St. Louis Government News | STL Homelife

Water Division Moratorium Lifted, New Assistance Available for Tornado Survivors

Lou — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:38:50 +0000

Mayor Cara Spencer and Director of Public Utilities Niraj Patel, P.E., in partnership with Julian Nicks, Chief Recovery Officer, announced new plans to help tornado survivors pay their water bills.The Tornado Recovery Water Affordability Program will deliver direct relief on water bills to residents impacted by the May 16 tornado. To ease the burden on tornado survivors, they have been prequalified if they have already applied for assistance. Those households can enroll in under 5 minutes. For those with uninhabitable homes, their bills and penalties will be forgiven back to May 16, 2025. Others are encouraged to apply for assistance.Across tornado-impacted neighborhoods, 4,164 accounts are currently delinquent on their water bills, representing roughly $4.34 million in outstanding water debt. Nearly 1,900 of those accounts owe $500 or less, while approximately 720 households owe more than $2,000. Some of these balances began during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, the Water Division issued a moratorium on delinquent water bills and stopped shut-off efforts for households that fell behind. Today the moratorium is being lifted, and the Water Division will begin addressing delinquent bills. At the same time, this program is being introduced to help households who may need additional support.”The tornado added another significant financial burden for families already working to recover and regain stability,” said Mayor Spencer. “Our goal with this program is simple: help residents achieve a lower balance, a manageable payment, and a lower water bill going forward.”The program was developed by the Water Division in collaboration with the STL Recovery Office and is made possible by Board Bill 25 (Ordinance 72155), sponsored by Alderman Browning and passed by the Board of Aldermen.”Water is essential, and disconnection is always our last resort,” Patel said. “What we are putting in place are the tools, including rate reductions and extended payment timelines, to help residents maintain water service. If you are behind on your bill, there is a plan here that fits your circumstances, but we need you to reach out so we can build it with you.”The program offers several pathways to relief, designed to work together so that no eligible resident falls through a gap.Letters have gone out to impacted residents that explain what options are available to them through the program.Tornado Recovery Water Affordability Program50% Affordability Rate. Residents impacted by the May 16, 2025 tornado qualify for a 50 percent reduction in their water rate through December 2028, whether or not they have fallen behind on their bill.Repayment Plan with 50% Credit. For accounts carrying a past due balance, the Affordability Rate is applied retroactively to May 2025 as a lump sum credit that reduces the balance directly, paired with a repayment plan of up to 24 months. The Division can extend plans to 36 months case by case for larger balances.Full Credit for Uninhabita

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Roll Cart Trash Collection Schedule Adjusted to Accommodate Labor Day 2026

Lou — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:38:44 +0000

The City of St. Louis Refuse Division would like to remind residents with roll carts that the trash collection schedule will be adjusted to accommodate Labor Day observance on Monday, September 7, 2026. Residents who normally have their roll carts collected on Mondays (solid waste) and Thursdays (recycling) will have their trash collected on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 and recyclables collected on Thursday, September 10, 2026. Residents who normally have their roll carts collected on Tuesdays (solid waste) and Fridays (recycling) will receive trash collection on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 and recyclables collected on Friday, September 11, 2026. The yard waste collection will resume on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.For convenient reference see the Refuse Division website where residents can also find answers to questions about Remodeling and Renovation, Illegal Dumping, Bulky and B.O.A.T. Items (Batteries, Oil, Appliances, Tires), Yard Waste and Christmas Trees, and Recycling. Also for hazardous waste, please check out our program.

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Investment in Recreation Centers Brings Updates, Repairs, and a Few Temporary Closures

Lou — Fri, 21 Aug 2026 02:30:40 +0000

Several City of St. Louis Recreation Centers are undergoing updates and repairs. These facility-related upgrades will enable the centers to continue providing safe and enjoyable places for children and adults alike to exercise, explore new interests, play their favorite sport, and participate in numerous activities and programs.”The City’s recreation centers have been strongholds in our neighborhoods for decades,” said Juakena Callion, City of St. Louis Commissioner of Recreation. “By investing in needed repairs and updates, the City is helping to preserve and extend the life of these centers which offer a place where people of all ages can find positive, healthy activities, throughout the year at no charge.”Please note the following temporary closures:Buder Recreation Center to close Aug. 24-31, 2026, in preparation of a new roof.Cherokee Recreation Center is currently closed for repairs, and the reopening date is undetermined at this time.Updates and repairs include a new roof, updated locker rooms, new flooring, and a new gym floor.Wohl Recreation Center to close beginning Monday, Aug. 24 for approximately six months.Updates and repairs include a new roof, updated locker rooms and multipurpose room, and a new gym floor.Staying Connected During ClosuresCherokee and Wohl Recreation Centers are within two (2) miles of other City recreation centers. Therefore, City of St. Louis residents who typically participate in Cherokee Recreation Center programs have been encouraged to participate in programs at the Marquette Recreation Center. Residents who typically participate in Wohl Recreation Center programs are encouraged to participate in programs at the Tandy Recreation Center.More information, including locations and hours of operation, can be found at City of St. Louis Recreation Centers.

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2026 Tornado Repairs and Preservation NOFA Application and Materials Available August 20

Lou — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 20:28:51 +0000

The Tornado Repair and Preservation Grant program funds the repair and preservation of affordable rental housing damaged by the May 16, 2025 tornado. CDCs, nonprofit affordable housing developer/owners, public housing authorities, and private owners of regulated/covenanted affordable rental housing units may apply for funds to repair affordable rental units damaged by the May 16, 2025 tornado. The NOFA will be available in the Procurements section of the AHC website starting August 20.

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Precautionary Boil Water Advisory Issued August 17 for Parts of North and South City and Midtown

Lou — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 18:24:58 +0000

The City Water Division has issued a precautionary boil water advisory for portions of its service area due to low water pressure caused by storm-related power outages at the Chain of Rocks Water Treatment Plant.There are three affected areas (one in North City, one in South City, and one in Midtown) under the precautionary boil water advisory. The neighborhoods are as follows:Area 1Hamilton HeightsKingsway West and Wells-GoodfellowWalnut Park WestWalnut Park EastPenroseArea 2Hi-Pointe, Clayton-Tamm, Cheltenham and Kings OakFranz Park, The Hill and Southwest GardenEllendale, Clifton Heights and North HamptonTower Grove South, South Grand and Gravois ParkTower Grove East, Compton Heights, Shaw, Benton Park WestArea 3Jeff-Vander-LouGrand CenterMidtownSt. Louis PlaceSee Map for more specific details of the affected area.The Water Division has not detected any contamination to the water supply and has issued the boil water advisory out of an abundance of caution. The boil water advisory is in effect until further notice. The Water Division will analyze water samples before determining when to lift the boil water advisory. Test results will be in 24 hours. Details can be found at https://www.stlwater.com.

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Moody’s Revises City of St. Louis Credit Outlook to Positive

Lou — Fri, 14 Aug 2026 20:17:18 +0000

(St. Louis – August 14, 2026) – Moody’s has revised the City of St. Louis’ credit outlook to positive, while affirming the city’s “A2” credit rating. The report recognizes the city’s strong financial position, improved reserves and liquidity, and continued commitment to structural balance. Moody’s also noted the city’s diverse economy and role as the regional employment center, while identifying ongoing challenges including the below-average incomes, population decline, and long-term infrastructure needs. “This positive outlook from Moody’s is a clear recognition of the City of St. Louis’ continued commitment to sound financial management,” Comptroller Donna M.C. Baringer said. “Our strong reserves and focus on structural balance give us a solid foundation to make strategic investments in the future of our city while maintaining fiscal responsibility.”The city’s available fund balance stood at approximately $941 million, with approximately $1.16 billion in net unrestricted cash at the end of the fiscal year 2025. Available fund balance represented approximately 61.5 percent of revenue, while liquidity was approximately 76 percent of revenue. Moody’s concluded that the city’s positive outlook reflects its expectation that St. Louis will maintain a healthy financial position despite the planned used of Rams settlement funds for one time capital projects. The agency expects the city’s available fund balance to remain about 45 percent of revenue at the close of fiscal year 2027. ###Comptroller Donna M.C Baringer is the chief fiscal officer of the City of St. Louis and is charged with safeguarding the city’s credit rating and with protecting taxpayer dollars. Visit www.stlouismo.gov-comptroller to learn more about the Office of the Comptroller.

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A Q&A with Bob Ray, Soulard Farmers Market Manager

Lou — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 22:11:53 +0000

Nobody knows Soulard Farmers Market like Market Manager Bob Ray, who has led operations at the market since 2021. In his role, Bob works to maintain the market and manage relationships with 100+ vendors, while welcoming thousands of customers each week. It’s safe to say Bob knows every nook and cranny of the market. He has a passion for its history, and that history will be celebrated at the market’s Founder’s Day Bluegrass Festival on August 29, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.Bob also has a strong commitment to the market’s present place in the community, and a vision for its future.We asked him to share some of those insights. Q. What has allowed Soulard Market to survive for more than two centuries while so many historic markets disappeared?A. The City of St. Louis is proud to operate Soulard Farmers Market, among the country’s oldest and most popular farmers markets and the longest continuously operating market west of the Mississippi.The City continues to invest in the market. Last year, significant improvements were made to the market’s exterior, including electrical updates, new roofing, fascia, and soffit over the vendor wings, and tuckpointing of the entire market building. In addition, many of the architectural and style elements of the market which have become worn down by age and weather are being repaired and preserved.In addition, our vendors are integral to the endurance of the market. Some of our farming families have sold their produce with us for generations.Q. Soulard Market has been part of St. Louis through enormous changes. What has remained at the heart of the market despite those shifts?The market holds a special place in the community as a historic landmark and tourist destination, as well as a centrally-located market where shoppers can find budget-friendly fresh foods, prepared foods, apparel, souvenirs, and other goods.It is a place where vendors have the backing of a consistent and loyal customer base in a market that is open year-round.The market offers a low-cost, low-risk setting. With affordable rent and a steady stream of customers, the market serves as a small business incubator and opportunity for entrepreneurs to build and refine a new business. Q. How has the mix of vendors and products changed over the years?In the last 20 years, the demographic makeup of Soulard Market changed from almost exclusively farm related and expanded to include mixed goods and food. Our farmers and produce vendors will always be anchors at the market. Yet shoppers appreciate the variety of goods offered here – all in one location. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, our vendors offer fresh meat and fish, baked goods, honey, candy, beverages, snacks, and prepared meals. Non-food vendors offer apparel, health and beauty accessories, fresh flowers, and crafts.The mix of vendors has allowed the market to serve as a small business incubator and opportunity for entrepreneurs to build and refine a new business. For example, Freddie Lee’s G

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City of St. Louis Corrections, SLATE Graduate 14 Residents from Prison to Prosperity Program

Lou — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 22:11:47 +0000

The City of St. Louis’ Division of Corrections, a division of the Department of Public Safety, and the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE) celebrated the graduation of 14 residents of the St. Louis City Justice Center who successfully completed the Prison to Prosperity Program today.”This graduation ceremony shows the good that can happen when City departments collaborate,” said Mayor Cara Spencer. “The Prison to Prosperity Program is creating real opportunities that help residents build brighter futures. By investing in people while they are incarcerated, we are strengthening families, improving public safety, and creating pathways to long-term success.”The intensive 10-week program combines workforce development with personal growth. Led by professionals from SLATE, participants receive instruction in emotional regulation, goal setting, job readiness, financial literacy, communication, and other essential life skills that prepare them for employment and successful reentry. “The program is really about meeting people where they are and giving them the opportunity to reflect, grow, and build a better future,” said Connie Johnson, Executive Director of SLATE. “Our role is to connect participants with the training resources and employment opportunities they need to successfully reenter the workforce and become self-sufficient.”A hallmark of the program is the focus on the head, heart, and hands—encouraging participants to reflect on their experiences, develop healthier decision-making skills, build confidence, and gain practical workforce knowledge they can immediately apply upon returning to the community. Graduates leave with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools needed to pursue meaningful employment and long-term stability. “The program really helped me to look at things differently. It taught me how to forgive myself. I never had an experience like this program. The information we get, we share with the guys in our wing. SLATE helps us, and we share that information to help them. I really appreciate SLATE coming in and helping us out,” said program graduate Michael Hollins. Following their release, graduates will continue working with SLATE to build upon the skills developed during the program and connect with employment opportunities and other resources that support successful reintegration into the community. “We want every resident who leaves the City Justice Center to have the tools, confidence and support needed to succeed,” said Nate Hayward, Commissioner of Corrections. “The Prison to Prosperity Program equips residents with practical skills, personal growth and a roadmap for the future. Their success after release is one of the greatest measures of our success.” This graduating class marks the first cohort of the Prison to Prosperity Program. Building on its early success, the Division of Corrections and SLATE are already planning future cohorts to expand the program’s impact and provide more residents with

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Notice of Public Meeting and Design and Construction of Loughborough Bridge over Union Pacific Railroad

Lou — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 01:58:53 +0000

The City of St. Louis is seeking public input on the design of the reconstruction of the Loughborough Bridge over Union Pacific Railroad. The project will completely replace the existing bridge and will feature an ADA-compliant sidewalk on the north side, a 12′ wide shared-use path on the south side, upgraded lighting, and decorative safety fencing. At the same time, the Missouri Department of Transportation is advancing the design for the replacement of the Loughborough Bridge over I-55 (MoDOT Project No. J6S3442). The City and MoDOT are working closely together to coordinate both designs so the two bridge replacements can be delivered as a single construction project, reducing impacts to the public and improving construction efficiency. Engineers from the City and MoDOT will be available to answer questions and discuss the project.Preliminary engineering plans are now complete and the City has announced a public meeting will be held at the Carondelet Branch of the St. Louis Public Library, 6800 Michigan Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63111, on Monday August 24, 2026, between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard concerning their views on the design. Tentative schedules for right of way acquisition and construction will be discussed at the meeting. An open-house format will be used, and persons may discuss the project and offer comments at any time between the prescribed hours.Maps, plats, and other detail information prepared by the City of St. Louis, will be available for public inspection and copying at the offices of the Board of Public Service, Room 301 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103. Written statements and exhibits as well as oral statements will be received at the hearing. Written statements and exhibits received within ten working days after the date of the meeting will be made a part of the public hearing records. Comments will be accepted in the form of writing or providing a recorded statement. Comments can be submitted directly to the City via the Loughborough Bridge Project Page. People with disabilities who require special services at the public hearing should notify the City at (314) 589-6605 by August 17, 2026, so arrangements for those services can be made.

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City Agencies to Host Free “Financial First Aid” Expos to Help St. Louisans Prepare for Life’s Unexpected Emergencies

Lou — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 23:01:27 +0000

ST. LOUIS, Mo., Aug. 4, 2026 — The St. Louis Treasurer’s Office, through its Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE), and the City of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), will host two free Financial First Aid Resource Expos in August. These expos are designed to help residents prepare for unexpected financial challenges caused by emergencies, job loss, and other unforeseen events.The Financial First Aid Resource Expos will be held:Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Location: Rung for Women, 2717 Sidney St., St. Louis, MO 63104Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.Location: Delmar DivINe, 5535 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112Both events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided, and language interpreters will be available to assist residents with language barriers. Unexpected emergencies create significant financial hardships for individuals and families through unexpected expenses, lost income, property damage, and disruptions to daily life. These financial shocks have long-lasting consequences, particularly for underserved communities that may already face barriers to financial stability.”Preparing for emergencies isn’t just about having supplies on hand; it’s also about protecting your financial well-being,” said St. Louis City Treasurer Adam Layne. “These expos will connect residents with resources and information that can help them weather unexpected financial challenges and recover more quickly when emergencies do occur.””Households that take important steps to prepare for disasters, including gathering essential personal and financial documents, often have an easier road to recovery,” said Greggory J. Favre, CEMA Commissioner. “Pulling together your key records now, from IDs and medical information to any insurance and banking details, is one of the simplest and most practical things you can do to protect your family.”The expos will feature several community organizations for information and resources, and a guest speaker Alicia Lewis, with Focus Partners Wealth. Ms. Lewis brings more than 15 years of experience in financial planning and risk management. She specializes in helping individuals and families navigate financial decisions through a comprehensive, practical, and client-centered approach.In addition to recovering from the immediate effects of an emergency, many residents must navigate complex assistance programs, determine eligibility requirements, and understand how to access available resources. Research shows that a household’s financial stability before a disaster occurs can greatly affect its ability to recover and benefit from relief programs.OFE and CEMA have also worked to add Financial Resources to the City’s “Help Resources” website. Organizations listed provide career and financial education, assistance with credit reports (obtaining and reviewing), and securing stable housing. To view and connect with these resources, visit the St. Louis Help Resources – Financial

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