Force, where he served as a commander, strategist, and diplomat.
Mayor Cara Spencer Announces Key Appointments and Departure of Community Development Administration Executive Director
In a move to strengthen the administration and improve city services, Mayor Cara Spencer has announced the appointments of three key members to her team. At the same time, she has also announced the upcoming departure of Community Development Administration Executive Director Nahuel Fefer.
James Jackson Appointed as Street Department Director
Mayor Spencer has appointed James Jackson to serve as the new Street Department director. With over three decades of experience in public works, Jackson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. He has previously worked in cities such as Atlanta, Topeka, Detroit, and Washington, D.C. In his new position, Jackson will be responsible for managing the City’s efforts in refuse collection, street maintenance, snow removal, and the tow lot.
“I promised Mayor Spencer that I will work tirelessly to bring the Street Department up to the highest performance standards,” said Jackson. “I’m looking forward to meeting the team and delivering the best possible services for the citizens of St. Louis.”
Jackson will be taking over from Interim Street Department Director Kent Flake, who will resume his previous position as the commissioner of the Street Department. Flake has led the department with distinction, especially during the aftermath of the May 16 tornado. He oversaw the cleanup efforts, which totaled 32,434 hours of work in just two months. Flake also implemented cost-saving measures in the recycling program, saving taxpayers approximately $100,000 each month.
“We owe Kent a real debt of gratitude. I want to personally thank him for stepping in during a transition at the department and leading us through an intense period of storm clean-up, the scale of which we had not seen before,” said Mayor Spencer.
Marvin Teer Appointed as Director of Office of Violence Prevention
Mayor Spencer has also appointed Marvin Teer as the new director of the Office of Violence Prevention. With over three decades of experience in law, community engagement, and violence reduction, Teer brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the position. He most recently served as the chief trial attorney for the City of St. Louis Circuit Attorney’s Office, where he led multiple prosecutorial divisions, including the Violent Crime Unit. Teer’s career also includes serving as a municipal court judge, administrative law judge, assistant attorney general, and director and general counsel for the Office of Community Engagement under former Governor Jay Nixon.
“I’m honored to serve the people of St. Louis in this critical role. Violence prevention requires partnership, compassion, and persistence – and I look forward to working with our community partners, city leaders, and residents to ensure every neighborhood can thrive in safety and peace,” said Teer.
Col. Bryan Barroqueiro Appointed as Deputy Chief Operating Officer
In another important addition to her team, Mayor Spencer has appointed Col. Bryan Barroqueiro as the new deputy chief operating officer. With a distinguished 25-year career in the U.S. Air Force, Barroqueiro brings a wealth of leadership, strategic planning, and diplomatic skills to the role.
Barroqueiro’s appointment will take effect on Nov. 3, and he will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the city government.
“I am excited to join the city government and work towards making a positive impact in the community,” said Barroqueiro.
These appointments mark a significant step towards improving city services and strengthening the administration under Mayor Spencer’s leadership.
