News Stew

April 04, 2007

In the New Issue

First, in my article of the Pres of BOA race, I mention Bob Rice's predictions.
Here is his ward-byward spreadsheet.

Second, I mentioned our new web look. It should be up tomorrow, with new content coming throughout the month.

Finally, Brian Werner wrote an enjoyable piece about Write-Ins. Here it is:

Voters Without a Choice Choose “Someone Else”
Who would make the better Alderman: Mickey Mouse or Jimi Hendrix?

Both received write-in votes in last month’s primary election, as did Hillary Clinton, Charles Manson, and Phil the Stuffed Gorilla, though none of these received near as many votes as perennial write-in favorites Mr. and Mrs. Anyone and Someone Else.

In the March election there were only two races on the ballot and half of the Aldermanic races were uncontested, so why go through the trouble of casting your ballot just to vote for Handsome B. Wonderful?

A small number of voters in this election went even further and wrote-in names for both races on the ballot. It’s hard to understand why they would take the time to vote. Are they driven by a sense of duty to their country, or just a lack of anything better to do?

It could be just for a laugh, but there might also be something deeper.

Some people clearly choose to express their dissatisfaction with a candidate, casting votes such as, “Not him (Yuck)!! Please No.”

Even if they don’t have ill will towards the candidate, voters may question the point of filling in an oval for someone who’s running uncontested.

“I feel like it’s very undemocratic if there’s only one person on the ballot,” said one 8th ward voter. “I didn’t write in my neighbor thinking he would win. I just thought it was as worthwhile as voting for the guy on the ballot.”

Voting is about choice, and it doesn’t seem right if there’s only one option, even if it’s a good one. People choose to write-in, knowing it won’t affect things, because it’s not about actually accomplishing anything; you do it because you can.

And there’s a sense of defiance that comes along with it. You can vote for absolutely anyone you want to. In fact, knowing that your candidate isn’t going to win gives you the freedom to consider who would be a really great alderman. The options are wide open. You can vote for yourself, the guy who lives next door, or an effeminate cartoon mouse.

I wonder how Mickey Mouse feels about tax increment financing.

Wards with the Most Write-Ins
16th Ward: 66 write-ins, 3.29% of the vote.
8th Ward: 43 write-ins, 5.19% of the vote.
14th Ward: 41 write-ins, 6.15% of the vote.

April 02, 2007

Monday Stew

Lots of states looking at HPV vaccine, and the costs.

The life of a testing coordinator.

Larry Summers looks at education.

Chicago sprawl continues.

March 30, 2007

Science Friday: First Kids, Now Batteries

Sure your kids can run on sugar, but now you batteries can too.

Researchers at Saint Louis University have developed a sugar-fueled battery. Though only in its infancy, the batteries could provide long-life with minimal environmental impact. Current batteries use metals to provide their charge.

Friday Stew

RCGA says Cards season to $294 million economic impact.

Philadelphia looks at licensing their tour guides.

DC's Metro shelves fare increase.

LA Times: No foreclosure bailout coming.

March 29, 2007

Just Go to Combest this morning

It's all there.

Jo hears whispers in the hall (others read it here 8 weeks ago or here 7 weeks ago).

Harris files papers for AG.

Blunt at 40% approval.

Post on education hearings.

March 28, 2007

Nasheed, Oxford introduce impeachment resolution

Full text here.

Here's a taste:

Whereas, George W. Bush has admitted to ordering the National Security Agency to conduct electronic surveillance of American civilians without seeking warrants from the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court of Review, duly constituted by Congress in 1978, in violation of 50 U. S. C. Section 1805; and

Whereas, George W. Bush and Richard B. Cheney acted to strip American citizens of their constitutional rights by ordering indefinite detention without access to legal counsel, without charge and without the opportunity to appear before a civil judicial officer to challenge the detention, based solely on the discretionary designation by the President of a U.S. citizen as an "enemy combatant", all in subversion of law; and

March 22, 2007

France Opens UFO File

Finally.

They dropped by Salem, MO last month.

March 21, 2007

Wednesday Stew

David Rosenberg and John H. Goffstein have been elected as Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively, of the Board of Trustees of the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD).

Urban Education Symposium, April 3.

Mike Ferguson Blog.

Big Shark Bicycle Co. has been recognized as one of the Top 100 Best Bicycle Retailers in the country according to survey by Boulder Sports Research of leading bike manufacturers.

March 19, 2007

Protesters wrap up vigil

A coalition of groups holding an anti-war vigil are beginning to take down the thousands of cardboard tombstones placed in the ground to the east of the Soldiers Memorial downtown.

The groups, Instead of War, Veterans for Peace and Military Families Speak Out and members of MoveOn.org ended their 24 hour vigil with a march to the Robert A. Young federal office building where U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill has her office.

Denied entry, members of the group demonstrated in front of the building on Tucker and received some honks of support as they waved signs and banged on a drum or two.

The vigil was part of a nation-wide effort by activists to protest the ongoing war in Iraq. The St. Louis vigil was just one of the events held nationally to recognize the 4th anniversary of the Iraq invasion.

The St. Louis chapter of the Instead of War coalition has also been responsible for the "Occupation Project" in which a number of activists have camped out in U.S. Representative Russ Carnahan's office, which has resulted in a number of arrests.

Anti-war groups have been pressuring a number of Democratic politicians since the party took control of Congress in November of last year. The groups have come under some criticism for focusing on Democrats and not Republicans who have controlled Congress for most of the war's duration.

The groups accuse the Democrats–who they heavily supported during the 2006 elections–of being wobbly on the war, especially given the war-weariness that added reach to the Democratic wave that propelled them into control of Congress.

Their focus has been on persuading politicians to de-fund operations in Iraq. Despite Democratic rhetorical support for a withdrawal, anything short of cutting off the cash will continue to draw the attention of the anti-war groups.

Given the Senate's failure last week to muster even majority support for a resolution calling for a phased withdrawal, while at the same time overwhelmingly support a resolution rejecting any proposal to cancel DOD's checks, they aren't likely to back off any time soon.

Senator McCaskill was one of the 48 yes votes the withdrawal resolution received. Missouri's senior Senator, Republican Kit Bond voted no. On the resolution to reject funding cuts, both Bond and McCaskill voted yea.

March 09, 2007

Friday Stew

Ben Abell to retire.

Today Mayor Francis Slay will be making an appearance at Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant for the ribbon cutting around 5:30 p.m. It's a new Ethiopian restaurant that's joining the South Grand International District.

The first Meskerem Ethiopian Restaurant was established in 1994 in the Times Square district of New York City as a family business. Soon afterwards they opened a second restaurant in the West Village, New York City. Having a success in these two locations, Meskerem expanded and opened an additional restaurant in Charlotte, NC. Meskerem is the first Ethiopian restaurant on South Grand.

Slight change to SLACO Conference tomorrow - Lunch speaker will be Michelle Sherod, Regional Director for Senator Claire McCaskill. Senator McCaskill will be speaking at the memorial Mass for Senator Thomas Eagleton. And Lewis Reed, president-elect of the Board of Alderman has also been invited to speak at lunch. UPDATE: Reed confirmed.

City Garden Montessori School has been operating as a preschool for 13 years and is currently expanding to create a Montessori elementary school that will serve the "near south side" of St. Louis City. It will have a focus on peace, social justice, ecology and mutual respect.

It is seeking K-2nd graders for a "foundational class" for the 2007-2008 school year. We are also seeking the support of community members as we proceed with this endeavor.

City Garden is holding an open house this Sunday, March 11th between 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. for prospective families and for people who are interested in hearing more about our plans. It will take place at Gibson Heights Presbyterian Church, where City Garden's kindergarten annex is located.

STOP MoDOT FROM CLOSING HIGHWAY 40 - State Rep. Scott Muschany will be holding a Town Hall meeting to discuss ideas, options and concerns about the closing of Highway 40. Saturday March 17, 10am, at the Brentwood High School Auditorium, 2221 High School Drive.

March 08, 2007

Thursday Stew

On a panel tonight with Combest and Jo at Young Republicans meeting, 7:30pm, 1640 S. Lindbergh.

Curtis Royston wears his ambition on his sleeve - or back.

American urges Shrewsbury to "work closely" with Reed should his office have the opportunity to appoint a member to the transitional board before Reed is sworn in.
UPDATE: KWMU has Shrewsbury saying, "No, that'll be my job."

And new Dave Drebes Players songs will be up today, tomorrow, or this weekend.

March 06, 2007

Daly Days are Here

KWMU.

February 26, 2007

School Choice Before the House Again

Missouri Pro-Vote is asking voters to contact their State Representatives and encourage them to vote against the Betty L. Thompson tax credit/scholarship program (SB 808).

The bill is scheduled for debate in the Missouri House today.

The program would provide tax credits for 65% of funds donated by individuals to "education assistance programs" which will fund scholarships for under-achieving kids (under 2.5 GPA) from low-income families (families whose income is just above the eligibility level for reduced-fee lunches). The bill targets Missouri's larger urban districts, St. Louis and Kansas City.

The tax credit can not exceed the donor's Missouri tax liability and the "education assistance programs" (the programs who would administer the scholarships) would be restricted from collection more than $40 million. In addition, the taxpayer making the donation is restricted from donating on behalf of a dependent.

Opponents of the program argue that it constitutes a voucher program and that the credits take money away from schools that need it and give it to schools that are better off, or to private and parochial schools.

As it is currently written, the scholarship would be limited to an average of $5,000 which would be given to the district accepting the student. Money is distributed to school districts based on their enrollment figures, thus if the district has a net decrease in students, the funds also decrease.

However, the accepting district accepts the scholarship in-lieu of the standard amount they would receive from the addition of students.

Based on data from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education the average spent on Missouri students in 2006 was $8,221. St. Louis City: $10,872.00; Clayton (a district a number of St. Louis students attend through the voluntary transfer program): $15,248.31; Kirkwood (again with a number of city students): $10,133.52.

An article in St. Louis Commerce Magazine estimated figures for private education in the area. Parochial elementary schools $3,800 to $5,000; Parochial high school: $5,700. Non-parochial high school $3,500 to $8,900 [a commenter said tuition runs more in the $8,500 to $10,000 range].

Currently districts accepting students through the voluntary transfer program (VICC) receive funds equivalent to what the state would give their home district.

Financially the program may seem like a better deal for parochial and private schools, but a number of districts have demonstrated strong support for the VICC program despite the reduction in funds the students bring with them.

There are philosophical disagreements and fiscal impacts that have not been evaluated yet. There are also a lot of details to be worked out, the "education assistance programs" have not yet been created, though their limits are defined in the law.

Rainford: Don't Kill the Messenger

In a post on MayorSlay.com, the Mayor's chief of staff, Jeff Rainford, presses the point that the dispute between Comptroller Darlene Green and Slay is in fact a difference in policy between the Aldermen and the Comptroller. Slay was, in this case, merely the messenger.

It was, in-fact, the Aldermanic Black Caucus who proposed spreading the BJC-Forest Park lease revenue based on wards, not geography, and Slay noted he was offering the amendment at their request.

Alderman Terry Kennedy, 18th ward, chair of the Black Caucus, said after the meeting Friday that there was no ill will between the aldermen and Green for her preference for her plan over theirs.

"She's just trying to make sure we get where we are trying to go," said Kennedy.

Slay also voiced his agreement with BOA President Jim Shrewsbury's insistence that the language Green wanted was part of the process that lay exclusively with the BOA and should be dealt with there. A position Green dismissed as a technicality saying the Board of Estimate and Apportionment's support would give guidance to the aldermen when it comes before them.

That said, the back-and-forth between Slay and Green was, for all those present, as charged as any.

Green stood her ground, and certainly took the Mayor to task for his lack of support for her language, going to far as to accuse Slay of "not being serious" about getting the lease. Given Slay's consistent support, its hard to see him willing to take a gamble on the deal.

Because of the hours of time and substantial effort Green and her office have put into hammering out the best deal possible (and they certainly earned the city a far better deal), it is clear why Green wants to make sure the commitments she made in exchange for supporting the issue make the final cut.

Slay later said that though he supported Green's language in order to gain her approval for the lease, there were no such stipulations in the lease agreement; nor would their likely be.

Green's language will go before the Board of Alderman and she and her office have publicly taken a tough bargaining position and can claim victory in bringing the city a better deal. They can also point to publicly holding the lease to a higher standard by calling for more stringent regulations on the lease, use or purchase of park land.

That win-win-win situation may help ease the burden of proof with some who oppose the deal on principle. Some, however, they will never bring along, such as the Citizens to Protect Forest Park who are opposed to the sale or lease of any park land unless vote on by the voters.

"Such issues need to be determined by the people in the polling booth, no politicians and powerful special interests in back rooms," the group said in a release.

The group wants any lease or sale involving park land to go to the voters, a move the Mayor and others say is flawed and may result in all manner of standard practices to go before the voters: practices such as rental fees, physical changes or short term agreements such as a recent one with Shakespear in the Park which will allow them to build some semi-permanent facilities.

February 25, 2007

"It's not easy being Green"

I have to steal Charles Brennan's line on the BJC-Forest Park deal from Donnybrook last Thursday night: "It's not easy being Green."

It didn't get any easier on Friday.

If the first Board of Estimate and Apportionment meeting on the BJC deal was marked by Comptroller Darlene Green's silence, Friday's meeting on the same issue was marked by her fury.

The special meeting, called by Green, was intended to approve the BJC lease, with Green's new conditions; but it ended with threats to pull the plug on the deal.

At issue was how the funds freed-up thanks to BJC's $2 million lease would be spread among the city's other parks.

Green focused on the geography and wants at least half of the $1.2 million the city currently spend on Forest Park to go to parks north of Delmar.

Mayor Francis Slay attempted to forward language supported by the Aldermanic Black Caucus that focused on the ward boundaries and distributed the funds based on the wards; the 14 wards represented by African-American aldermen and two with majority African-American voters (the 17th and 20th).

Green argued the change defeats the point of promising the north-side parks greater attention since redistricting could move wards across town. This most famously happened in the contentious redistricting in 2001 when the 20th ward move from north city to south of Gravois Rd.

The move seemed to outrage Green who accused Slay of not being serious about passing the lease. Slay initially abstained from the vote on Green's proposal.

"You're not voting on the first item indicates you are not serious about the lease with BJC," said Green.

"This is outrageous," said Green after the meeting. She referred to Slay's amendment as "onerous".

And so it went, with feint and dodge Slay and Green parried with procedure. Slay and Green faced off with the only weapon they had, the BJC lease.

Slay's attempts to explain his position were often overrun by Green who insisted on an up-or-down vote on the whole package. As an added incentive, Green's language also included a $2.5 million penalty if BJC further expanded into Forest Park. A deal, she insisted, BJC supported.

All the while, Shrewsbury stood aside. He has made his opposition to the lease known. That said, he opposed Green's proposal saying it was a "purely legislative" move that is the exclusive purview of the Board of Aldermen.

In the end, Slay approved Green's language in order to gain her approval for the BJC lease.

"I changed my vote for the good of the cause," said Slay after the meeting.

Slay's half-hearted support was not lost on Green. Green assured the assembled that she would refuse to sign the lease if the Board of Aldermen do not include her conditions. According to Mayor Slay, Green does not have that ability.

"This is a ministerial act and she does not have the discretion to sign or not to sign," said Slay.

The Board of Aldermen has been asked to hold two special meetings to address the legislation creating the BJC lease.

Despite apparent forward progress towards passage, the lease deal has been a bruising process.

Opponents of the deal were not happy with Friday's events.

"Back room politics is running the city today," said Carla Scissors-Cohen who heads-up Citizens to Protect Forest Park.

The debate has even brought old faces to the table.

"This is all politics," said Irv Clay a former alderman who now works in municipal recreation on the East Coast. "If it's so important, why not let the people vote."

The Board of Aldermen will have the final approval, but the last vote on the issue was 24-2 in favor; 4 more than necessitated by the city charter for major leases. Given the likely support for the Black Caucus' amendment (how many will vote against kudos for their colleagues?), Green is not likely to find satisfaction.

Green has gambled away her final bargaining chip by signing off on the BJC deal. Despite her threat not to sign the lease if it is passed by the board without her language, she will have to debate whether she wants to take it all the way to the courthouse.

February 22, 2007

Jake takes on Use Again

TV Investigation.

Thursday Stew

SLACO conference is coming up. Mayor Slay will give the introduction in the morning, Peter Raven is the keynote, and Senator McCaskill will speak at lunch. Workshops in between.

Cities make you skinny.

Kotkin on affordable cities.

Shrewsbury touts the Carpenter District Council endorsement.

February 16, 2007

Blunt: My way or...

Included in a press release from Governor Matt Blunt's office communicating the Governor's desire to see bipartisan support for his bucks-for-bricks MOHELA plan was an interesting passage.

The governor made it clear that without bipartisan support it is likely the original project list for colleges and universities included in the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative will change. This action could mean that some education facilities might not achieve the initiative’s full benefits.

Someone on the Gov's staff may not realize that this weapon isn't loaded.

Last week a Republican-controlled Senate Education Committee already took it upon themselves to cut a number of projects from the $350 million MOHELA plan. Democrats, including St. Louis State Senator Maida Coleman, were quick to point out that most of the $115 million in projects that hit the cutting-room floor were all proposed for institutions in Democrat-controlled areas. In St. Louis that meant cuts of $5.5 million from a CORTEX-related facility at Harris-Stowe State University and $5.5 from the Center for Emerging Technology at UMSL.

The Republican leadership already demonstrated they are willing to cut millions from Democratic districts, any chance the Governor's statement will encourage their support?

In addition, the same day those changes were made in the committee the Governor's office released this statement:

“I am pleased that the Senate is moving forward with important higher education reforms and the Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative."

It's most likely that the Gov's office may have seen a belated chance to try and juice some lemons. Each week that passes seems to punch a little leak in Blunt's Discovery Initiative.

Democratic skepticism is far outweighed by conservative opposition over the potential that the buildings may one day be used in stem-cell research. Sam Lee of Campaign Life has been a major thorn in the side of Blunt's plan to boost Missouri's role in biotech research. Despite the deep cuts made by the Education Committee, pro-life groups are still unconvinced.

Now word comes today that a financial advisor to MOHELA has turned the light from green to yellow while changes in student loan programs at the federal level are straightened out. The potential impact could reduce the deal's value by millions.

Originally a chance to parlay the assets of a successful program into funding to give Missouri an expanded role in the Biotech race, the Governor's program seems to have heightened old tensions and risks the possibility that the MOHELA assets may be squandered on investments that don't reap the rate of return, political or financial, the Governor wanted.

February 15, 2007

AFSCME Endorses Gondolfi in 20th Ward Race

Galen Gondolfi, candidate for alderman in the 20th ward, received the endorsment of the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), AFL-CIO, Local 2730.

From the release sent out Tuesday:

In recognition of the work that Galen Gondolfi has done to better the lives of St. Louis’ working families, the executive board of AFSCME Local 2730, chaired by Pres. Quincy Boyd, has voted to endorse Galen Gondolfi in the March 6th Democratic primary.

The rest after the jump.

Continue reading "AFSCME Endorses Gondolfi in 20th Ward Race"

February 13, 2007

Woods Memorial This Saturday

A service will be held in honor of former Lt. Gov. Harriett Woods Saturday morning at Powell Symphony Hall, 718 N. Grand Blvd. from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The trailblazing Woods, 79, died last Thursday of leukemia. Woods is survived by three sons, a sister, nine grandchildren and countless women who credit Woods as an inspiration and mentor.

Among them is the first woman elected Senator from the state of Missouri, Claire McCaskill [Note: Thanks to Antonio for the correction. Sen. Jean Carnahan was the first woman Senator, but she was appointed to finish the late Mel Carnahan's term after his posthumous victory in 2000 before being defeated by Jim Talent in 2002]. McCaskill is rescheduling a Congressional trip to Iraq to accept an invitation by Woods' family to speak at Saturday's service.

“Harriet Woods was an amazing woman who taught me lessons that I use each and every day. I am honored and humbled to be able to talk about what her wisdom and leadership meant to Missourians,” said McCaskill in a press release.

Tuesday Flakes

File under Small Pond:
The treasurer of Kennedy's newly-formed statewide committee is James A. Majewski. He's is also deputy treasurer for "First Senatorial Political Party." The treasurer of that committee, Christopher Schoemehl, is also husband and treasurer for State Rep. Sue Schoemehl, cousin to former Mayor Vince Schoemehl, and of IBEW.

Zweifel new Dem Brain:
House Minority Jeff Harris has appointed state Rep. Clint Zweifel as chairman of the Strategy and Policy Development Committee of the House Democratic Caucus. In this newly created role, Zweifel will take a key role in formulating innovative legislation based on Democratic principles and priorities. Zweifel, who is serving his third House term, represents the 78th District, which includes parts of Hazelwood, Florissant and Bridgeton in North St. Louis County.

Willis in 26 is touting an endorsement from the St. Louis Labor Legislative Club.

While the MO Leg debates various anti-immigrant policies, the Southside Bosnian Services Collaborative reports that the Southwest Bank at Kingshighway and Chippewa has recently hired Bosnian-speaking employees to better serve the Bosnian community with new account creations, loans, etc.

February 12, 2007

Monday Trivia

Match the state senator with the car.

1. Frank Barnitz
2. Joan Bray
3. Scott Rupp
4. Brad Lager
5. Luann Ridgeway

A. Volvo
B. Lincoln
C. Camaro
D. Mountaineer
E. Yukon

Bowman Successor?

Though John Bowman, D-Northwoods, hasn't set foot in court yet, speculation has already begun on who might replace the recently indicted state rep if he is found guilty on criminal charges.

The St. Louis American's Political Eye column took a peek at possible a candidate last week for the still-occupied 70th state house seat.

Indictment doesn't mandate resignation for Missouri legislators. That decision–if warranted–will be made by Bowman; barring that the legal case doesn't force his hand sooner.

Bowman was indicted last month in a credit card fraud case along with 16 others including a Bank of America VP.

February 09, 2007

Board Notes

The Board celebrated Black History month in its last session before the spring break. Part of the celebration included the recognition of James R. Clark, Eugene "Teddy" Willingham, Khaleed Munir, James Moton, Bessie Will Taylor Morehouse, and Elder Ernest A. Byrd. The resolutions are here.

Alderman Lewis Reed was recognized by his colleagues this morning. The alderman, whose 6th ward seat was up for reelection this year, gave up his position to run for President of the Board of Aldermen against the incumbent, James Shrewsbury.

During an action by the board recognizing the work of former State Senator Pat Dougherty, Alderman Steven Gregali, 14th ward, lamented the imposition of term limits that drove the St. Louis Democrat from office. He was followed in his 4th District seat by Jeff Smith.Dougherty praised the board's work saying they deserve a "greater debt of gratitude."

Alderman Matt Villa's WiFi bill swept through the board of aldermen this past week. Introduced last Friday, it was given its second reading Wednesday and passed this morning. Alderman Lewis Reed asked to be added to the bill.

It should be noted that when passing the legislation authorizing Ball Park Village, two alderman kept a low profile; Aldermen Quincy Troupe, 1st ward, and Lewis Reed, 6th ward. The two aldermen were present at the meeting, but cast no vote. The two aldermen voted in favor of the bills on Wednesday.

Springtime at the BOA

Several armloads of gift boxes from the tony Saks were delivered to the Alderwomen of St. Louis this morning. They arrived courtesy of one of the board's most popular former alderman, License Collector Michael McMillan (Cupid he may be, just don't call him cherubic).

McMillan has earned a reputation for his generosity around holidays. Ida Goodwin Woolfolk noted Macmillan's legendary gift list at his swearing-in ceremony last month saying it numbered near 3,000.

No details on what lay beneath the bows, but chocolate and cookies have been popular in the past.

Bulldoze the Ghetto?

In response to flyers handed out at City Hall this morning warning of plans to "Bulldoze the Ghetto", Alderman Freeman Bosley, Jr., 3rd ward, said the concerns were overblown.

The anti-eminent domain groups are going, "off the chain," said Bosley. He said their actions were instigating fear among residents.

Bosley said no action to blight the land can happen without aldermanic approval and neither he, nor the other aldermen in the area have been asked.

"They are just wrong," said Bosley.

The flyers were passed out by members of Citizens for the Near Northside. Topped by the headline "Plans to 'Bulldoze the Ghetto'", the flyer includes a map sketching out a rough trapezoidal area bounded by Delmar to the south, Natural Bridge to the North, Interstate 70 to the East and North Grand to the west. The area at risk includes Bosley's 3rd ward, April Ford-Griffin's 5th Ward and the currently vacant 19th ward (soon to be occupied by Committeewoman Marlene Davis who is running unopposed).

The organization says the Blairmont Group–made up of a dizzying array of small real estate companies–is poised to reap the benefits of future development in the near north side. Northside urbanist and dedicated observer of developement, Michael Allen, has mapped out the numerous properties attributed to the group and written a history of his search on his blog.

The alleged linchpin in the effort is the future of the Pruitt-Igoe site. The 34-acre, city-owned property, is slated for future development and the St. Louis Development Corporation is expected to request proposals later this year.

Friday News

Harriet Woods passes.

Myrtle French passes.

Rachel Storch will head the HDCC (not Jake).

Clint Zweifel is looking at the Treasurer's race.

Margaret Donnelly is looking at the AG race.

Sam Page is looking at the Lieutenant Governor's race.

Robin Wright Jones takes reins of Black Caucus.

Carnahan office sit-ins to continue today.

Washington Post's Fix on Blunt-Nixon.

Insiders say Temporiti is front-runner for MO Dem Party Chair.

BJC-Forest Park

The discomfort was palpable in the silence following Mayor Slay's motion that the Board of Estimate and Apportionment sign off on legislation approving the BJC-Forest Park deal.

Neither Aldermanic Board President James Shrewsbury or Comptroller Darlene Green, Slay's two colleagues on the city's top board, moved or uttered a sound. Slay's request hung there until Slay, clearing his throat, continued on with a short statement acknowledging the sincerity and hard work of all the groups involved, for and against.

Slay thanked Green for her and her office's efforts in negotiating a deal with BJC, even if she didn't support it in the end.

"Thanks to you and your office, this bill is much better than it was," said Slay.

Though gracious in defeat, the Mayor couldn't hide his wish the deal had passed.

"I can't tell you how disappointed I am," said Slay. He noted it was ironic the decision would come on the same day the New York Times ran an article recognizing St. Louis' efforts to foster the biotech industry in the Cortex district. BJC is a major partner in the district.

"I was unaware of the Comptroller's position when she walked into the room," said Slay when asked after the meeting if he was surprised at the Comptroller's decision.

That said, Slay seemed a bit ruffled at the outcome of the meeting.

On the flip side, opponents of the deal were ecstatic.

"We did it!" said Carla Scissors-Cohen of Citizens to Protect Forest Park, who called her husband to tell him the news. "This is a victory for the citizens of St. Louis."

"You can fight city hall," said Scissors-Cohen. "You can fight city hall if you feel the city is doing something not in the interest of the city."

Green said during the meeting that her decision not to support the deal was influenced by Protect Forest Park's successful petition initiative. In April voters will decide whether the sale of park land should be put to a city-wide vote, or be left in the hands of elected officials.

"I believe in the democratic process," said Green. "I don't believe it is the time to vote in lieu of the petition."

Afterward, Green said she would continue working with both parties to find a compromise position saying there must be "give and take on both sides."

Scissors-Cohen, however, said there would be no sale of any park land. City leaders, she said, would have to find another way to fund park maintenance.

Proponents of the BJC-Forest Park deal say it is an effort to help BJC expand its patient facilities and offices and that the millions given annually to the park by BJc were part of the price, funding park maintenance did not drive the deal. The section of park south of the main building–which BJC currently has a lease on and is home to an underground parking garage–was the most convenient place to add more hospital rooms and offices.

Given the orthodox position of the Protect Forest Park supporters, its is unlikely that Green's "middle ground" exists for them and they will put the pressure on anyone who supports any expansion onto the parcel.

Alderman Joe Roddy, 17th ward, was disappointed the deal failed. BJC is in his ward and he has talked at length about the enormous positive impact they have had in his ward which, not long ago, teetered on the brink.

"I hope we can salvage some of the construction projects," said Roddy, on his way into the Board Chambers. "I hope we can salvage some of the jobs."

February 06, 2007

Protesters "sitting in" Carnahan's Office

The protest to demand a public statement from Russ Carnahan opposing the surge is continuing at this hour in the Congressman's Manchester office.

There are about a dozen protesters outside the office and five women, including ACC contributor Angie O'Gorman, are inside and refusing to leave. The lone staffer, Carnahan communications man Glenn Campbell, hasn't yet called the police to forcibly remove them, apparently content to wait them out.

Who will win this duel of patience?

UPDATE: 10pm - Police are on the scene.

Man's Best Friend Also Does Endorsements

(Via the Kansas City Buzz Blog)
Maria, a three-month old toy poodle, is backing the Funk in this month's Kansas City Mayoral primary.

KC Candidate Mark Funkhouser is turning to one of his newest supporters, Maria, a 3 month-old toy poodle, in a web ad for his campaign.

In a Mr. Ed style move, Maria (aided by a dollop of peanut butter and a voiceover by an 8 year-old girl) sings Funkhouser's praise in the ad.

The KC candidate will likely bring the sunshine with him. Funkhouser was the city auditor from 1988 until his retirement in 2006. The former social worker is also a regular columnist for Local Government Auditing Quarterly, a journal he edited for eight years.

Kansas City Star columnist Steve Kraske wrote Sunday that Funkhouser is a solid second place. A good thing in the KC system where the top-two primary finishers go on to the general election in March.

You can watch the ad on Funkhouser's website.

BJC-Forest Park and the BOA President's race

As PubDef noted, the Board of Estimate and Review will hold a special meeting Wednesday at 10 a.m.There is no agenda posted online, but the BJC-Forest Park deal is likely the matter at hand.

The three-member Board of E&A must approve sign off on the deal for it to pass.

Question is, will this issue impact the race for President of the Board of Aldermen? Incumbent Board President James Shrewsbury opposes the proposed deal while Alderman Lewis Reed, 6th Ward, voted in favor of Board Bill 376CS which authorizes the lease between the city and BJC.

The group Protect Forest Park rounded up nearly 28,000 signatures, more than enough to swing the election one way or the other (and likely not far off the turnout for this March). The question is, will those who signed the petition vote? And will the candidates make an issue out of it?

Historically, the March primary has a low turnout. This election is likely to be close and a handful of votes in each ward could make or break a candidate.

Those green "Our Park is Not For Sale" signs are all over the city, in Shrewsbury strongholds as well as Reed's ward.

The issue seems tailor-made for the Shrewsbury, if he wants to make an issue of it. It's not a simple A or B situation, but "save our park" has a bit more zip than "investment and protection". Throw in an activist group working the television cameras everywhere they can, pushing the message, and the fact that it may draw in a few new voters and there may be a couple hundred votes in your favor.

Turning the issue against Shrewsbury may also be tough. Alderman Steven Gregali, Ward 14, called out Shrewsbury over his seemingly contrary positions when it comes to public space. Gregali asked how Shrewbury could support the creation of an animal shelter on a portion of Arsenal-Ellendale Park but oppose BJC expanding onto a portion of Forest Park.

Shrewsbury's response: The BJC deal is, essentially, giving public land to private interests while the animal shelter addresses a public need and no public money would be spent on it (construction is financed by the Animal House Fund. Operations will be paid for by the city which will transfer them from the old shelter once the new facility is open).

Shrewsbury really squares the circle by pointing out that the old shelter will be used to store materiel currently stored in Forest Park, freeing up greenspace in the park.

That said, the BJC deal will funnel $3.8 million a year into maintenance and upkeep for Forest Park, freeing up $1.6 million a year in city funds for other city parks. The deal would also allow the city's largest employer to expand its mammoth campus. The expansion will add more hospital beds to the busy hospital.

Will it be an issue? Or will the outcome of the E&A meeting give it the feeling of inevitability or victory, sapping it of any electoral weight?

February 05, 2007

Jetton: legislator weakened law against gay couples adopting, mislead colleagues

House Speaker Rod Jetton, R-Marble Hill, pulled the committee assignment of a fellow Republican over a change in Jessica's Law. The legislator, Rep. Scott Lipke, R-Jackson, removed 14 words in the law that would have banned gay sex in Missouri. The removal also weakens regulations banning adoption by gay couples.

The Columbia Daily Tribune has a copy of the letter Jetton sent explaining his decision to remove Lipke from the Crime Prevention and Public Safety committee. Jetton said no one caught the change in the final version when the 46-page law was passed last year. Lipke's change was removed in the Senate version, but Lipke reinstated it when it came back to the House.

Jetton conceded that Lipke's assertion that the law was unenforceable because of a 2003 Supreme Court ruling was correct, but said the move was a "big deal" because it makes it easier for gay couples to adopt.

Jetton ended saying that legislators felt they couldn't trust Lipke because of his failure to alert anyone to the original change, or his decision to reintroduce the change after other legislators removed it.

O'Brien: My signature still needed; members playing politics with students

While the overwhelming vote of the speakers gathered at Harris-Stowe State University last Tuesday was opposed to a possible state takeover, there was one dissenting voice that thrilled at the prospect: Board President Veronica O'Brien; who occasionally laughed to herself, rocking back and forth, seeming to enjoy the audience's boos, hisses and outbursts.

Though she said it was important everyone involved feel they have a chance to speak, her mind was made up.

"It can't come soon enough," said O'Brien before Tuesday's hearing.

As a publicly elected official calling for the dissolution of the office for which she has been elected, O'Brien is in a unique position. Additionally, oppposition to the takeover from parents, teachers and community leaders adds to her precarious position. A petition calling for O'Brien's resignation has even popped up (as of today, Steve Patterson's petition has reached 197 total signatures including Bill Purdy and Bill Haas). [Note: the petition only asks for her resignation from the board president position, not the board itself.]

That said, O'Brien is not backing down from her position on the board. Last Monday the school board voted 4-3 to give the board secretary, Flint Fowler, the legal power to sign off on contracts. A growing stack of unexecuted contracts tipped the scales in favor of the decision.

Before last Tuesday's public hearing O'Brien said the move changed nothing and that her signature, as board president, is still required. She contends that the board will now have to run down two signatures.

"If [Board Vice President Bill Purdy] and the others are trying to expedite [the process], its not happening," said O'Brien.

Asked about O'Brien's comments later in the evening, SLPS Board Member Peter Downs disputed her claim. Downs said the board secretary now has the legal authority to sign off on contract and that only one of the two signatures is required.

The Board President said the Monday meeting (at which her authority was watered-down) was a clear example of the need for a transitional board. She also said the board members were attempting to "govern by resolution" and that improving the district's health required more than a "few simple political tricks."

O'Brien emphasized that the district is not a legislative body, but a community of children whose futures are at stake. If the members want to play a parliamentary games, they should run for a city or state office, she added.

February 02, 2007

Krewson's Crackdown Delayed

Alderwoman Lyda Krewson, 28th ward, delayed the final passage of her scrap seller ID bill, which attempts to cut down on the number of scrap thefts that plague the city, to address scrap dealers' concerns over payments made by check.

Krewson's scrap thief crackdown measure will require scrap yards to keep detailed descriptions of materials purchased and the sellers, including the seller's license plate number, their photo, and a copy of their id. Those who fail to comply would face a $500 fine, 90 days in the city workhouse, or both, for each violation.

The delay did not keep the rest of the aldermen present from simultaneously asking to be a co-sponsor of the measure. Almost before Krewson had completed her description of the bill, several alderman were at the microphones.

Alderman Kenneth Ortmann, 9th ward, after requesting to become a co-sponsor, applauded a bill and described the type of situation the bill attempts to eliminate. Ortmann described an incident in his ward in which a suspect was caught by police after he was witnessed absconding from a building with copper downspouts. Police found several receipts from the sale of scrap metal to a local yard.

Krewson said she hoped to finalize the details next week.

January 29, 2007

Tax Increase? Or Tax Correction?

St. Louis Post-Dispatch columnist Bill McClellan may have to refigure his calculations regarding his speculation that Gov. Matt Blunt may be Presidential Candidate Blunt in 2012.

A key part of the calculus has been Gov. Blunt's steadfast opposition to tax increases, a story in the Kansas City Star's Jeff City Capital Notebook column may have found a hiccup in the plan.

So [State Rep. Shannon Cooper, R-Clinton, who opposed the late Gov. Holden's move to "close tax loopholes" in 2003] was asked last week what he would call Blunt’s plan to require phone companies and certain rental businesses to pay sales taxes. The change would net $30 million in new revenue for the state.

The Republican governor’s budget staff had called it a clarification of existing law.

“It’s a proper way to pay a tax,” Budget Director Larry Schepker told reporters.

Blunt, who has often promised never to raise taxes, made the same argument Friday — he was just clarifying the law.

So, is Blunt proposing a tax increase?

Cooper looked uncomfortable for a moment, but then replied, “Yes, I would call this a tax increase.”

Speculation about the Governor's future has been rampant; Congressman, Senator, Vice President to Gov. Mitt Romney in 2008, and occasionally, President. The Presidential speculation likely grew from the combination of being the son of a prominent Republican, Rep. Roy Blunt, and a potential precedent in President George W. Bush.

The speculation has continued unabated despite the face the first-term Governor has faced consistently low poll numbers (A SurveyUSA graph shows him consistently in the 30's since May of 2005, with men giving him slightly higher marks averaging around 40).

Update: Virginia Young at the Post-Dispatch has more details on the tax changes; potentially $60 million total, split between state and local goverments. In addition, the lawsuit that led to the correction may force the state to pay back incorrectly-assessed taxes; potentially $300 million or more.

January 26, 2007

It Takes A Village

The ghosts of developments-past may have been swirling at the feet of the aldermen during a presentation on the $387 million Ballpark Village at a noon meeting of the housing and urban development committee today.

Wind repeatedly blew open the door leading to a narrow balcony off the Aldermanic Chambers and swept into the chambers; sending Alderwoman Young scrambling to secure her newly liberated paperwork.

Mayor Francis Slay's development director, Barb Geisman, and Alderman Fred Wessels, 13th ward, who chairs the committee, gave the gathered a rundown of the financing and what the Cordish company plans to build in return for the $59 million in TIF financing the city is providing the development.

As with other TIF financing, the city is redirecting a portion of the taxes to be collected once the project is up and running to provide bond financing for the project.

Geisman stressed that no general revue is given directly to the developer, the project generates its own funding. However, the city forgoes a portion of tax revenue generated in the development.

That being the case, Geisman estimated that even after the TIF gets its cut, the city will still receive an average of $3.5 to $4.5 million in revenue annually over the next 23 years. Over that same time period, city schools could expect $2.3 million annually.

The development will carry its own tax to fund the project. A bill introduced to the Board of Aldermen today creates two taxing districts, a TDD (transportation development district) and CID (community improvement district). They are estimated to generate $24 million for the project through a 1% sales tax and $1 ticket tax.

An interesting figure crops up here; it's estimated that 1.3 million tickets will be sold annually. The Cardinals came in 5th in overall ticket sales in 2006 behind the Red Sox (4th), Cubs (3rd), Yankees (2nd) and Broadway hit musical Wicked (1st). In March of 2006, the Cardinals had sold 3,020,500 of 3,531,377 available 2006 tickets (minus post-season) or 85%.

Alderwoman Lyda Krewson wanted some assurance on the project. Other developers had begun with high-end retailers such as Ann Taylor, which is one of the potential retail [clients] being tossed around by Kordish.

"I remember St. Louis Center," she said. "Now you can't even by pantyhose there."

Alderman Wessels assured that this project was different with a focus on drawing pedestrian traffic, offering entertainment to draw non-baseball crowds and integrating a residential component in the form of 250 condominiums now with the potential for more in the future.

Geisman said the retail portion could draw from the approximately 6 million visitors to Bush Stadium and the nearby Arch complex.

On the job front, the project could generate 2 thousand new jobs including jobs in the new class-A office space being created.

The Cordish Company's national connections would help in drawing business interest from around the nation for both the retail and office space, said Wessels.

Five bills establishing the project were introduced in this morning's session, BB's 407, 409, 410, 41,1 and 412.

Another hearing will be held on Wednesday January 31st.

It's hoped that the project will break ground this summer and be ready when the first pitch crosses the mound in 2009.

BJC expansion is one step closer.

Whether an extended soliloquy from Alderman Joe Roddy, 17th, did the trick or the members had their minds made up is unknown, but the Board of Aldermen endorsed the 9.4 acre Forest Park-BJC land lease agreement with little discussion.

The bill received 22 votes in favor and two no votes: Aldermanic President James Shrewsbury (whose opposition he has made very clear) and 22nd Alderman Jeffrey Boyd.

Aldermen Terry Kennedy, 18th, and Frank Williamson, 26th, were present but voiced no vote.

After the meeting, Carla Scissors-Cohen, a spokesperson for Protect Forest Park said they were not dissuaded by the aldermen's lopsided support.

"We know the citizens are behind us," said Scissors-Cohen, noting that the organization collected nearly 28,000 signatures to place the issue on the April ballot. "So no, its not over yet."

Scissors-Cohen is correct. The board's endorsement certainly eases the bill's path, but the surveyors shouldn't break out their yellow spray-paint yet. The three-member board of Estimate and Apportionment must still okay the bill.

There the agreement's future will lie in the hands of Comptroller Darlene Green who, along with Mayor Francis Slay and Board President James Shrewsbury, sit on the board of Estimate and Apportionment. Slay has he will support the bill, and Shrewsbury will put it down.

A phone call to the board of E&A yielded no word on whether the agreement will be held at the next regular monthly meeting on February 21st, or is a special meeting will be held.

Shrewsbury said that no special meeting of E&A has been scheduled as of this afternoon.

Ald. Lyda Krewson, 28th ward, Ald. Alfred Wessels, 12th ward, (co-sponsors of Roddy's bill) and Ald. Freeman Bosley, Sr., 3rd ward, spoke in support of the deal.

Krewson called the park the "crown jewel" of St. Louis. The combined $3.8 million annually that would be placed in a trust for the park "is not enough", and reminded the board that the park was not always the high-traffic destination it is now and without proper funds to keep up, it could slip backwards. She said the trust was essential for her support since it will prevent aldermen from getting their mitts on the funds.

Bosley emphasized the role BJC plays in supporting public health in the city. As the city grows, he said, it would take a large organization like BJC to keep up.

Bosley summed up his support as only Bosley can. "I don't care how much green-space you have out there if you are sick and you are dying," he said.

As the deal currently stands, the city would lease to BJC 9.4 acres of the segment of park that lies east of Kingshighway and north of Clayton road, much of which is currently leased to BJC which operates a subterranean garage under the trees, courts and playground.

In exchange:
• BJC will set aside 15% of the newly leased are for green-space.
• Deposit $2 million into a trust to maintain Forest Park.
• BJC will spend $1 million to improve some facilities in the remaining section.
• Forest Park Forever has pledged $1 million a year for upkeep.

Currently the city spend $1.6 million on Forest Park, the combined $3.8 million, supporters argue, will allow the city to spend that $1.6 on other city parks that have been all-to-visibly neglected in years past. Alderman Wessels added that an additional $1.8 in capital improvement funds is also spent on the park but that due to a bond deal 20 years ago $1.35 goes to fund the bond, bringing the potential annual funding to approximately $4.25 million. In 10 years, the full $1.8 will be available to the park.

The Aldermen are busy today

Bills relating to Ballpark Village and the Forest-Park BJC deal are on for today.

A crowd sporting "Save our Parks" t-shirt has gathered in the gallery to watch for the outcome.

We'll let you know if we hear the sound of broken hearts.

January 23, 2007

SOTU Reactions?

Text of the speech is available here.
Any reactions to President Bush's State of the Union address? What about the Democratic response by freshman Senator Jim Webb?

Any guess as to how many people watched Veronica Mars on Channel 11 instead?

One area I was surprised to find little meat was health care.

To counter the escalating costs and difficulties related to modern health insurance, the President proposes monkeying with taxes. The White House released a rather murky explanation of the proposal on Monday. In essence, those who receive health insurance as a benefit from their employer will find it taxed. Others will receive a subsidy in the form of a tax deduction.

The tax deductions may provide savings for some, but may also channel people towards the high deductible, low-premium policies that provide little beyond "disaster" policies.

Those whose low incomes push them in the direction of these policies often don't have the cash to cover co-pays. Others who do have the income may merely take the deduction and pocket the difference.

It's not the disaster you have to worry about, its the nickel-and-dime things that undercut the foundation of good heath. They can lead to long-term problems that quickly outstrip most individuals coverage.

The proposal offers a national variation on the Romney and Schwarzenegger plans which subsidizes private health insurance for low-income state residents. However, instead of spreading the costs to doctors, health insurers and hospitals, individuals who get health insurance from their employer as a benefit will find a new tax.

Given that approximately 46 million people are uninsured in the U.S. and millions more go without at some point due to changes in their lives, a more substantial plan might be in the works.

ProVote asks Sen. Bond to back Minimum Wage.

Missouri ProVote is asking voters to call Sen. Kit Bond to encourage him to support raising the minimum wage. The U.S. House of Representatives passed a similar measure almost two weeks ago with six of the nine members of Missouri's delegation voting in favor. Joining the four Democratic Representatives, Reps. Kenny Hulshof, R-9, and Jo Ann Emerson, R-8, voted in favor of the increase.

The bill is currently before the Senate which is expected to vote to end debate today or tomorrow with the final vote likely next week.

If passed, the bill will increase the federal minimum wage from $5.15 to $7.25 by 2009.

In November, Missouri voters approved an increase in the state's minimum wage from $5.15 to $6.50 an hour with an overwhelming 76% of the vote. Several communities have challenged the measure in court due to a provision in the law that removes the overtime exemption allowed fire and police departments. The law states that all wage-earners working over 40 hours earn overtime, no exceptions. Currently, police and fire earn overtime under a different formula due to the unique scheduling.

If the federal increase passes, Missouri will be required to adopt the new federal minimum wage.

Missouri Tech Ed needs a boost

Gov. Matt Blunt commented that Missouri's low scores and declining participation in the math and science fields is less about innate ability and more to do with encouragement and opportunity.

"It's not because we are inherently bad at math and science," said Blunt.

To address the decline, the governor introduced an initiative Monday to increase interest and student achievement in math, engineering, technology, and science.

Blunt's plan includes:

• $2.9 million to create 100 "tech" classrooms in 100 schools statewide to assist teachers in integrating technology in classroom instruction.
• $250,000 in training for teachers and administration.
• $250,000 to cover part of the cost of taking math and science advanced placement tests.
• $100,000 from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to train more AP teachers.

The recommendations were part of a consultation with the METS Coalition, a group of businesses including Boeing, Fleishman-Hillard, the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and others interested in fostering a tech-based farm team in Missouri from which to develop potential future employees. The coalition was kicked off at a summit held by the Governor last spring.

The coalition is assisting DESE in developing school curriculums and some members help directly through the Show-Me scholars mentoring program.

Deb Hollingsworth, chair of the coalition and vice-president for external affairs at SBC, said the members had spent a great deal of personal and professional time on the project.

Hollingsworth called it a "moral imperative" that they, "demand more from our students and give them the tools."

The governor noted after the presentation that Missouri is competing on the world stage with China, India and other nations.

"This is why we have this alliance," said Gov. Blunt. "This is why we have this initiative."

January 21, 2007

Blunt at 37%

As he approaches the State of the State speech on Wednesday, a SurveyUSA poll shows that the Governor may have some heavy lifting ahead of him.

Progress in the next year, or the lack thereof, may determine the first-term Governor's future. His deliberations have drawn national attention. Long-term political analyst–and Republican in the know–Robert Novak isn't banking on Blunt's re-election.

In a column in Human Events (Gov. Blunt recently penned a treatise on the future of conservatism in the publication), He notes the combo of the topic's conspicuous absence at a recent planning session and his very visible friendship with '08 candidate, Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney (hat tip to the CDT Political blog).

January 17, 2007

Universal Coverage: not-so socialized medicine?

While Democrats are certainly wary of having "Hillarycare" hung around their necks again, it seems that the debate over the form of a universal-style healthcare system has moved from inter-party to intra-party.

Republican Governors Mitt Romney and Arnold Schwarzenegger have unveiled new programs that propose to provide health care for every citizen of their state through a mix of mandates and subsidies. They are not the single-payer systems that conservatives are loath to see created, but they may represent its early stirrings.

Not surprisingly the two Governors–both from states with a distinctly moderate-to-left leanings–have come under fire from conservatives who see it as an attack on the "free market" system that insures us all; minus the roughly 47 million who go without.

Continue reading "Universal Coverage: not-so socialized medicine?"

January 12, 2007

Round Number Two

On the heels of Public Service Commission hearings seeking input on AmerenUE's request for a 17.7% rate increase, forecasters are predicting another blast from Dr. Freeze. Exactly which part of the St. Louis area will be effected by a wave that a KSDK forecaster, this afternoon, said has the potential to glaze the area with as much ice as December's storm.

The National Weather Service is predicting a half-inch of accumulation or more through the weekend.

AmerenUE has released a statement saying:

AmerenUE officials say they are preparing as they do for each storm by placing crews on alert and readying equipment and communications systems with the forecasted approach of yet another major winter storm.

“During severe storms, AmerenUE’s first priority is to correct potentially life- threatening situations, such as downed power lines or hospitals without power,” says Richard J. Mark, senior vice president, Missouri Energy Delivery. “We then implement carefully designed power restoration plans focused on getting power back on for the greatest number of people in the shortest amount of time.”

He adds that the safety of the public and the crews working to restore power is the most critical priority. In restoring electricity, crews begin with main lines--those that serve thousands of people. Then they move to lines that can affect hundreds; secondary lines that affect dozens; and finally to service lines at individual homes.

A call for comment has not yet been returned.

Governor Matt Blunt released a statement this afternoon saying he had activated the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in anticipation of requests for aid.

The immediate St. Louis city area could potentially be spared the worst of the storm. The dividing-line between the northern below-freezing temperatures and the southern, slightly above-freezing temperatures is likely to bisect the metro area.

That said, it's off to the store to stock up on de-icer and purchase a new ice scraper; the last one having been destroyed last time we were told we'd be spared.

January 09, 2007

6th ward Yard Signs

Cacchione = Blue
Saller = Red
Triplett = Purple

January 08, 2007

Ameren and the Growing Storm

More than 120 people turned out at the University of Missouri-St. Louis' student center this morning to voice their concerns to the Missouri Public Service Commission over AmerenUE's request for a 17.7% rate increase, approximately $360.7 million.

AmerenUE says the average residential customer would see an increase of six dollars a month, based on 1,000 killowat-hour usage per month.

The PSC's hearing brought out residents and elected officials alike.

Sen. Joan Bray (D-University City) was the first to speak. Bray commented that she always said, "AmerenUE was a well run company," when it came to ensuring a, "return to its investors."

Bray also warned those present that AmerenUE was not only asking for a rate increase, but to be allowed to include a fuel surcharge and environmental cost recovery in future billing. Even if the general rate increase is rejected, she said, the surcharges, which are permitted by a bill passed by the Missouri Legislature in 2005 (SB 179), may still be applied.

Approximately 45 people signed up to give sworn testimony before the committee. The board also noted that customers could submit statements by mail or through the PSC's website.

Two of the PSC Commissioners, Steve Gaw and Linward "Lin" Appling, asked questions of those testifying. Doug Healy, assistant to the chairman, also appeared as a representative of PSC Chair Jeff Davis.

The complaints were detailed. James Strawhun of Florrisant has kept an record of outages in his neighborhood since 1992. He submitted his log saying the number of incidents has increased since AmerenUE took over service.

University City Councilman Byron Price, 3rd ward, cited his own records of outages. He said opposed the increase because of service issues which he said, "Cause tremendous financial hardship, medical issues and potential loss of life."

Price criticized AmerenUE spokespeople who claimed that this year was different because the storm had been one of the "worst in history". Noting that he worked as a forecaster for Southwestern Bell in his younger days, Price received loud applause saying, "This is not the greatest storm in the history of St. Louis."

One woman wanted the PSC to consider the effect of a rate increase on the elderly and others on fixed incomes.

PSC commissioner Steve Gaw asked staff to drive out after the meeting to photograph evidence of neglected maintenance behind the home of Bethany Porter of Ferguson, who has experienced 12 outages in the past four years.

The staff of the PSC has already recommended against a rate increase saying that based on an audit of AmerenUE's books, the utility is over-earning by $136-168 million.

The PSC will continue to hold hearings and take testimony in the coming months.

Blunt in Boston

In a move likely to add fuel to the speculation about Blunt's plans for the future, the Governor is spending the day in Boston visiting Gov. Mitt Romney at the presidential-hopeful's day-long, milllion-dollar fundraiser.

Poised on the top floor of Boston's convention center, Romney's fundapalooza brought together friends and supporters from around the nation in an effort, "to form a bond with each other, and chat with the governor." Romney's team hopes to pull in $1 million from around the country, the first step in an ambitious drive to raise $50 million by June.

Some of the current speculation surrounding Gov. Blunt's future (driven mostly by his non-committal comments regarding re-election) has Blunt as a possible V.P. nominee in a Romney Presidential run.

Post-Dispatch columnist Bill McClellan lays out how Blunt could skip second-chair 2008 and go right for the center ring in 2012. Governors have had a great deal of success in rising to the land's highest office, but how does the speculation jive with Blunt's consistent–and unshakeable–low polling numbers.

McClellan is dead-on in that any potential future for the Governor will likely hinge on his handling of the Medicaid transition. President Bush made his mark in education reform, which he brought to the national level in the form of No Child Left Behind, which has received mixed-marks from educators (The NCLB's fifth anniversary was Sunday, January 8).

AmerenUE Public Comment Today, Tuesday

AmerenUE is having three public comment sessions in St. Louis this week (Post-Dispatch via John Combest).

— 11:30 a.m. Monday at the University of Missouri at St. Louis, the Century Room in the Millennium Student Center, 1 University Boulevard, Normandy.

— 5:30 p.m. Monday at the St. Louis Community College at Forest Park, Highlander Lounge of the Student Center, 5600 Oakland Avenue, St. Louis.

— 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at Wentzville School District central office board room, 1 Campus Drive, Wentzville.

January 05, 2007

Former Post Editor Campbell Dies

Former editor-in-chief of the Post-Dispatch, Cole Campbell, died in an single-car accident in Reno, Nevada this morning. Campbell was editor of the St. Louis daily from 1996 to 2000. He was working as dean of the journalism school at the University of Nevada, Reno.

From the AP.

Friday Stew

A Conversation with Activist Percy Green: “Why You Must Raise Hell!”
January 9, 2007…7 p. m. at The Schlafly Branch Library, 225 N. Euclid Ave.

Mr. Green will share highlights of his life as an activist in St. Louis and the value of non-violent protest. Mr. Green will also outline the various roles citizens can take in the continued struggle for equality and social justice. For more information or to register, call the Schlafly Branch @ (314) 367.4120

Congratulations Fred!
You are invited to attend the 131 FW SVF Assumption of Command on 6 Jan 06 at 1400 in the Dining Hall Annex. Captain Fred Hessel will assume command of the Services Flight at that time. Captain Hessel comes from the Logistics Readiness Squadron where he was the Operations Officer. Please join the Services Flight in welcoming Capt Hessel to his new position.

Happy Birthday to Bob Byrne, former editor of the City's Newsgram.

January 02, 2007

McMillan Sworn In

Missouri Supreme Court Justice Ronnie White administered the oath of office to the city's new License Collector, Michael McMillan, this morning before a sea of supporters and well-wishers. The former 19th ward alderman was elected in November with an overwhelming 82%, defeating his Republican opponent Pat Herod.

The Kennedy Hearing Room at City Hall was filled to the brim with friends, family, fellow aldermen, city officials and some of McMillan's constituents.

"They don't mind treating this place like Fox Theater; standing room only!" said Ida Goodwin Woolfolk. Woolfolk emceed the swearing in and lightly roasted the newly-minted License Collector calling him, "the cosmopolitan gentleman."

"He's a little like a little old man," said Woolfolk of McMillan's quest to know what her remarks would be.

She mostly praised McMillan who spent a decade representing the 19th ward, a ward she called a "paragon of progress." The ward has seen over $1 billion in investment since 1997. Woolfolk said McMillan is a devout Catholic, perpetually driven in his work, and exceptionally generous. She noted that his gift list this year was nearly 3,000 names long including constituents, colleagues and students.

Mayor Slay–who may be praising his successor if the prognosticators are correct–said McMillan has "tremendous leadership skills" and is able to cross all boundaries, racial, ethnic and geographic, "North, South and Central."

Slay also included a brief New Year's benediction noting that 2006 was a great year for the city with new homes, new residents and new businesses; but there's more to come.

"I promise you, 2007 will be better," said Slay.

McMillan's speech was one befitting someone who, some say, will rise as high as he choses. He made sure to acknowledge many of the people his career has brought him into contact with, both as alderman and in his preparations for the new office; and wove them into a story that described both his career and the city's redevelopment.

McMillan thanked Woolfolk, his supporters and his family and said he was, "happy to join Jim Sonderman and Mayor Slay in the former alderman club." He also acknowledged the work that all office members devote to the city saying, "we are only as good as our staff."

He quoted from Martin Luther King's "Conquering Self-Centerdness Speech," which talks about the need to set aside personal concerns for the good of the many. He also reiterated his five-point promise to revamp the License Collector's office: aggressively pursue revenue; improve technological access through online services; streamline the paperwork; crack down on fraud; develop the best trained customer service staff possible.

McMillan said he would build upon the efforts of his predecessor, Gregory F.X. Daly, who is moving across the building to the office of the Collector of Revenue.

"St. Louis is doing things right," said McMillan. "We are moving in the right direction."

Afterward Alderman Lewis Reed, 6th Ward, said McMillan will do a great job. Reed recounted a time when the two were working on a project and received a 3 a.m. phone call from McMillan wanting to talk over an issue after Reed told to call him "anytime".

"He's as hardworking as they say," said Reed.

Daly looks forward to working with McMillan in bringing new revenue to the city.

"He understands business and knows government," said Daly. Daly added that to increase revenue, the license collector will have to use persuasion as well as the sticks the office provides, something he is more than capable of.

A resident of the 19th ward was pleased to see McMillan's success.

"He's been my alderman for years and I can pick up the phone and call him for anything," said Robbin.

In his remarks, McMillan talked of working to increase revenue for the city. Part of his job may have been done for him by the voters who, in August, approved a bump up in the graduated business tax rates. The rates will be assessed based upon the size of the business. McMillan also plans to begin a crackdown on the businesses that slip past his office and make sure they also pay their fair share.
[final paragraph edited for clarity]

December 27, 2006

6th Ward Endorsement War Continues

Forwarded email:

Dear Supporters:

My campaign website is now up and operational. It is www.patcacchione.com. You will see on my site that the 6th Ward has extended the deadline for people to join the 6th Ward and vote on the 6th Ward endorsement on January 18th at SqWires. There are two ways people can join:

1. Send $5 to Tom Nolan at 2401 S. 11th Street St. Louis, MO 63104 before next Thursday

or

2. Send me the names and my campaign will submit them with a check from the campaign.

Although I disagree with the second option for ethical reasons, one of my opponents has made this a president and it was part of the compromise in extending the membership deadline. Please let me know if you have any questions and please encourage your friends and neighbors to join the 6th Ward by next Thursday or to contact me. Thank you.


Patrick Cacchione
(314) 265-5335 (cell)
(314) 664-1362 (Fax)

December 26, 2006

Losing A Seat?

National Journal's The Hotline and Taegan Goddard's Political Wire take a look at new, 2006 census figures and some estimates on how projected population numbers will affect the post-2010 Congressional redistricting.

Both cite studies that conclude Missouri will likely lose a seat in Congress if current trends in population change continue. The Election Data Services study (PDF 84kb) cited by Political Wire explains some of the potential permutations. At best, however, they predict Missouri can expect to hold on to its nine seats.

Not long ago, while talking over drinks at a social function, a Democratic staffer voiced concern over the potential loss of the venerable 3rd Congressional District if the Republican Party were to maintain control until 2011. The 3rd is home to Rep. Russ Carnahan (D) who, in 2004, succeeded the indefatigable former Democratic leader Rep. Dick Gephardt (1989-1995 majority leader, 1995-2003 minority leader) who had announced his retirement. The idea was that the 3rd would be redistricted out of existence or into irrelevance by cleaving out voters Republicans believe are leaning in their direction.

This came in the more cautious/pessimistic time several weeks out from the election when Democrats were just getting used to seeing defeat snatched from the jaws of victory on the national stage.

Even given the recent upturn in the balance of power, there are no solid projections that guarantee the Democrats will be in control when the numbers come up in 2010.

Either way, Missouri is likely to join Iowa, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania in losing a seat (or more, depending): what shape will Missouri's Congressional representation take in 2011?

December 24, 2006

No Football For You

On a lighter note this Christmas eve...

Rams fans may find a bit more time to wrap their presents this afternoon; in keeping with a policy to ensure the league's coffers are filled with care, the Rams broadcast will be blocked out for the first time since 1995.

Apparently, since the Rams fans are busy traveling or spending time with families rather than attending the Christmas eve game, the rest of St. Louis will be denied the spectacle while sipping on egg nog and shooing children away from presents tucked under the tree.

In order to coerce, ahem, encourage fans to pack the stadium, NFL policy dictates that if fans doesn't sell out the team's home game, they also lose the possibility of watching it on television.

Now, instead of watching Isaac Bruce and Marc Bulger, St. Louis gets to watch the anthropological study that is Cops. While there is plenty of pursuit, footwork and tackling: watching the police force of [insert city here] take out a half-naked pcp addict who tried to rob a convenience store with a biscuit is not quite the same thing.

Not being a regular follower of football, combined with the Rams 11-year streak of sold-out home games, I never noticed the blackout policy. Major football fans would be justified in being incensed at the treatment. Instead of the carrot of lower prices and family packages, the NFL (not singling out the Rams for this, it's league policy) is quick with the stick.

The Rams and their fans have been lucky; fans have shown up at the Dome even in lower-performing periods. Some cities are lucky to see half a season on television. Even still, restricting access to your product is not a way to grow your market.

Now where, you might ask, is the political angle? The Rams season opened under the threat of a blackout. Then-Senate candidate Claire McCaskill helped get the Rams over the hump by purchasing 100 tickets and giving them to kids.

No such luck for the season finale with 3,000 unsold tickets.

December 21, 2006

Elephants on the Web

The Hotline's On Call notes that a growing dominance of College Republicans on the popular (and potentially infamous) Facebook networking site is due in no small part to the Missouri College Republicans.

These posting pachyderms hold title to the largest college political group on the network with 2,966 members. Outgoing Mo College Republican head Justin Smith rounded up the herd by scouring the wilds of the Facebook world (for confirmation of the pitfalls of mixing digital cameras and online networks of college students merely Google "Facebook" and "Wonkette").

Continue reading "Elephants on the Web"

Compromise Reached in 6th Ward Dispute

We just received this email:

6th ward endorsement update

There has been a compromise reached between Kacie Starr Triplett and Patrick Cacchione regarding the 6th Ward endorsement meeting. In order to ensure inclusiveness and attempt to strengthen our Democratic Party, the deadline to join the organization has been extended until December 28th at 6pm. All members who have joined the organization at that point and are registered to vote in the 6th ward will be allowed to participate in the ward election. We encourage all interested Democrats to participate. Both Mr. Cacchione and Ms. Triplett would like to thank Alderman Lewis Reed for his role in reaching this compromise.

For any Comments or Questions please call 314.537.7624.

December 20, 2006

Rainford talks crime on MSNBC

Mayor Slay's Chief of Staff, Jeff Rainford appeared as a guest on MSNBC's "The Most" today to talk about the city's increasingly widespread image as "the most dangerous city".

Referring, assumably, to Morgan Quitno, the Kansas publisher that hung the moniker around the citys neck, Rainford said the ratings were done by someone who, "doesn't know anthing about crime and doesn't know anything about statistics," but wants to push a product.

Morgan Quitno publishes statistical guides to city and state rankings.

Admitting there were five or six neighborhoods that drove the figures, Rainford said the city is working to reduce crime through improving the schools and attacking recidivism through job training.

The city is also employing an anti-crime "strike force" to focus on the main perpetrators.

These efforts have led to a decrease in crime in the last six months of the year, figures not included in recent evaluations, said Rainford.

A report in yesterday's Post-Dispatch examined FBI figures for the first half of the year which showed an increase in overall crime since 2005, but that the increase was in line with similar cities with populations of 250,000 to 499,999. The one outlier was the number of rapes, something St. Louis Police Chief Joe Mokwa attributed to an improved, "impeccable", reporting system over previous years.

December 18, 2006

6th Ward

The scene Monday evening at Pestalozzi Place was strangely reminiscent of elementary school complete with name-calling, note passing, and even Jamilah Nasheed being told to turn around in her seat.

Before the 6th Ward Executive Board meeting even started, Mary Entrup vehemently voiced her displeasure to Kacie Starr Triplett’s over Triplett’s allegations of racism.

Entrup and others claimed that the board members had no way of knowing the race new organization members. Triplett stood by her original accusations, asserting that race could have been surmised by a person’s address and the fact that Triplett brought in their name.

Lewis Reed, 6th Ward Alderman and candidate for Aldermanic President, showed up long enough to express his view on the issue, defending the board against accusations of racism.

Despite it being held in a public restaurant, Board members claimed the meeting was private and some obviously took issue with the onlookers, including bloggers Steve Patterson and Antonio French, and Triplett supporters. Whether the meeting was private might have been clearer if the organization’s by-laws were available. However, the by-laws are still MIA.

Ultimately, the executive board did not make a decision on the new members, rescheduling the discussion to a later date and a more private space.

UPDATE: Latest post on Triplett's website.

December 17, 2006

Starr's statement

Up on her website.

December 15, 2006

Haas Splits His Hand, and May Lose One Quickly

Almost before the website could reload, Post-Dispatch reporter Jake Wagman's post that the perpetual candidate, Bill Haas, has filed to run for the St. Louis School Board was superseded by word that the State Advisory Committee is recommending state intervention.

The committee recommends the appointment of a three-person transition committee to oversee the district. The Board of Aldermen, School Board and Mayor Francis Slay each select an individual. After 90 days the School Board selection is replaced by a person recommended by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and chosen by Gov. Matt Blunt. Before anything moves forward, expect legal challenges.

Haa's decision is unusual, but there is a logic to it. The aldermanic primary is in March and the school board election is in April. He could lose his race for aldermen and still run for school board, as area he has a bit more experience in.

For all his campaigning (school board, state rep, and mayor–four times) the one area he has had success was on the school board. He was first elected in 1997 after abandoning his mayoral hopes, and was reelected in 2001. His prospects may have dimmed a bit since then.

His 2005 mayoral campaign was marked by exceedingly personal public revelations including the admission that he was contemplating suicide if his fortune didn't change for the better. More recently, he landed a 27% showing in the August primary against Rep. Rodney Hubbard for the 58th state house seat.

While the state house race may have been too big for an underfunded candidate like Haas, the aldermanic campaign might be too personal and too local. Current 18th Ward alderman Terry Kennedy succeeded his father, the late Samuel M. Kennedy, in the seat in 1989. Samuel Kennedy held the seat for 21 years before he died of a heart attack. Overturning a 38-year history is difficult for even the best-funded and well-known candidate.

That said, Haas works as hard as anyone out there.

December 14, 2006

Bond On Intelligence

Missouri Senator "Kit" Bond was appointed to the Senate Intelligence Committee. Bond will serve as the senior Republican on the committee, replacing Sen. Pat Roberts (R-Kansas) who is moving to the Senate Finance Committee.

Roberts tenure raised the ire of Democrats who accused him of dragging his feet on investigations into intelligence matters, particularly an investigation into how the administration used the intelligence on potential Iraqi weapons programs in the lead up to the invasion of Iraq, the so-called Phase II report.

---
Two sizes too small?

In other news from the capital, Republicans blocked a severance package crafted by House Democrats for Republican staffers who will lose their jobs in the transition from the 109th to the 110th Congress. The package would provide up to two months of salary while committee and leadership staffers look for new jobs.

Despite that only Republican staffers will benefit from the bill, Republicans nixed it saying it was a last-minute "dark-of-night" type of bill. "...It is not a precedent we want to set haphazardly," said Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif).

A spokesman said it would be up to the leadership to handle it when the 110th Congress convenes on Jan 31, 2007.

Shakeup on Cherokee

Word is that there was a major turnover in the Cherokee Business District at Tueday night's meeting; Shirley Wallace is apparently out as head.

What affect might this have on the 20th Ward race? Wallace once accused Aldermanic candidate Galen Gondolfi of selling "drug-laced gumballs" so no love is likely lost there.

Given the growth occuring along Cherokee, the businesse association could play a major role in who comes out ahead in the March primary.

Schmid has tended to his neighborhood well, but Gondolfi is one of the local business owners who believe Schmid has done a good job guiding the neighborhood out of a bleak period, but that his protective nature may be stifiling new growth.

December 12, 2006

Aldermanic Gallery

In an effort to support local artists, and perhaps spruce up one of the elegant but sparse spaces in City Hall, the Board of Aldermen will have a rotating installation in the Leisure Conference Room which is adjacent to the board chamber, Room 230.

The conference room is part of the Aldermanic offices on the second floor and is host to many of the board's committee meetings. It's a bit out of the way for many visitors to City Hall, but anyone stopping in at the main board office, Room 230, should take a quick look.

Currently the work of local architectural photographer Ken Konchel decks the walls. Konchel uses a 4"x5" large-format camera and silver gelatin printing to capture his subjects; in this case, buildings in St. Louis.

A number of Aldermen played the "guess which building I am" game as they stopped to admire the photos and speak with Konchel, who was on-hand after last Friday's meeting where the board recognized him as the inaugural artist. Many of the photos focus on unique architectural elements, not full shots of the buildings.

Konchel's work has been featured in a number of solo and multi-artist exhibitions locally and nationally; most recently, a solo exhibit at the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago.

Brandyn Jones, who represents the board president's office on issues relating to development and the arts, and Pat Connigan, who is both the clerk and the attorney to the board, were among those who chose the selection of photographs.

And for those who note these things, and I know you're out there, the actual installation (which is more than just making them level, it involves selecting how the work is arranged, which, for the artist, can change how they would like their work viewed) was handled by the services department.

The photos will be up until mid-January when new work will be selected.

Gov. Blunt's Conservative Prescription

Governor Blunt lays out a plan for Conservative rebirth and cites Missouri as an example of early progress towards their goal.

I am the first Republican governor in 80 years with a Republican House and a Republican Senate, but in 2006 we experienced only small losses in our General Assembly, and Republicans still command large majorities in both houses. In a difficult year nationally, we even beat incumbent Democrats. And some of our policies explain why.

• When we ran for office we told Missourians that government needs to be smaller and more accountable.

• In just three decades, the size of Missouri’s government grew from $1.4 billion to $19.4 billion. In 1971, there were a little over 40,000 state workers. By 2004 there were more than 64,000.

• But in Missouri we committed to change and did what governments seldom do: we began to cut cost. In many departments we did not just reduce the rate of growth, we reduced actual costs. We have created a culture where leaders and managers know that they will be rewarded for cutting their budget and reducing their size.

• We actually have reduced the number of state employees. The fiscal 2007 recommended full-time employee total is under 60,000 for the first time in nearly a decade and I am committed to not going above that number during my service as governor..

(Via Combest)

December 11, 2006

Missouri is Lead-Emitter Leader

From today's Post-Dispatch (Via Combest):

Three of the seven largest point sources of lead emissions were in Missouri, according to a 2002 inventory cited in the EPA report…[including the Doe Run smelter in Herculaneum]. The other two sources in Missouri are mining in Reynolds County and secondary smelting in Iron County.

Industry representatives are calling for a relaxation in standards for lead emissions which the EPA is currently evaluating. Draft EPA report is here.

Starr Opens Office

Kacie Starr's campaign office is located at 1218 South Jefferson.

December 10, 2006

Carnahan: Military can't impose democracy

Missouri Congressman Russ Carnahan (D-3rd) told Fox 2 News that there was a "consensus" that it was time to draw down troops in Iraq while increasing the existing training regimen. The Congressman seemed to ec