Development News for St. Ann, Missouri

City Board Approves Prisoner Housing Agreement, Police Vehicles, and User Fee Adjustments

The board reviewed and approved the first reading of Bill Number 3527, an ordinance authorizing the city administrator to negotiate or renew an agreement with the US Marshall Service for prisoner housing. Following discussion and a motion to approve, the bill was advanced to become Ordinance Number 3431. Additionally, the board considered Bill Number 3528 for the purchase of three police vehicles, with two budgeted and one replacing a trade-in. After discussion and a motion, Bill Number 3528 was advanced to become Ordinance Number 3432. Finally, Bill Number 3529, an ordinance authorizing the city administrator to adjust certain user fees, was discussed. This ordinance pertains to fees for park system usage, street opening permits, and annual exterior inspections of rental properties. The discussion clarified that the inspection fee is a new charge to fund the inspection program. The board moved forward with the second reading of Bill Number 3529, which became Ordinance Number 3433.

City Considered to Host Collegiate Handball Championships in February

A board member introduced a potential event: the United States Handball Association's National League Championships, specifically the collegiate championships, which were seeking a venue after being flooded out in Springfield, Missouri. The event is tentatively scheduled for February 18th and would involve over 200 players from various universities. The proposed arrangement includes a $10 rate for participants (resident rate), potential room rentals, and catering. The board member indicated they had already agreed in principle, pending board approval. The possibility of this becoming an annual event was discussed, especially with St. Louis becoming a home base for the association. Additionally, a bicycle event organizer has contacted the city to schedule another event.

Nonprofit Proposes Community Funding Through Gaming Events, Including National Dart Tournament

Ry Leon presented a proposal for 'Real Tournament Solutions,' a nonprofit initiative focused on generating community funding through gaming events, specifically a dart tournament. The goal is to direct funds raised within the community to local charities. Leon pitched a community fun event in April, potentially linked to the 'Almost Famous Dart Tournament' which has national reach. He emphasized that donations would stay local and proposed that businesses could reduce fees by participating through the nonprofit. He also mentioned the 'Parker Jackson Foundation' and 'Hope Camp' as related initiatives. Tim, the community center director, was suggested as a point of contact to help organize such events.

Community Service and Public Safety Efforts Recognized: From Holiday Drives to Evidence Audits and Animal Welfare

The board recognized Scott Klet for his extensive community service, particularly his role in organizing Christmas events like 'Toys in the Streets' and the 'Cops for Kids' program, in collaboration with USCL Sports and Billy Mayho. This initiative provides presents to children and food to families in need, involving police interaction with the community. Klet's efforts, spanning 12-13 years, focus on community outreach and positive police-community relations. The 'Home Run Derby' event, also organized by Klet, is a significant community fundraiser, having previously helped ABC stay open. The discussion also touched on the 'Mouse Races,' a 10-year event that has raised over half a million dollars for SAPA, injured officers, and DARE programs, with upcoming races on February 7th. The board also presented a plaque to evidence technician Michael Edison for his exceptional diligence in conducting an evidence audit for the North County Police Cooperative, highlighting his professionalism and attention to detail. Edison spent over 1500 hours over 15 days reorganizing their evidence room, which was in disarray following an indictment of their police chief. He also assisted with officer-involved shooting investigations, dedicating significant overtime. Lastly, the board recognized Sage Eubinger, animal control officer, for her outstanding dedication to animal welfare and the Saint animal pet adoption agency, noting her around-the-clock commitment, her role in securing a donated animal control truck valued at $64,000, and her extensive networking with other agencies. Eubinger's work also supports SAPA and involves volunteering time and finding shelter for animals.