Public Meetings - St Louis, Missouri

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. The user-provided date is May 14, 2026. This summary uses the provided date. The committee met to approve minutes, consider two board bills, and receive a detailed presentation from the Water Division on its annual update and a proposed rate sufficiency study. The meeting included public testimony on the rate proposal. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the March 18, 2026 meeting were approved by a vote of 4-0. - Board Bill No. 2: An ordinance allowing the city to accept and appropriate funds for community water fluoridation equipment repair and replacement. Received a do pass recommendation unanimously (4-0). - Board Bill No. 11: An ordinance authorizing additional speed humps on a block in the 10th Ward. Received a do pass recommendation unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - John Kaufman (Consumers Council of Missouri): Thanked the committee for transparency. Announced that the Consumers Council has hired independent rate expert Mike Gorman and requested at least 60 days to review the Black & Veatch study. Stated that they will not recommend zero increase but may suggest a different approach. Expressed support for a cost-of-service study and emphasized the need for a permanent income-based assistance program, noting the current ARPA-funded program is temporary. - Claude Breckwold (Benton Park homeowner): Expressed horror at the condition of the infrastructure, noting that cast iron pipes are failing and that water and gas lines should be replaced together as Spire did. Criticized past band-aid fixes and called for a complete rebuild. - Cheryl Glass (resident): Strongly criticized the rate structure, alleging that Black & Veatch has controlled the water division since 1958 and created a billing system that unfairly burdens unmetered residential customers. Claimed that large commercial users (e.g., Anheuser-Busch) and MSD (as a major customer) contribute little to infrastructure costs. Called for a comprehensive audit and removal of Black & Veatch. Questioned the lack of metering and argued that the proposed rate increase would further harm residents. Discussion Items - Water Division Annual Update (Director Niraj Patel and Deputy Commissioner Spencer Gould): - Presented the annual update required by Ordinance 17168, covering projects completed and in progress. Highlighted that the water division is in an "existential crisis" with revenues insufficient to cover expenses for seven years. The system is reactive, with $12 million in emergency projects. Emphasized the need to shift from reactive to proactive capital renewal. - Key statistics: 47 billion gallons of water produced annually; 80,000 unmetered residential accounts, 12,000 metered accounts; about 40% of water is non-revenue (leaks, city use). The current rate is less than 1% of median household income (EPA threshold: 2.5%). - Addressed misinformation: rate increases go to infrastructure and operations, not salaries; residential customers are not subsidizing large users; unmetered customers pay about $6 more per month for unlimited water. - Warning of consequences of inaction: examples of system failures in other cities (Michigan, Jackson, Mississippi, Great Lakes Water Authority). - Alderwoman Clark Hubbard noted the aged infrastructure (Chain of Rocks plant built 1894, filter plant 1913) and the risk of state or federal takeover if standards are not met. - Alderman Devoty asked about the term "CCF" (hundreds of cubic feet, 748 gallons). - Alderwoman Cox and Twee asked about metered vs. unmetered conversion costs: the property owner must pay for plumbing to install a meter box; the water division installs the meter at no cost. - Rate Sufficiency Study Presentation (Black & Veatch consultants Prabakumar and Alberto Morales): - Presented a six-year financial plan (FY2027-2032) to address a $442 million capital improvement program (CIP). Key cost drivers: significant capital needs (treatment plants, transmission/distribution), rising O&M costs (3.2% annual increase), establishment of an O&M reserve (90 days of operating expenses), and a rate stabilization reserve to smooth future rate increases. - Proposed rate increases: 40% in FY2027, then 6% in FY2028, 6% in FY2029, 6% in FY2030, 5% in FY2031, and 5% in FY2032. This would raise the average unmetered residential bill from $42.65 to $59.17 in FY2027, reaching $77.27 by FY2032. - Financing strategy: combination of revenue bonds (majority), state revolving fund loans, and cash financing. Debt service would rise from $2.4 million to $23.2 million over the period. - Reserves: O&M reserve would build from $0 to 90 days (about $19-22 million). Rate stabilization reserve would grow to $19.8 million by FY2030, then be drawn down to $7 million by FY2032 to avoid double-digit rate spikes. - Key performance metrics: debt service coverage ratio targeted at 1.5x, achieved in all years. - In response to Alderman Devoty's question, Director Patel noted that the study assumes $60 million in RAMS funding; if less, the impact would be beyond the six-year horizon. - Alderwoman Cox and Twee asked about the reason for the 40% front-loading: to build reserves, maintain coverage, and start the capital program. The alternative of spreading increases would leave the system at risk of failure. - The committee discussed the upcoming cost-of-service study (not done since 1958), which will examine class allocation and rate fairness. - Alderwoman Schweitzer questioned the jump from a 4% recommended increase in 2020 to 40% now. Director Patel explained that the previous study was based on pre-COVID data and a smaller CIP; inflationary pressures (chemical costs tripled from $5M to $15M) and accumulated deferred maintenance led to the larger need. Key Outcomes - Board Bill No. 2 and Board Bill No. 11 received do pass recommendations and will proceed to the full Board of Aldermen. - The committee heard the Water Division's annual update and the rate sufficiency study. No formal vote was taken on the rate proposal. - The committee acknowledged that a board bill for the rate increase will be introduced later, providing additional opportunities for public comment. - Public testimony was received; the committee will consider written testimony and further input. - The next steps include potential independent review by the Consumers Council of Missouri and continued community engagement.

The Health and Human Development Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen met on May 14, 2026, at 9:04 a.m. to consider appointments to several city boards and commissions. The meeting included approval of prior meeting minutes, three successful appointments, and one no-show for a vacant position. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the Thursday, February 26, 2026, meeting. Voting aye: Alderwoman Highest, Vice Chair Odenberg, Alderwoman Sonyer, Alderwoman Cox Antwick, and Chair Boyd. Three aye votes were recorded (with three members present). Discussion Items - Appointment to Development Disabilities Resource Commission: Michael Fitzgerald was interviewed and confirmed. He stated he has been a St. Louis resident for 46 years, has a background in social work, budget management, and grant making. He expressed a desire to serve the community and bring his experience to the commission. Committee members voiced support, citing his qualifications and community passion. - Appointment to Mental Health Board: Janice Thomas, a second-term nominee, appeared before the committee. She described her background in healthcare operations and her interest in supporting systems that help many people. Committee members thanked her for her continued service and commitment. The appointment was confirmed. - Appointment to Clean Energy Development Board: Jim Malley was interviewed. He noted his extensive experience in economic development, downtown revitalization, and work with PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) programs across Missouri and 26 states. He emphasized how PACE can unlock capital for commercial properties and support St. Louis downtown revitalization. Committee members praised his expertise and commitment to the city. The appointment was confirmed. - No Show for Senior Citizen Service Fund Board: A nominee named Mr. Wilson was not present online, and no alternate was available. The item was deferred without action. Key Outcomes - Votes: All three present appointees (Michael Fitzgerald, Janice Thomas, Jim Malley) were unanimously approved by voice vote with no objections. The motion to accept each was moved and seconded; previous roll call was waived by unanimous consent. - Absentees: Alderman Sonyer and Alderwoman Tyus were excused from the meeting. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned without further business.

The Budget and Public Employees Committee met on May 11, 2026, to review the FY27 fiscal year budgets for the Water Division, Collector of Revenue, Sheriff’s Office, Medical Examiner, and Information Technology Service Agency (ITSA). The hearing was chaired by Chair Alger, with Alderwoman Sonier, Vice Chair Browning, Alderwoman Velasquez, and Alderman Devotee present. The meeting lasted from approximately 9:00 AM to after 1:30 PM, including one recess. Key themes included the Water Division’s unsustainable budget and the urgent need for rate increases, the Collector of Revenue’s efficient operations, the Sheriff’s Office’s request for additional positions and equipment, the Medical Examiner’s stable budget, and ITSA’s modernisation efforts. Discussion Items Water Division (Director Nirj Patel, Fiscal Manager Perla Burke, Special Assistant Spencer Gould): The director presented a detailed overview of the water utility’s enterprise fund operations, including 1,300 miles of water mains, 129 million gallons per day of production, and a $84.2 million balanced budget for FY27. The budget is balanced only by deferring $11.4 million in major projects, $3.8 million in non-capital equipment, and underfunding treatment chemicals (budgeted $9.6 million against anticipated $15.5 million) and electrical power. The reserve fund, previously built to $35–40 million, is fully depleted after seven years of deficits. The department projects $700 million in capital needs. A rate sufficiency study recommends a 40% initial increase followed by 6% increases for three years and 5% for two years to cover operations and a $440 million capital improvement program. The division has reduced vacancy from 26% to 23%, but expects $8.9 million in vacant position salary savings to partially offset shortfalls. The delinquent water balance peaked at $14.5 million in February 2026, currently declining. Only $300,000 of the $1 million ARPA assistance program has been disbursed. The director stated the budget is unsustainable and will require additional revenue, such as Rams settlement funds, to avoid cuts to emergency repairs. Alderman Devotee noted that emergency water main breaks cost over $20,000 each. A further discussion on the rate study is scheduled for May 13, 2026, before the Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee. Collector of Revenue (Collector Greg Daly, Chief of Staff Mark Stoff, Assistant Collector Rachel McClure): The office is a fee-based county office with a fiscal year starting in March 2026. Total collections in FY ending March 1, 2026, were $978 million, including $545 million in real estate and personal property, $341 million in earnings/payroll, $72 million in water, and $16 million in trash fees. Excess commissions after operating expenses are estimated at $19.2 million for FY27. The office employs 86 full-time staff and 4 part-time, with starting salary rising to $42,848 after the new pay bill. The Real Estate Tax Assistance Fund (RETAF), a partnership, has saved 21 owner-occupied homes from tax sales, preserving $7 million in home equity. The water utility assistance program, administered with the Water Division and United Way, provides up to $500 per delinquent account. The collector is working to expand the Pay It St. Louis online payment platform to other city departments. Sheriff’s Office (Interim Sheriff John Hayden, Chief of Staff Jack Giesekee, Under Sheriff Colonel Yosef Yascherwallet): The FY27 budget includes a request for one additional full-time cashier due to a statutory transfer of fee collection from the circuit clerk. The most significant increase is in capital leases, rising from $160,000 to $307,500, attributable to a new five-year contract for Axon tasers (first installment $107,150) renegotiated from a previous $500,000 upfront commitment. The office is 31 deputies short, and overtime costs for hospital details have increased; an additional $50,000 is requested in overtime. The relationship with the CJC regarding hospital details is described as working, with the sheriff intending to present options for more efficient coverage, such as using hospital wards or fully staffing the infirmary. The office has 139 authorized deputy positions with 121 filled; sergeants and captains are also short. Medical Examiner (Director of Operations Tara Rick, Assistant Supervisor Jason Hutchins): The budget is driven by three large contracts: professional services for board-certified forensic pathologists, histology/toxicology (with St. Louis County laboratory), and livery/mortuary services ($450,000). The histology/toxicology request was lowered from $600,000 to $350,000 based on current spend. An increase in professional services from $10,000 to $87,124 covers a security guard from American Security, implemented in October 2025. The office does not have any vacancies. Approximately 3,300 cases were investigated in FY26, with over 1,100 autopsies. Staffing includes 23 full-time and 7 part-time. Alderwoman Sonier and Alderman Devotee commended the office’s work. ITSA (Director Cindy Reardon, Development Head Walker Hamilton): The FY27 budget includes $54.5 for personnel services, with three new data analytics positions transitioning from ARPA/tornado recovery funding to permanent posts as part of the city’s new CityStat program. A reorganization of network support services creates middle management positions to provide growth opportunities. Non-personnel highlights include completing Windows 11 upgrades, upgrading CityWorks (citizen service request software) to cloud-based Trimble Unity, and planning to decommission the mainframe in FY27 as remaining systems (earnings tax, license collector) have moved off. The Regis line item increased from $70,000 to $230,000 to contract for network support after losing a network services manager. ITSA recently launched the MyCity portal for citizen transactions and added online payment options for permits. Key Outcomes The committee reviewed all department budgets but took no formal votes during this hearing. The meeting concluded with adjournment at approximately 1:35 PM. The Water Division presentation highlighted an unsustainable budget that will require either a rate increase or additional city funding to maintain services; the director noted that if no additional revenue arrives, the division may have to decide which water main breaks to leave un-repaired. The Sheriff’s Office will bring options for more efficient hospital details to the Board of Aldermen. ITSA will decommission the city’s mainframe in FY27 and continue migrating to cloud-based platforms. The next budget hearing is scheduled for May 12, 2026, at 9:30 AM, covering CEMA, BPS, Circuit Attorney’s Office, Neighborhood Stabilization, and CSB.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened on May 7, 2026, with 10 members present, establishing a quorum. The meeting began with an opening reflection for ALS Awareness Month, followed by the introduction of resolutions, recognition of a retiring STL TV engineer, consideration of mayoral appointments, and perfection of a bill providing a one-time $1,000 lump sum payment to classified civil service employees. Consent Calendar - The courtesy resolution consent calendar was adopted unanimously. - The meeting minutes from Friday, May 1, 2026, were approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were heard during this meeting. Discussion Items - Opening Reflection: Sandra Marks, senior VP at Claiko Construction and ALS Association leadership committee member, spoke about ALS Awareness Month, honoring her late husband Cozy William Marks III and urging support for the ALS Association. She noted the ALS Walk in Forest Park on June 27 and the ALS Game on Gala in November. - Resolution 14 – Honoring Kenneth Roberts: The board recognized Kenneth Roberts, video engineer at STL TV, on his retirement after 33 years of service. The resolution highlighted his role in advancing television technology, including a solo operational system for broadcasting committee meetings and a 2022 upgrade enabling virtual participation. Aldermen shared personal remarks, and the resolution was adopted by voice vote. - Honored Guests: Alderwoman from the 11th Ward celebrated the opening of the second block of Veterans Tiny Homes on Aldyne Avenue and shared a personal birthday story about her childhood in Steele, Missouri, emphasizing oral tradition and family. Alderman from the 14th Ward introduced Ms. Leo, a 14th Ward resident volunteering in tornado recovery efforts. - Mayoral Appointments and Referrals: Mayor Carrie Spencer submitted several appointments to various boards. Most were referred to appropriate committees (Public Safety, Health, Transportation and Commerce, Legislation) by voice vote; the appointment to the 2019 Grand Center Community Improvement District and Cherokee Street Community Improvement District were approved directly. - Board Bill No. 9 – Civil Service Employee Compensation: This ordinance, introduced by Alderman Aldrich and co-sponsored by several aldermen, provides a one-time $1,000 lump sum payment to classified civil service employees using funds from the FY26 budget. A floor substitute was adopted to ensure alignment with existing ordinance language. Alderman from the 14th explained the bill is a fast-tracked appreciation bonus, with a separate 3% pay study bill expected from the FY27 budget. Alderwoman from the 12th raised concerns about part-time/per performance employees not being included, particularly in forestry, and noted the need for full-time positions. The board perfected the floor substitute with 12 ayes and 1 present. - Announcements: Upcoming committee meetings were listed, including a public budget hearing on May 16 at Herbert Hoover Boys and Girls Club. Alderwoman from the 11th invited the board to a tornado commemorative event on May 23 and a family fishing derby on May 23 at Fairground Park. Alderman from the 14th wished the Alderwoman from the 11th a happy birthday and all mothers a happy Mother's Day. Key Outcomes - Resolution 14: Adopted to honor Kenneth Roberts for his 33 years of service at STL TV. - Mayoral Appointments: The appointment of Dr. Mark Mullen to the Detention Facility Oversight Board was referred to the Public Safety Committee. The reappointment of Carl Wilson to the Senior Citizen Service Fund Board was referred to the Health Committee. The appointment of Stephanie Coran to the 2019 Grand Center Community Improvement District was approved. The reappointment of Janice Thomas to the Mental Health Board was referred to the Health Committee. The appointment of Margaret McDonald to the Airport Arts Advisory Committee was referred to the Transportation and Commerce Committee. The appointment of Jim Mao to the Clean Energy Development Board was referred to the Health Committee after initial motion withdrawal. The reappointment of K Vy Rosani to the Cherokee Street Community Improvement District was approved. - Board Bill No. 9: Perfected (passed second reading) with a floor substitute by a vote of 12 ayes, 1 present (Alderwoman from the 12th). The bill will proceed to third reading and final passage. - Necessary Absences: Alderwoman from the 5th and the President of the Board were excused for necessary absence. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned until Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Board of Aldermen Chambers.

This meeting of the Budget and Public Employees Committee was convened to hear presentations and discuss the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget for the city of St. Louis. The committee, chaired by Alderman Aldrich, heard from the Mayor's Office, the Board of Aldermen, the Comptroller's Office, Recorder of Deeds, the Planning and Urban Design Agency, and the Director of Public Safety. No formal votes were taken on the budget; the hearings are part of an ongoing review process. Consent Calendar - No routine approvals or unanimous actions were considered. The committee noted there were no board bills or resolutions for review aside from budget bill number one, which was held. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during this hearing. Discussion Items Mayor's Office (Mayor Tishaura O. Jones) - The Mayor presented the FY2027 budget, noting a 0.2% overall increase to $1.41 billion, which she described as "modest" and not keeping up with inflation. She emphasized the budget is responsible and invests in staff, basic services, and public safety. - Key investments include: a 3% raise for most city employees and a $1,000 lump sum payment; $18 million for pay adjustments to bring underpaid staff within 5% of regional minimum; 7% raises for uniformed police and firefighters; $8.8 million for the Office of Violence Prevention (a slight increase); $2 million for Code Blue homeless services (a new general fund investment); $6.7 million for affordable housing from local use tax; $1 million each for right to counsel, tiny homes, and summer youth programming (added via amendments); $4 million increase for derelict building demolition (total $9.3 million); $2 million additional for forestry; $6.8 million for road and bridge projects; $10.7 million for ward-specific improvements; $1.3 million increase for snow and salt removal; and $500,000 for street sign inventory. - The Mayor stated the budget maintains a strong general fund reserve of $154.1 million (24% of operating budget). Revenues are stabilizing, with general fund growth projected at 1.7%. - Committee members praised the Mayor's collaboration and asked about staffing, capital improvement fund reduction (down 17.9%), declining grant funding, and the Office of Recovery (funded via RAM settlement dollars). The Mayor clarified that the office of recovery staff appear in the mayor's office budget but are paid from RAM funds, not general revenue. - Vice Chair Browning commended the Mayor for standing up to the Board of Police Commissioners regarding improper budget transfers. Alderman Devotee asked about long-term pay competitiveness; the Mayor responded that increasing the tax base through population growth is essential. Alderwoman Velasquez inquired about capital funds and grant reductions; the Mayor deferred to the budget director but noted federal disinvestment. Board of Aldermen (Acting President Shane Cohn) - Acting President Cohn presented a largely flat budget of $5,538,498, a $45,000 increase from FY2026. The budget supports 51 FTEs (50 currently filled) and includes a new $25,000 legal services contingency fund (mandated by ordinance). Salaries for regular employees increased to $3,670,809 from $3,598,210. - The Board's legislative accomplishments during FY26 included 175 board bills introduced, over 120 passed, including tornado relief, affordable housing reforms (raising occupancy limits, reducing lot size, legalizing ADUs), and Prop N S program improvements. - Committee members noted the budget is decreasing as a percentage of the total city budget. Alderwoman Sanyer asked about phones and landlines; Cohn said landlines were installed and cell phones are still under discussion. Alderman Browning raised the issue of aldermanic salaries not keeping pace with inflation; Cohn noted that pay increases require a board bill and cannot take effect until after the next election. He also discussed a potential constituent management software platform that was not fully funded (requested $126,000, received $90,000). Comptroller's Office (Comptroller Donna Baringer) - Comptroller Baringer highlighted her office's role as a watchdog over city finances. Modernization efforts include implementing Oracle for contract setup (now 7 business days) and invoice payments (1.5 days), and moving toward electronic payments (ACH) to save $100,000/year in check mailing costs. She also noted the office helped document $7.5 million in qualifying expenditures to secure a $15 million state demolition grant. - Deputy Comptroller Jason Fletcher presented the budget: $19.3 million for all funds, a 2% increase ($386,000) from FY2026. Staffing reduced from 118 to 113 FTEs (net reduction of 5 due to outsourcing armed security at Gateway Transportation Center). Current vacancies: 31 (26 after removing security guards). The increase is largely due to salary adjustments and a $213,000 contractual services increase for security. - Committee members asked about the municipal garage (revenue goes to general fund, garage is deteriorating), TIFF districts (180 currently, expected to decline by 50% in 7 years), and the need for competitive salaries. Comptroller Baringer emphasized that civil service employees have lower pay but strong benefits, and noted that health care costs rose 38%, impacting the budget. She also discussed improving revenue collection, such as tracking 50-50 sidewalk payments. Recorder of Deeds (Michael Butler) - Recorder Butler presented a budget of $3.4 million, staying within allocation. The office has 33 FTEs with no vacancies for years. Revenue increased 50% over eight years (from $2.6 million to $3.9 million), while spending decreased. The office gave away 2,500 free documents to tornado victims. Butler negotiated a 25% reduction in software costs (from $235,000 to $180,000). He is restoring an information systems administrator position by reducing a supervisor position, and upgrading clerk positions for career mobility. - Committee members praised the office's efficiency and customer service. Butler attributed success to simplifying tasks, investing in technology, and ensuring competitive pay (though limited by civil service rules). He noted this is his last budget hearing before leaving office. Planning and Urban Design Agency (Executive Director Don Roe) - Director Roe presented the agency's work with 27 employees (none funded by ARPA). Budget sources include EcoDevo, general revenue, and CDBG. The budget is essentially flat. Key projects include: the Strategic Land Use Plan (updated), Sustainability and Climate Plan, Transportation Mobility Plan (first citywide since 1948), a comprehensive zoning overhaul (aiming for 2027 adoption), and neighborhood planning (multiple areas underway). The Cultural Resources Office reviews building permits and demolition requests; staff have worked to resolve issues before they go to the Preservation Board, reducing hearings. - Committee members asked about staff burnout and salaries. Roe noted that top planners recently received raises but may still be underpaid compared to SLDC (non-civil service). He emphasized the value of conferences for professional development. Alderman Browning raised concerns about workload; Roe acknowledged they are careful not to overburden staff. Questions were also asked about the EcoDevo subsidy to SLDC (used for neighborhood implementation managers), and about historic district standards (a consultant recently analyzed codes to produce clearer guidelines). Department of Public Safety (Director Sean Dace) - Director Dace oversees eight divisions (Building, CEMA, Civilian Oversight, Corrections, Excise, Fire, Neighborhood Stabilization, Office of Violence Prevention) with over 1,000 employees. The FY27 budget request is largely unchanged. Key proposals: fund an executive assistant 2 position (previously ARPA); continue PSAP public safety answering point (remaining $12 million identified from ARPA capital, GO bonds, and EcoDevo); fund Prop S (anti-violence youth programs) and Prop P (youth jobs); and fund an executive director for the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC) through grants. - Accomplishments include weekly cross-divisional meetings, launching Code Blue winter weather unified command, hiring new commissioners for CEMA, Corrections, and OVP, promoting staff, hiring a safety officer, and modernizing building permits (online portal) and payments (PayIt system). 50 fire promotions made, including six Black female captains. The building division is undergoing an audit; Director Dace emphasized finding a strong building commissioner to address corruption and improve customer service. He also noted that the PSAP project is on track for late 2027 with full funding identified. - Committee members asked about CEMA's role in disaster response; Dace said they serve as a resource facilitator. They also discussed building division challenges, including vacancy and the need for better collection of fines/fees. Alderwoman Velasquez inquired about the impact of a CJCC director; Dace explained it would help coordinate criminal justice agencies and address mental health needs of detainees. Key Outcomes - No final votes or decisions were made on the FY2027 budget. The committee will continue hearings with individual department presentations over the following days. Committee members expressed interest in potential amendments, particularly regarding salaries, revenue collection, and building division improvements. The meeting adjourned with a motion, and the next hearing is scheduled for May 7, 2026, at 9:30 AM.

The St. Louis Poet Laureate Task Force convened at 4:25 PM on Monday, May 4, 2026 (transcript date; the meeting is recorded as occurring on May 6, 2026) and adjourned at 4:38 PM. The meeting focused on onboarding two new members, sharing backgrounds, and setting preliminary goals for revising the ordinance to secure funding and expand the task force's scope. Discussion Items - Roll Call & Minutes Approval: Chair Mick called the meeting to order and roll call was taken. The minutes from January 12th were not approved because new members Kyle Brant Lubert and Imani Wentz were not on the task force at that time. - New Member Introductions: - Kyle Brant Lubert (they/she pronouns) introduced themselves as an integrative mental health provider, community arts organizer, and multidisciplinary artist. They run Tiny Postcards Counseling and Creative Arts in Dutchtown and host a poetry open mic at The Heavy Anchor. They expressed excitement to help make support for the poet laureate role more robust. - Imani Wentz introduced herself as a lifelong writer, storyteller, and owner/founder of Noir Bookshop on Cherokee Street. She focuses on eradicating book deserts and promoting DIY publishing and literacy. She expressed interest in deepening the community's connection with the poet laureate, Patia. - Returning Member Reflections: Pam Garvey, a poet and teacher at St. Louis Community College, shared that the poet laureate position was created in response to Ferguson and that the task force seeks to provide more support than in the past, especially given the lack of a dedicated budget. She emphasized building connections to support the current poet laureate. - Future Plans: Chair Mick announced plans to revise the ordinance to address funding and expand the task force's scope. Drafting will begin via work streams in the coming months, with collective discussions in future meetings. - Meeting Schedule: The group confirmed first Mondays at 4:00 PM as the regular meeting time. The next meeting is scheduled for June. Member Nikki Smith noted she cannot attend the next meeting. Key Outcomes - New members Kyle Brant Lubert and Imani Wentz were formally welcomed to the task force. - The task force will begin drafting ordinance revisions to include budget language and expanded authority. - Chair Mick will reach out individually to returning and new members to discuss work streams. - Members must submit bios, photos, and mailing addresses to Christine for the task force website. - The meeting adjourned at 4:38 PM.

The Personal Administration Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened on May 6, 2026. (Note: The raw transcript of the meeting dates the proceedings to Thursday, April 30th, 2026, at 11:03 AM, creating a discrepancy with the supplied meeting date of May 6, 2026). The committee approved meeting minutes, considered renovations to board offices, and handled a leadership transition. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the meeting minutes from Thursday, April 23, 2026. The motion was made by the Alderman from the 14th Ward (Alderman Aldridge) and seconded by the Alderwoman from the 10th Ward (Alderwoman Clark Hubbard), passing with three aye votes (Cone, Clark Hubbard, Aldridge). Discussion Items - Board of Aldermen Renovations (Rooms 232 and 234): Deputy Chief of Staff Christina Grassio presented a proposal to use remaining Fiscal Year 26 funds for furniture and carpet replacement along with asbestos remediation in Room 232 (the President's Office/Policy Suite) and the office portion of Room 234. - Budget: Bids for the work totaled slightly under $67,000. Grassio successfully requested approval for up to $70,000 to cover potential incidentals (such as missing pencil drawers on desks) without needing to return to the committee for a separate vote. - Timeline: Purchases will be made immediately, but the physical work will begin in mid-July during the Board’s summer recess to minimize disruption to staff. The goal is to have the project completed before the Board returns. - Staff Recommendations: Alderman Cone requested that a formal inventory of furnishings and contents be conducted during the move-out process, citing lessons learned from previous renovations. Alderman Aldridge commended Grassio for the successful execution of a similar renovation project in Room 230 the prior year. Key Outcomes - Unanimous Approval of Renovation Funding: The committee voted unanimously (3 ayes) to approve up to $70,000 for the renovations in Rooms 232 and 234. The motion was made by the Alderman from the 14th Ward (Alderman Aldridge) and seconded by the Alderwoman from the 10th Ward (Alderwoman Clark Hubbard). - Leadership Transition: Alderman Cone announced that she would assume the role of Acting President of the Board of Aldermen effective at 5:00 PM that day. The committee granted an excused absence for outgoing President Green. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following a motion by the Alderman from the 14th Ward, seconded by the Alderwoman from the 10th Ward.

Note: The meeting transcript indicates April 28, 2026, but the provided metadata specifies May 1, 2026. This summary uses May 1, 2026 as instructed. The Board of Estimate Apportionment (ENA) met to consider and vote on the proposed Fiscal Year 2027 annual operating plan and personnel schedules for the City of St. Louis. The board consisted of Mayor Spencer, Comptroller Baringer, and President Green. Budget Director Paul Payne presented four amendments to the proposed budget. After discussion and separate votes on the amendments, the board approved the amended budget and forwarded it to the Board of Aldermen for further deliberation and public input. Discussion Items - Budget Amendments: Director Payne introduced four amendment packages totaling an increase of $4,050,000 across all funds. Amendments 1A and 1B reallocated $1,025,000 from the Health Care Trust Fund to support the health division's intimate medical care unit, freeing up excess use tax funds for the Department of Human Services' right to counsel program. Amendment 2 allocated $1,000,000 from the public safety sales tax (use tax) to SLATE for summer youth jobs. Amendment 3 allocated $1,000,000 from available ARPA interest funds for the tiny homes program. Amendment 4 added five positions to the Forestry Division (two construction equipment operators, two heavy equipment operators, and one government services analyst), offset by reductions in seasonal employees and contractual services, resulting in net zero change in the general fund. - Mayor Spencer expressed support for the amendments, highlighting priorities such as $2 million for Code Blue emergency shelter (a historic first), right to counsel, tiny homes, and forestry improvements. She noted that the budget stabilizes revenues, implements pay raises (up to 45% for some underpaid workers, 3% for most others, and 7% for uniformed police and firefighters), increases funding for the City Emergency Management Agency ($300,000), maintains over $8 million for the Office of Violence Prevention, and allocates $4 million additional for demolition of derelict buildings (total $9.3 million) and $10.7 million for ward-specific improvements. She thanked staff and emphasized the budget's sound financial position per GFOA best practices. - President Green voiced strong support, noting the alignment of community priorities with the amendments. She highlighted the historic $2 million for Code Blue, $1 million for right to counsel, $1 million for tiny homes, and $1 million for youth jobs. She acknowledged concerns about the state takeover of SLMPD and stated that the budget reflects the city's own priorities, not the police board's request. She reminded the public that the vote is a step in a longer process, with the Board of Aldermen's budget committee beginning meetings on May 4 at 9:30 AM. - Comptroller Baringer expressed reservations about the budget's sustainability, recalling the 2008 furlough of city employees and stressing the need for long-term financial planning. She stated she was neither opposed to nor in favor of the budget as presented, preferring to review the Board of Aldermen's further work before final approval. Key Outcomes - Vote on Amendments 1A, 1B, 2, and 3: Approved unanimously (Mayor aye, Comptroller aye, President aye). - Vote on Amendment 4: Approved 2-1 (Mayor aye, Comptroller no, President aye). - Vote on the FY2027 Budget as Amended (Item 1): Approved 2-0-1 (Mayor aye, Comptroller abstain, President aye). The budget will be submitted to the Board of Aldermen via board bill for their review and potential changes. The Board of Aldermen's budget committee will hold daily meetings starting Monday, May 4, 2026, at 9:30 AM.

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened on Friday, May 1, 2026, with Acting President Cone presiding in the absence of President Green, who is on maternity leave. A quorum of 11 members was present. The board addressed routine approvals, suspended rules for several bills, adopted resolutions, and debated a controversial resolution supporting May Day labor actions. The meeting concluded with announcements about upcoming budget hearings and adjournment to Friday, May 8, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved meeting minutes from Monday, April 20, 2026, and Tuesday, April 21, 2026. - Courtesy Resolutions Consent Calendar: The board adopted a package of courtesy resolutions en bloc, including Resolution 12 (honoring late journalist Ray Hartmann), Resolution 8 (recognizing SLU policy pods), Resolution 7 (honoring former journalist Tim), and Resolution 9 (celebrating a new coffee shop, Bellas Cafe). The package passed with 14 aye votes. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. The meeting included only remarks by aldermen and honored guests. Discussion Items - Introductions of Honored Guests: Acting President Cone welcomed neighbors whose tornado-damaged home was restored; Alderwoman from the 11th introduced Jessica Trout and SLU policy pods working on street safety legislation; Alderwoman from the 14th welcomed Dr. Joyce Roberts. - Board Bill Suspensions: The board suspended rules to introduce Board Bills 1 (budget bill with amendments from the mayor and president), 15 (pay bill for the Board of Election Commission), and 16 (pay bill for the Medical Examiner’s office). The motion passed 14-0. A later suspension for Board Bill 17 (street closing) also passed. - Appointments to Boards: Mayor Spencer’s appointments to the Clean Energy Development Board (Stephen Westbrooks and Emily Andrews) were initially moved for approval but, at the request of Alderwoman from the 12th, were instead sent to the Legislation Committee (passed 14-0). An appointment to the Developmental Disabilities Resource Commission was sent to the Health and Human Development Committee. - First Reading of Board Bills: The clerk read several bills, including multiple speed hump ordinances (Board Bills 3–7, 11, 13), employee compensation bills (Board Bills 8, 9, 12), a street renaming bill (Board Bill 14), and the budget bill (Board Bill 1). Bills were referred to the Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee or the Budget Committee as appropriate. - Resolution 10 – ALS Awareness Month: Alderwoman from the 6th introduced Resolution 10 recognizing May 2026 as ALS Awareness Month. It was adopted unanimously (13 aye). - Resolution 11 – Support for May Day Labor Actions: Alderwoman from the 4th introduced Resolution 11 supporting various labor actions on May 1, including no work, no school, and no shopping. Debate centered on whether the resolution encouraged truancy. Alderwoman from the 12th expressed support for most actions but objected to children missing school. Alderman from the 2nd called the resolution a “stunt” and advocated for education as a priority. Alderwoman from the 14th and 6th added as co-sponsors, citing historical labor rights (e.g., eight-hour workday). Alderwoman from the 7th clarified the resolution was about awareness and empowerment, not mandatory absenteeism. The resolution passed 12-1. - Closed Session: The board voted 14-0 to enter closed session under Missouri statute §610.021.3 for legal matters. No details were reported. - Courtesy Resolutions and Adoptions: After returning to open session, the board adopted Resolution 12 (honoring Ray Hartmann) with a moment of silence, then the entire courtesy resolution consent calendar. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution 11: Passed with 12 aye and 1 no vote. The resolution supports labor actions but does not mandate school absenteeism, as clarified by the sponsor. - Appointment Referrals: All mayoral appointments were referred to appropriate committees rather than approved directly. - Board Bill Introductions: Board Bills 1, 15, 16, and 17 were successfully introduced via rule suspension. - Budget Committee Announcements: Alderman from the 14th announced that the police department declined to present its budget before the committee; Director Paul Payne will present the proposed police budget on the first day of hearings. Budget committee meetings are scheduled for May 4–7, 2026. - Adjournment: The board adjourned at an unspecified time until Friday, May 8, 2026, at 9:10 a.m. in the chambers.