriate committees. - Announcements: Mardi Gras weekend events (Mayor's Ball at City Hall, parade on Feb 14); tornado recovery continues; moment of silence for Sam, a community member murdered in Tower Grove East. - Next Meeting: Friday, February 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Board chambers.

This meeting of the St. Louis Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee was held on February 13, 2026 (transcript references Wednesday, February 11, 2026; date discrepancy noted). The committee reviewed and passed eight board bills related to traffic calming speed humps, approved previous meeting minutes, and announced an upcoming session on large load tariffs. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 28, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (4-0) with a roll call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public testified or submitted written testimony. Discussion Items - Board Bill 81 (Alderwoman Keys): Directs the installation of speed humps on the 3600-3800 blocks of Washington Avenue and the 3600-3700 blocks of Rendall Square. Alderwoman Keys stated the area has a Montessori school and Loyola Academy, with fast traffic posing a danger; parents had been volunteering as crossing guards. The bill passed unanimously. - Board Bill 135 (Alderwoman Schweitzer): Requests a speed hump in the Boulevard Heights neighborhood (1st Ward) on a street with fast traffic, based on a petition signed by over 50% of residents. Passed unanimously. - Board Bills 139, 140, 141, 142, 143, 144 (Alderwoman Boyd): A package of six bills to clean up documentation for previously approved speed humps in the 13th Ward, ensuring the Streets Department has proper records to proceed. Chair noted a typographical discrepancy in BB141 between "Clayton" and "Claxton" on two lines, which was considered a scrivener's error and not amended. Each bill passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All eight board bills (BB81, BB135, BB139-144) were passed out of committee with a "due pass" recommendation by unanimous voice votes or roll calls. - The committee announced its next meeting on February 18, 2026, featuring presentations from Ameren and the Consumer Council on proposed large load tariffs for high-electricity users like data centers. - Excused absences were granted for the Alderwoman from the 10th Ward and the Alderwoman from the 5th Ward.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Board of Aldermen Chambers. The meeting included an opening reflection on the city's music heritage, approval of appointments, introduction of several bills (including a failed attempt to pause data center approvals), perfection of multiple ordinances, adoption of resolutions honoring community figures, and announcements about Mardi Gras and tornado recovery. The board adjourned until February 20, 2026. Opening Reflection - Alonzo Townsend, son of blues musician Henry Townsend, delivered a reflection on St. Louis's music heritage, urging investment in the local music scene to match cities like Nashville and Austin. He also noted that a Tina Turner kit was introduced by St. Louis City SC. Consent Calendar (Routine Approvals) - Approval of minutes from February 6, 2026, was moved by Alderwoman from the 10th, seconded by Alderwoman from the 11th, and passed by voice vote. - Appointments to the South Grand Community Improvement District: Bobby Lessantine, Brian Roche, and Matt Gio were appointed by Mayor Spencer. The motion was moved by Alderwoman from the 7th, seconded by Alderwoman from the 10th, and passed unanimously. - Appointments to the Locust Central Special Business District: Reappointments of Karen Drake, Jennifer Prushner, Michael Berkerman, and Dr. Byron Duval, and appointments of Courtney Mueller and Robert Malty were approved. Motion moved by Alderman from the 14th, seconded by Alderwoman from the 11th, and passed. Suspension of Rules – Introduction of Board Bills - Board Bill 170 (Alderman Narayan): Establishes a two-way stop sign near a school at Forest Avenue and Glades Avenue. Suspension passed 14-1. - Board Bill 171 (Alderwoman Sanye): Raises the minor purchase order limit from $500 to $2,500 for city departments. Supported by mayor, supply commissioner, board president, comptroller, and director of operations. Suspension passed. - Board Bill 172 (Alderman from the 9th): Would impose a pause on processing new data center applications until regulations are established. Alderman stated the pause would not affect current applications. Suspension failed 7-8. - Board Bill 173 (Alderman from the 14th): Directs installation of speed humps in the 14th ward. Suspension passed 13-2. - Board Bill 174 (Alderwoman Sanye): Appropriates $2.5 million from RAM settlement interest to support community development corporations (CDCs) facing financial crisis after the tornado and federal cuts. Alderwoman Sanye emphasized urgency, noting some CDCs may close by May. Suspension passed 11-4. First Reading of Board Bills - Board Bills 148–174 were read into the record, covering topics including opioid settlement funds, honorary street names, speed humps, public nuisance review board, mobile food vendor operations, impact assessments, TIF plans, forestry regulations, tornado recovery funds, clean energy board, stormwater grants, water infrastructure, CDC definition, and tax abatement. Co-sponsors were added for several bills. Second Reading and Committee Reports - Several bills were reported out of committees with do-pass recommendations, including Board Bill 25 (car rental operations at Lambert Airport), Board Bill 128 (Kingsbury Place CID), Board Bill 7 (Central West End South SBD), Board Bill 54 (charter amendment for special elections), Board Bill 137 (charter modernization), Board Bill 98 (parking revenue bonds), and multiple speed hump bills (81, 135, 139–144) and public safety bills (145, 146). Perfection Consent Calendar - Board Bills 121, 123, 129 were adopted as a consent calendar by voice vote, after Board Bills 122, 134 were removed by request, and 133 was moved to the regular perfection calendar. Perfection of Board Bills (Individual Votes) - Board Bill 126 (Short-term rental tax): Alderman from the 4th clarified the bill only imposes a 3% hotel tax on short-term rentals as approved by voters in 2004 (Prop S), separate from ongoing lawsuit over short-term rental regulations. Perfected by voice vote. - Board Bill 122 (TIF progress report): Alderwoman from the 12th requested a roll call, expressing opposition to TIFs. Perfected 13-1. - Board Bill 133 (FEMA crisis counseling): Alderman from the 14th requested a roll call, voting present. Alderwoman from the 12th (standing in for the sponsor) argued the $78,253.60 is needed for mental health services after the tornado. Perfected 13-1 (one present). - Board Bill 134 (Forestry regulations): Alderwoman from the 1st explained the bill clarifies abatement rules for occupied and non-occupied parcels. Several alders asked about reporting, salvage yard exemptions, health department authority, fine waiver discretion, and tax bills. Alderwoman from the 1st noted fine waivers are for correcting errors. The bill gained many co-sponsors and was perfected by voice vote. Third Reading and Final Passage - Board Bills 99 and 130 were passed on the consent calendar by voice vote (roll call: 13 aye). Resolutions - Resolution 239 (Board of Adjustments rules) referred to HUDs committee for hearing on February 24. - Resolution 240 (Supporting Bird City designation) referred to Health and Human Development committee. - Resolution 241 (Proposal to amend MUTCD for new street sign) referred to Public Infrastructure committee. - Resolution 242 (Naming pavilion in Loretta Hall Park after Ricardo "Ricky the Ruler" Dwanell Riley) adopted by voice vote. - Resolution 243 (Naming basketball court after Floyd Irons) adopted by voice vote. - Resolution 244 (Naming skating rink after former Alderwoman Tamika Hubbard) adopted after tributes to her work, including over $1.75 billion in development and projects like NGA, Webster School senior living, and Save A Lot. - Resolution 245 (Amending Board of Aldermen Rules) referred to Legislation and Rules committee. Announcements & Adjournment - Alderwoman from the 10th announced Mardi Gras weekend events (Mayor's Ball at City Hall, parade on Saturday) and noted proceeds from the ball will go to tornado recovery. - Alderwoman from the 7th noted a well-attended town hall on tornado recovery at Golden Record and requested a moment of silence for Sam, a murder victim in Tower Grove East who was a skating coach and restaurant team member. - The board adjourned until Friday, February 20, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

The Budget and Public Employees Committee met on February 12, 2026, to consider Board Bill 98, authorizing up to $5 million in parking revenue bonds for the acquisition and improvement of a surface parking lot at the corner of Compton and Olive in Midtown. The meeting also included approval of prior minutes and public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee voted unanimously (4-0) to approve the minutes from the February 4, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Alec Belcher (Ward 4, Dogtown resident) testified in opposition to Board Bill 98. He argued that new parking would prevent higher‑quality land uses such as commercial space, housing, or walkable destinations. He stated that 43% of Midtown households do not own a vehicle and that the area already has ample surface parking, as illustrated by a map showing numerous lots. He urged the board to reevaluate the bill. Discussion Items - Presentation by Treasurer Adam Lane: Lane explained that the Treasurer’s Office manages 8,000 on‑street metered spaces and 12 lots/garages. The $3.4 million purchase (with $877,000 in improvements) is financed through revenue bonds secured solely by parking revenues—no taxpayer dollars. The lot would create 143 spaces, with 58 reserved for Pappy’s Restaurant during business hours (8 a.m.–5 p.m.). The project includes a pedestrian access path to Harris‑Stowe State University’s bookstore and is designed to eventually support a residential‑above‑parking development. Lane emphasized that public parking helps reduce underutilized private lots and supports economic growth, especially for events at the nearby Chaifetz Arena and the Locust Business District. He noted letters of support from Pappy’s and neighborhood associations. - Committee Questions: - Vice Chair Browning questioned the financial viability: the cost per space (approximately $23,776 based on $3.4 million / 143 spaces) far exceeds typical surface‑lot costs ($1,500–$3,500 per space). He expressed concern that the deal effectively pays garage‑level prices for a surface lot and that revenue projections were unclear. He also noted that giving 58 reserved spaces to the seller reduced the city’s net new public spaces to 85. He asked for a detailed financial analysis and indicated he would vote present. - Alderwoman Velasquez asked whether this use aligns with the neighborhood’s long‑term development plans. Treasurer Lane and Alderwoman Keys responded that the lot is intended to support existing businesses and future mixed‑use development, and that workforce housing and student housing are being considered. They noted that the city’s ownership allows flexibility to redevelop the site later. - Alderman Devotee inquired about pedestrian safety on Olive Street, which is a wide, high‑speed road. Lane agreed that traffic calming measures might be needed. Devotee also asked about other potential buyers; Alderwoman Keys stated that the only alternative offers appeared to be for a gas station, which she opposes for the community. - The Chair (Alderman Aldrick) noted that the city’s ownership provides better control over future development and supports the bill, citing his own bill (Board Bill 44/2024) requiring safety improvements on surface lots. Key Outcomes - Motion and Vote: A motion to pass Board Bill 98 with a “do pass” recommendation was made and seconded. The roll call resulted in 3 ayes (Alderwoman Son, Alderwoman Velasquez, Alderman Devotee), 1 present (Vice Chair Browning), and 0 nays. The bill was reported favorably to the full Board of Aldermen. - Next Steps: Board Bill 98 will proceed to the full Board for further consideration. Treasurer Lane committed to sharing additional financial data with Vice Chair Browning.

The Transportation and Commerce Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on February 10, 2026, to consider Board Bill 25, which addresses peer-to-peer ground transportation operators at Lambert International Airport. The committee reviewed a committee substitute, heard public testimony, and adopted amendments before voting to pass the bill with a due pass recommendation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes from December 15, 2025 (5-0 vote). Public Comments & Testimony - Airport Director Rhonda Ham-Nebrook (via letter): The airport director submitted a letter opposing Board Bill 25, citing concerns about the timing during critical airline negotiations, contradictions with existing ordinances, and the need for a holistic approach to ground transportation regulation. She noted that the bill would lock in a regulatory scheme before the airport could evaluate its pilot program and requested the committee not recommend passage. - Don LeFave (President, American Car Rental Association): Testified in strong support of Board Bill 25, arguing that peer-to-peer platforms like Turo should operate under the same rules as traditional rental car companies to ensure fairness, equal customer access, and protection of city revenue. He stated that the current permit is a step in the right direction but that legislation is needed to enshrine standards into law. Discussion Items - Committee Substitute and Amendments: Chair Cohn introduced a committee substitute for Board Bill 25, largely based on a floor substitute previously provided by airport staff. He then proposed three amendments to add new whereas clauses to address concerns raised by the airport director: 1. Clarifying that the city has authority under existing ordinances (69382 and 71242) to designate areas for ground transportation operators. 2. Acknowledging that a holistic ground transportation ordinance is needed and expected within two years, but that the current bill addresses a specific gap. 3. Recognizing that the airport authority and director already entered into a no-bid contract with a peer-to-peer operator in August 2025, confirming the need for regulations. - Committee Questions: Alderman Schweitzer and Alderman Cox and Twee asked about designated areas, fee structures, and the relationship to future holistic ordinances. Chair Cohn confirmed that the fees in the bill mirror the existing contract and that specific dollar amounts are already present in current ordinances. He also noted that the airport aims to include peer-to-peer operators in a future comprehensive update. Key Outcomes - Amendments Adopted: The committee unanimously adopted the three whereas clause amendments to the committee substitute (5-0). - Board Bill 25 Passed: The committee voted 5-0 to pass Board Bill 25 committee substitute as amended with a due pass recommendation to the full Board of Aldermen. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned after the vote.

The Housing Urban Development and Zoning Committee met on February 10, 2026, with Chair Clark Hubbard presiding. The meeting began with a roll call showing five members present, and the committee unanimously approved the minutes from February 3, 2026, by a 5-0 vote. The primary agenda items were Board Bill 147, renewing the Central West and South Special Business District (SBD), and Board Bill 128, creating the Kingsbury Place HOA's Capital Improvement Tornado Recovery Community Improvement District (CID). Both bills were passed with amendments and recommended for full city council approval. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from Tuesday, February 3, 2026, were approved by a motion from Alderman Browning, seconded by Alderman McCone, with all five present members voting aye. Discussion Items Board Bill 147 – Central West and South SBD Renewal - Sponsor: Alderman Browning. An amendment to move the renewal to the August ballot was introduced and adopted by a vote of 7-0. - Presenters: Bill Keeling (resident and SBD board member) and Matt McBride (legal counsel). Mr. Keeling described the SBD's flat revenues and a $7,000 tax cap per property that creates disparate taxation and legal concerns. Removing the cap is projected to increase revenue by approximately $100,000 annually, with the possibility of rolling back the tax rate. Funds primarily support public safety (including the Central West End Neighborhood Security Initiative), homeless outreach (including those discharged from nearby hospitals), and beautification. The amendment also removes the 80% spending requirement for security, allowing greater flexibility for outreach and other projects. - Committee Questions: Vice Chair Saye inquired about the most recent annual report, which is delayed but expected within two weeks. Further questions addressed the projected revenue increase and potential tax rate adjustments. Mr. Keeling noted his own building would see more than a doubling of the tax due to the cap removal. - Outcome: After the amendment passed, the committee voted unanimously to pass Board Bill 147 as amended with a due pass recommendation. Board Bill 128 – Kingsbury Place Tornado Recovery CID - Sponsor: Alderwoman Clark Hubbard. The fiscal note amendment was adopted by voice vote. - Presenters: Multiple residents of Kingsbury Place spoke: Bill Danius, Jamal Seward, Steve Stogel, Marin Fiord, and legal counsel Scott Riley. The tornado occurred on May 16, 2025 (270 days prior), causing severe damage to the private street's trees (175 lost), infrastructure, and homes. 49 of 61 households (roughly 80-85%) support the CID, with three not voting. The residents are not asking for city funds; instead, they will self-assess through liens on their properties. The project is structured in three tiers: Tier 1 ($2 million) replaces water and sewer lines originally built in 1902/1906; Tier 2 addresses deferred maintenance (road, curbs, sidewalks); Tier 3 restores tornado damage (gas lamps, trees, etc.). Total project cost not to exceed $6 million, financed through a local bank ($4 million) and an SBA disaster loan ($2 million). Construction could begin as early as March 2026 and be completed within 18 months. - Committee Questions: Alderman Aldridge asked why the scope focused on infrastructure rather than individual home repairs. Speakers explained that individual home repairs are being handled separately, and the CID focuses on shared infrastructure to ensure long-term resilience. Mr. Stogel noted that the street has water main breaks yearly and that the sewer is unlined brick from 1906. The committee members expressed strong support for the residents' self-help approach and the potential for this CID to serve as a model for other tornado-affected areas. - Public Comments & Testimony: No additional oral public comments were made, but one written testimony in opposition to Board Bill 128 was received (content not specified). - Outcome: The committee voted unanimously to pass Board Bill 128 out of committee with a due pass recommendation, moved by Alderwoman Clark Hubbard and seconded by Alderwoman Keys. Announcements - Chair Clark Hubbard announced that Mayor Spencer's STR Recovery office (STL Recovers) has extended the deadline for the personal property assistance program to February 28, 2026. Residents are encouraged to apply even if unsure of their needs. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved (5-0). - Board Bill 147 (SBD renewal) passed with amendment, due pass recommendation (unanimous). - Board Bill 128 (Kingsbury Place CID) passed with amendment, due pass recommendation (unanimous). - The committee adjourned by motion of Alderman Aldridge, seconded by Alderman Browning, with all members voting aye.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 10:00 AM (roll call completed by approximately 9:58 AM) with 14 members present, later reaching 15. The meeting opened with a prayer, roll call, and recognition of American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day. Key actions included passage of a resolution recognizing heart health, debate and final passage of Board Bill 87 as amended (expanding the Prop NS program), and introduction of several new board bills. The meeting adjourned after announcements of upcoming committee meetings. Consent Calendar - Board Bills for Perfection (Consent): Board Bill 99 (three-way stop at Shenandoah and Virginia Avenues) and Board Bill 130 (speed humps in the 9th ward) were adopted without objection. - Third Reading and Final Passage (Consent): Board Bills 114, 125, and 127 were approved unanimously (15 aye votes) on the consent calendar. - Courtesy Resolution Consent Calendar: The courtesy resolutions (including Resolution 236, 237, 238) were adopted en bloc after being moved by Alderwoman from the 10th. Resolution 236 was separately embanked (all members added as co-sponsors). Public Comments & Testimony - Sharita Rogers (Acting Clerk): Shared a personal testimony about losing her sister at age 33 to heart disease in 2008. She urged awareness and thanked the board for the resolution. - Mayor Kara Spencer: Delivered a proclamation declaring February 6, 2026, as Wear Red Day in St. Louis, standing in solidarity with heart health awareness. - Lana Stein Tribute: Alderwoman from the 10th requested a moment of silence for Lana Stein, a pillar of the Skinker DeBaliviere neighborhood and political historian, who recently passed away. - Honored Guest: Alderman Cone introduced Officer Burroughs of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, originally from London, England. Discussion Items - Resolution 236 – American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day: Sponsored by Alderman Aldrich and co-sponsored by 10 other members. The resolution cited statistics: heart disease causes 1 in 5 deaths in the U.S. (approx. 695,000 in 2021), someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds, and nearly 45% of women over 20 live with cardiovascular conditions. The resolution was embanked (all members added as co-sponsors) and adopted. - Board Bill 87 as amended – Prop NS Program Expansion: Sponsored by Alderman Aldrich, President Green, and others. The bill increases caps on bond proceeds per property, adjusts caps for inflation (CPI), and expands scope of work to include plumbing and interior demolition for the LRA’s property rehabilitation program. - Debate on Board Bill 87: - Alderwoman from the 12th (opposition): Criticized the lack of transparency in LRA and Prop NS, alleging that properties are sold to “good old boys” without redevelopment, that no invoices or before/after photos are required, and that the program lacks checks and balances. She voted “present” and pledged to push for reforms. - Alderman Aldrich (sponsor): Defended the bill as an incremental improvement, tying inflation adjustments to rising construction costs and expanding work scope to make homes more marketable. He acknowledged the program is not perfect but argued it will help return vacant brick homes to the market. - First Reading of Board Bills: Introduced, among others: Board Bill 138 (moratorium on non-municipal detention facilities until 2031, sponsored by Alderwoman Sonier); Board Bills 139-144 (speed humps in the 13th ward, sponsored by Alderwoman Boyd); Board Bill 145 (repealing ordinance 62579); Board Bill 146 (sheriff’s parking identification modernization); Board Bill 147 (Central West End/South Business District tax assessment amendment). - Appointment to Mental Health Board: Mayor’s appointment of Dr. Evan Ivana Burkett was sent to the Health and Human Development Committee. - Second Reading and Committee Reports: Several bills were reported out of committees, including Board Bill 119 (North Broadway redevelopment with 10-year tax abatement), Board Bill 121 (dissolving several TIF districts), Board Bill 122 (progress determination on TIF plans), Board Bill 123 (Lindell Boulevard redevelopment with up to 15-year abatement), Board Bill 129 (planned unit development for La Colonia Square), Board Bill 126 (short-term rental business license with 3% fee), Board Bill 133 (FEMA crisis counseling funds), and Board Bill 134 (vegetation/weed ordinance amendments). Key Outcomes - Resolution 236 adopted and embanked (all 15 members co-sponsoring) to recognize American Heart Month and National Wear Red Day. - Board Bill 87 as amended passed on third reading with a roll call vote of 13 ayes, 1 no (Alderwoman Boyd), and 1 present (Alderwoman from the 12th). - Consent bills (99, 130) were perfected and adopted without objection. - Consent third reading bills (114, 125, 127) were finally passed with 15 aye votes. - Mayor’s appointment to mental health board referred to the Health and Human Development Committee. - Committee meetings scheduled: HUDS (Feb 10, 11 AM), Public Safety (Feb 12, 2 PM), Public Infrastructure (Feb 11, 3:30 PM), Budget (Feb 11, 10 AM), Transportation and Commerce (Feb 10, 9 AM, location TBD), and Planning Commission (Feb 11, 6 PM) to discuss data center regulations. - Next board meeting: Friday, February 13, 2026, in the chambers.

The Health and Human Development Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on February 5, 2026, at 9:01 AM. Chair Boyd presided with Vice Chair Oldenberg, and Aldermen Sonier, Cox Antwi, and Thais present. The committee considered two board bills: BB134, clarifying overgrowth abatement notification procedures, and BB133, accepting a FEMA crisis counseling grant for tornado recovery. Both bills were passed out of committee with do pass recommendations. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Board Bill 134 (Alderman Ann Sweitzer): This bill amends a previously passed ordinance to clarify notification processes for overgrowth abatement on occupied versus non-occupied parcels. Alderman Sweitzer explained that occupied parcels receive a notification each time a problem is identified, while non-occupied parcels receive only one notification. The mayor's office, represented by Policy Advisor Caitlin Smith, expressed full support. Chair Boyd raised concerns about the city's own maintenance of Land Reutilization Authority (LRA) properties, noting that the city is not always meeting its obligations while holding private owners accountable. Alderman Sweitzer responded that the bill provides stronger enforcement tools for the Forestry Division, which should reduce the need for city-led abatement on private property. Chair Boyd was added as a co-sponsor. The bill was advanced with a motion to amend (4 ayes) and then a do pass recommendation. - Board Bill 133 (Alderman Boyd): This bill authorizes the Department of Health to accept and expend $78,253.66 from the FEMA Crisis Counseling Program (CCP) grant for mental health services following the May 16, 2025 tornado and the June 10, 2025 disaster declaration. The grant was awarded on October 23, 2025. Bo Richmond, Bureau Chief of Behavioral Health, provided a detailed overview. He noted that the tornado caused 5 fatalities and displaced thousands of residents. The grant funds training, marketing, printed resources, mileage reimbursement, and salaries. A formal training with 40 participants from 9 agencies (Bootheel Behavioral Health, BJC Behavioral Health, People's Health Center, Places for People, Queen of Peace, St. Louis City Department of Health, Freedom Community Center, InPower Institute, and Restorative Justice Movement) was held November 19-21, 2025. Weekly coordination calls and a Basecamp online tool are used. Outreach is conducted under the “Show Me Hope” brand. The grant has a 90-120 day immediate service period, with a potential nine-month regular service period still pending approval. Alderman Sonier praised the program and Alderman Cox Antwi confirmed the grant amount. The bill was amended to add all committee members as co-sponsors (4 ayes) and then passed with a do pass recommendation. Key Outcomes - Board Bill 134: Successfully amended to add Chair Boyd as co-sponsor (vote: 4-0). Passed out of committee with a do pass recommendation. - Board Bill 133: Successfully amended to add all committee members as co-sponsors (vote: 4-0). Passed out of committee with a do pass recommendation. - No other business was conducted. The meeting adjourned.