Budget, data centers, Rams money on tap as St. Louis Board of Aldermen starts new session

The St. Louis Board of Aldermen is set to commence a new legislative session on Tuesday, with bills slated for introduction starting May 1. This session is anticipated to be one of the most demanding in recent memory, focusing on several critical issues for the city. Key among the agenda items is the city budget for the fiscal year beginning July 1. This year's budget is complicated by uncertainty regarding the exact amount to be allocated to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Board President Megan Green and Mayor Cara Spencer both agree on an approximate allocation of $220 million, which includes a 7% raise negotiated by the state-appointed Board of Police Commissioners and the St. Louis Police Officers Association. However, the board has certified expenses closer to $250 million, leading to potential contention. Another significant discussion will revolve around the remaining $255 million from the Rams settlement funds. While Mayor Spencer and Board President Green largely agree on directing these funds towards tornado recovery, downtown development, and city infrastructure—including the water department—specific dollar amounts for each category are still being negotiated. Despite these funds, the city's water department will still require an 18% rate hike this year, with further increases expected until 2032, to ensure its solvency. Furthermore, President Green expects the aldermen to address changes to the minority contracting program, proposing a new city office to monitor compliance. Importantly for development, she also anticipates the board will consider various zoning matters, specifically mentioning new regulations for data centers.