St. Louis Board of Aldermen

St. Louis Board of Aldermen is the legislative body for the independent City of St. Louis, operating under a strong mayor-council system established by the 1876 St. Louis City–County separation. It is one of the oldest continuously operating municipal legislatures in the United States, with its origins in the early 19th century. The board is responsible for enacting local laws, approving the city budget, and providing oversight of the Mayor of St. Louis and the executive departments.

History

The board's origins trace to the Louisiana Purchase and the city's incorporation in 1809, with its first charter granted by the Missouri Territory legislature. Its structure and powers were fundamentally reshaped by the 1876 St. Louis City–County separation, which created the city's unique status as an independent city not part of any county. Throughout the 20th century, the board was central to debates over urban development, such as the construction of the Gateway Arch and Interstate 70. Significant reforms, including a major reduction in the number of wards from 28 to 14, were approved by city voters in 2012 following advocacy by groups like STL Not for Sale.

Composition and elections

The board is composed of 14 alderpersons, each elected from single-member wards for four-year staggered terms. Elections are non-partisan in practice, though most members are affiliated with the Democratic Party, reflecting the city's political leanings. The presiding officer is the President of the Board of Aldermen, a citywide elected position currently held by Megan Ellyia Green; the President Pro Tem is selected from among the members. The most recent elections were held in 2023, concurrent with the election for Mayor of St. Louis.

Powers and duties

The board holds primary legislative authority for the city, including the power to pass ordinances, resolutions, and bond issues. Its most significant duty is the annual adoption of the city's operating budget, which funds agencies like the Metropolitan Police Department and the St. Louis Fire Department. The board exercises oversight through its standing committees, which review matters from public safety to public utilities, and must approve major mayoral appointments and contracts. It also has the authority to override mayoral vetoes with a two-thirds majority vote.

Recent developments and controversies

In recent years, the board has been at the center of significant political changes and debates. It played a key role in the 2020 decision to reapportion local earnings tax revenue, a move championed by then-Aldermanic President Lewis Reed. The board has also grappled with controversies surrounding development incentives for projects like the Gateway South Innovation District and ethical scandals, including the 2022 federal corruption conviction of former Alderwoman Lyda Krewson. Recent sessions have focused on legislation concerning affordable housing, police reform, and preparations for the city to host FIFA World Cup matches.

Notable members

Many board members have used the position as a springboard to higher office. Francis Preston Blair Jr. served as an alderman before being elected to the United States House of Representatives and becoming a Union Army general. John W. Darby was a prominent alderman and Mayor of St. Louis in the 1850s. In the modern era, Virvus Jones served as both alderman and city Comptroller, while Lewis Reed was the longest-serving President of the Board. Current Congresswoman Cori Bush also served as a committee clerk for the board prior to her election to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Category:St. Louis Board of Aldermen Category:Government of St. Louis Category:Unicameral legislatures Category:1808 establishments in Missouri