On Thursday, May 21, 2026, the St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened for its regular meeting, presided over by Acting President Shane Cohn. The session was marked by unanimous support for resolutions honoring community leaders and cultural advocates, as well as progress on important legislative measures impacting city employees and public services.

Celebrating Transgender Day of Visibility and Community Champions

The meeting opened with an invocation led by Jordan Braxton in honor of Transgender Day of Visibility. Following this, Resolution Number 28 was read and adopted unanimously, officially recognizing March 31, 2026, as Transgender Day of Visibility in St. Louis. This resolution highlighted the city's commitment to celebrating the achievements and civil rights of transgender, non-binary, and gender-expansive individuals, spotlighting the 16th annual "Visibility for Our Lives" events that emphasize empowerment through five pillars: Glamour, Confidence, Joy, Resilience, and Community Spirit.

Acting President Cohn also acknowledged several other community leaders through Courtesy Resolutions. These included:

• Maven Logik Lee, a multidisciplinary artist and advocate known for uplifting marginalized Black queer communities through arts and nonprofit leadership.
• Rosemary Ray, Founder and CEO of the Buchanan Foundation, recognized for her humanitarian outreach and efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic to support vulnerable populations in St. Louis.
• Montrelle Day, honored for his leadership within the Black LGBTQIA+ ballroom community and his service as a former deputy sheriff and police officer.
• Derrick LaVaughn Hodges and Ms. Vera Lee Aaron, whose lives were celebrated posthumously for their dedication to family, faith, and community.

Additionally, the Board honored the upcoming “Bringing It Together HealthFest” event, which supports senior citizens through health education and community engagement.

Legislative Progress on Employee Compensation and Public Services

The Board advanced several significant ordinances during the meeting:

• Board Bill Number 12: A comprehensive ordinance regulating employer-employee relations within the classified city service, including compensation plans, benefits, and authorization for deferred compensation programs. This bill received a “Do Pass” recommendation from the Budget and Public Employees Committee.
• Board Bill Number 24: Addressing St. Louis Fire EMS funding related to emergency medical transportation.
• Board Bill Number 25: Enacting adjustments to water rates to support essential operations.
• Board Bill Number 26: Repealing and replacing existing ordinances relating to the Treasurer’s Office employee classifications and salaries.
• Board Bill Number 27: Pertaining to the lease agreement for the Homer G. Phillips Senior Apartments, introduced through a suspension of rules motion.

Committee referrals were made accordingly, with Budget and Public Employees Committee reviewing key employment-related legislation and the Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee addressing water rate concerns.

Appointments and Approvals

The Board unanimously approved Mayor Cara Spencer’s appointments and reappointments to the Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District, reinforcing ongoing efforts to improve community infrastructure.

Meeting Logistics and Upcoming Events

The meeting was attended by 13 aldermen, establishing a quorum. Notably absent but excused were Alderwoman Jami Cox Antwi and President Megan Green. The session adjourned at 10:43 a.m., with the next full Board meeting scheduled for Friday, May 29, 2026.

Upcoming Committee Meetings:

• May 26: Housing, Urban Development & Zoning (Kennedy Room), Legislation & Rules (Webinar)
• May 27: Budget & Public Employees (Kennedy Room)
• May 28: Personnel & Administration (Kennedy Room)