ls at its next meeting on Friday, August 16th.
The Board of Aldermen Perfects Bills for November Charter Amendments
The Board of Aldermen has finalized several bills that will be presented to voters for approval this November. These amendments, discussed during today’s meeting, were the result of a year-long public process conducted by the nine-member Charter Commission.
The commission, formed in 2023 after a measure was approved by 60% of voters, was tasked with conducting a decennial review of the Charter. Originally, the process was intended to directly place proposals on the ballot. However, it was adjusted to include the city’s legislative process in order to comply with state law, under advisement from the City Counselor’s Office.
“The original intention was to allow the Commission to present its proposals directly to city voters,” stated President Megan E. Green. “We understand the reasoning behind bringing the process to the Board of Aldermen and we are taking this opportunity to ensure that each proposal is thoroughly evaluated for implementation before being placed on the ballot.”
The Board also plans to form a Special Committee on St. Louis Charter Revisions to consider the Commission’s remaining recommendations for future ballot inclusion.
Voters to Decide on Proposed Charter Amendments
On November 5th, voters will have the final say on whether to approve the following proposals:
Board Bill 30FS: This bill would expand the Board of Aldermen’s budget authority to align with standard checks and balances practices used in other municipal, state, and federal legislatures. If approved, the Board would have the authority to add items to the budget, as long as a balanced budget is maintained. This would give residents a stronger voice in how city resources are allocated.
Board Bill 61AA: This bill proposes the consolidation of city departments to create a unified Department of Transportation. The new department would oversee street design, maintenance, public safety measures, and other transportation projects, which are currently managed by separate departments. If approved, these changes would go into effect in 2029.
Board Bill 72CS: This bill would remove the $500 cap on municipal ordinance violations for the purpose of holding owners of vacant and distressed properties accountable.
Board Bill 76FS: This bill would replace pronouns in the Charter with specific titles and rename the Board of Aldermen to City Council. Outdated job titles and departments would also be updated to reflect modern terminology, acknowledging that positions within city government are held by individuals of all genders.
The Board of Aldermen will take a final vote on these proposals at its next meeting on Friday, August 16th. If they receive final approval and the Mayor’s signature, they will be placed on the November 5th ballot. It is important to note that any Charter amendments require 60% approval from voters in order to be adopted.
