Board of Aldermen

Minutes St. Louis Board of Aldermen Meeting Regular Meeting Thursday, May 21, 2026 10:00am Board of Aldermen Chambers Minutes are preliminary and may change until finally approved by the Board 1. Call to Order Acting President Cohn called the meeting to order at 10:00am and directed the Clerk to call the roll. 2. Roll Call The Clerk called the roll and the following members answered to their names: Ms. Schweitzer, Mr. Oldenburg, Acting President Cohn, Mr. Narayan, Mr. Devoti, Ms. Velázquez, Ms. Sonnier, Mr. Browning, Ms. Clark-Hubbard, Ms. Keys, Ms. Tyus, Ms. Boyd, and Mr. Aldridge. 13 members were present. A quorum was established. 3. Opening Reflection or Prayer Acting President Cohn recognized Jordan Braxton, to lead the members in the opening reflection/prayer in honor of Transgender Day. Jordan led the members in an opening reflection/prayer. 4. Announcement of Any Special Order of the Day Acting President Cohn announced that Special Order of the Day will be the Courtesy Resolutions Calendar. Acting President Cohn invited Mr. Aldridge to the dais with his guest Jordan Braxton for Resolution Number 28, celebrating the 2026 Transgender Day Visibility. At the dais Acting President Cohn asked the Clerk to read Resolution Number 28. The Clerk read Resolution Number 28 in its entirety. Mr. Aldridge discussed his resolution. Other members speaking included Ms. Velázquez and Acting President Cohn. Ms. Velázquez moved to place Resolution Number 28 En Banc. Seconded by Mr. Browning. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to En Banc Resolution Number 28. Page 1 of 17  The motion carried unanimously by voice vote. Acting President Cohn recognized Ms. Clark-Hubbard on the motion to adopt the Courtesy Resolutions Calendar. Ms. Clark-Hubbard moved to adopt the Courtesy Resolutions Calendar. Seconded by Mr. Browning. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to adopt the Courtesy Resolutions Calendar. The motion was carried unanimously by voice vote. Acting President Cohn paused the meeting so that the members could take a photo with Jordan Braxton. Acting President Cohn resumed the meeting after the photo. 5. Introduction of Honored Guests Acting President Cohn directed the meeting to the Introduction of Honored Guests. Acting President Cohn recognized members to introduced their honored guests. Members of the Board were allowed to recognize and introduce their honored guests. 6. Approval of Minutes Acting President Cohn recognized Mr. Aldridge on the motion for the approval of the minutes of the Friday, May 15, 2026 Full Board meeting. Mr. Aldridge moved to approve the minutes of the Friday, May 15, 2026 Full Board meeting. Seconded by Mr. Browning. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to approve the minutes of the Friday, May 15, 2026 Full Board meeting. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote. 7. Report of City Officials Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the Report of City Officials. The Clerk read the following: a) Report of the Clerk of the Board of Aldermen The following Board Bills from the 2026-2027 Legislative Session were Third Read and Finally Passed by the Board, signed by the President and delivered to the Mayor for their signature pursuant to law. The list below shows the Bill Number, Name of the Sponsor, the Description of the Board Bill and Date Delivered: Board Bill Number 9 Floor Substitute Introduced by Alderman Rasheen Aldridge Page 2 of 17  Cosponsors: President Megan Green/Mayor Cara Spencer/Alderman Shane Cohn/Alderman Bret Narayan/Alderwoman Daniela Velazquez/Alderwoman Alisha Sonnier/Alderwoman Jami Cox Antwi/Alderman Michael Browning/Alderwoman Shameem Clark-Hubbard/Alderwoman Laura Keys An Ordinance pertaining to compensation for employees under the classified service amending Ordinance 71963 approved February 2025, by amending the pay schedule in Section 2(c) and amending Section 7(a) by adding a new subsection of Section 7(a)(3). The provisions of the sections contained in this ordinance shall be effective with the start of the first pay period in which this ordinance is approved by the Mayor. Delivered: Friday, May 15, 2026 b.) Office of the Mayor Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District May 18, 2026 Honorable Board of Aldermen 1200 Market St. Room 230 Saint Louis, MO 63103 Dear Members of the Board, I have the pleasure to submit the following individual for appointment to the Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District • The appointment of Phil Schranck, serving as authorized representatives of the landowner, whose term will expire on September 30, 2028, fulfilling the expired term of Steve Garavaglia. • The reappointment of Dan Cook, serving as authored representatives of the landowner, DPLH, LLC, whose term will expire on September 30, 2028. • The reappointment of Scott Riley, serving as authored representatives of the landowner, DPLH, LLC, whose term will expire on September 30, 2028. I respectfully request your approval of these reappointment. Sincerely, Cara Spencer, Mayor City of St. Louis Acting President Cohn recognized Ms. Boyd on the approval Mayor’s appointment and reappointments to the Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District. Ms. Boyd made the motion to approve the Mayor’s appointment and reappointments to the Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District. Page 3 of 17  Seconded by Ms. Schweitzer. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to approve the Mayor’s appointment and reappointments to the Lighthouse St. Louis Community Improvement District. The Clerk called the roll, and the following votes were recorded. The following voted Aye: Ms. Schweitzer, Mr. Oldenburg, Acting President Cohn, Mr. Narayan, Mr. Devoti, Ms. Velázquez, Ms. Sonnier, Mr. Browning, Ms. Clark-Hubbard, Ms. Keys, Ms. Tyus, Ms. Boyd, and Mr. Aldridge. A total of 13 Aye votes were cast. The following voted No: None. The following voted Present: None. The following Abstained: None. The following were present but did not vote: None. A total of 13 votes were cast. The motion carried. c.) Office of the President None. d.) Office of the President None 8. Petitions and Communications None. 9. Board Bills for Perfection, Informal Calendar None. 10. Board Bills for Third Reading, Informal Calendar None. 11. Resolutions, Informal Calendar None. Suspension of the Rules Acting President Cohn recognized Ms. Tyus for the purpose of suspending the rules in order to introduce Board Bill Number 27 to the First Reading of Board Bill Calendar. Page 4 of 17  Ms. Tyus made the motion to suspend the rules in order to introduce Board Bill Number 27 to the First Reading of Board Bills Calendar. Seconded by Mr. Browning. Ms. Tyus spoke on Board Bill Number 27. Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to call the roll on the motion to suspend the rules in order to introduce Board Bill Number 27 to the First Reading of Board Bills Calendar. The Clerk called the roll and the following votes were recorded: The following voted Aye: Ms. Schweitzer, Mr. Oldenburg, Acting President Cohn, Mr. Narayan, Mr. Devoti, Ms. Velázquez, Ms. Sonnier, Mr. Browning, Ms. Clark-Hubbard, Ms. Keys, Ms. Tyus, Ms. Boyd, and Mr. Aldridge. A total of 13 Aye votes were cast. The following voted No: None. The following voted Present: None. The following Abstained: None. The following were present but did not vote: None. A total of 13 votes were cast. The motion carried. Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to place Board Bill Numbers 27 at the end of First Reading of Board Bills Calendar. The Clerk acknowledged. 12. First Reading of Board Bills Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the First Reading of Board Bills Calendar. The Clerk read the following: Board Bill Number 24 Introduced by Alderwoman Daniela Velázquez Cosponsor: Alderman Matt Devoti An ordinance pertaining to St. Louis Fire EMS Funding for Emergency Medical Transportation; repealing Section Three of Ordinance 71135 and enacting a new section on the same subject matter; and containing an emergency clause. Board Bill Number 25 Introduced by Alderman Michael Browning Page 5 of 17  Cosponsor: Alderman Shane Cohn An ordinance pertaining to water rates; finding, determining and declaring that an increase in certain water rates is necessary for certain purposes, defining certain terms; repealing and replacing parts of Ordinance 71683 which are presently codified as Sections 23.06.130, 23.16.025, 23.16.040, 23.18.015, 23.18.070, 23.20.015, 23.20.020, 23.20.030, and 23.20.040 of the Revised Code of The City of St. Louis (“Revised Code”) and amending parts of Ordinance 71683 which are presently codified as Sections 23.16.020 and 23.04.220 of the Revised Code; all having as their subject water rates and charges; and containing an emergency provision. Board Bill Number 26 Introduced by Alderman Rasheen Aldridge The Board Bill repeals Ordinance Number 71965 relating to the position, classifications and salaries of the Treasurer’s Office employees and enacting in lieu thereof a new ordinance dealing with the same subject matter and containing an emergency clause. The provisions of the sections contained in this ordinance shall be effective with the start of the first pay period following approval of the Mayor. Board Bill Number 27 Introduced by Alderwoman Sharon Tyus An ordinance providing for the execution and delivery of an Acknowledgement and Consent to assignment of the Amended and Restated Lease for the multi-family apartment building commonly known as the Homer G. Phillips Senior Apartments located at 2601 Whittier Street, and containing an Emergency Clause. 13. Reference to Committee of Board Bills Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the Reference to Committee of Board Bills. The Clerk read the following: Budget and Public Employees Board Bill Numbers 24 and 26 Health and Human Development None. Housing, Urban Development and Zoning Committee Board Bill Number 27 Legislation and Rules None. Personnel and Administration None. Public Infrastructure and Utilities Committee Board Bill Number 25. Public Safety Committee None. Page 6 of 17  Transportation and Commerce Committee None. Special Committee on Reducing Red Tap None. 14. Second Reading and Report of Standing Committees Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the Second Reading and Report of Standing Committees. The Clerk read the following: Budget and Public Employees Committee Report Mr. Aldridge of the Budget and Public Employees Committee submitted the following report, which was read: Board of Aldermen Committee Report May 21, 2026 To the President of the Board of Aldermen: The Budget and Public Employees Committee, to which the following Board Bills were referred, reports that it reviewed these Board Bills on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 and have discharged them with the following recommendations: Do Pass Recommendation: Board Bill Number 12 Introduced by Alderman Rasheen Aldridge Cosponsors: President Megan Green/Alderman Matt Devoti/Alderwoman Daniela Velázquez/Alderman Michael Browning An ordinance to regulate employer and employee working relationships between the City of St. Louis and all employees under the Classified Service, including a compensation plan, terms and conditions of employment, benefits, leaves of absence, and authorization for a Deferred Compensation Plan; repealing Ordinance 71963; allocating certain other employees to a grade with rate; and including an emergency clause. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after June 14, 2026, and shall remain in effect until amended or repealed by the Board of Aldermen. Do Not Pass Recommendation: None Without Recommendation: None Alderman Rasheen Aldridge Committee Chair 15. Report of Special Committees None. 16. Board Bills for Perfection – Consent Calendar Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the Board Bills for Perfection Consent Calendar. Page 7 of 17  The Clerk read the following: Board Bill Number 2 Introduced by Alderwoman Anne Schweitzer Cosponsors: Alderwoman Jami Cox Antwi/Alderman Michael Browning/Alderwoman Shameem Clark-Hubbard An ordinance recommended by the Board of Estimate and Apportionment authorizing the city of St. Louis Water Division to accept Community Water Fluoridation Equipment Repair and Replacement funding; appropriating said funds; authorizing the expenditure of such funds, to the extent received; authorizing contracts and other documents to expend such funds, to the extent received; and containing an Emergency Clause. Board Bill Number 11 Introduced by Alderwoman Shameem Clark-Hubbard The bill directs the Director of Streets to install speed humps pursuant to Ordinance Number 70333 as amended by Ordinance Number 71394 to calm the flow of traffic on the 5100 block of Vernon Ave. Acting President Cohn recognized Mr. Aldridge on the motion to adopt the Perfection Consent Calendar. Mr. Aldridge moved to adopt the Perfection Consent Calendar. Seconded by Ms. Schweitzer. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to adopt the Perfection Consent Calendar. Acting President Cohn asked to be added as a cosponsor to Board Bill Numbers 2 and 11. The Clerk acknowledged. The motion carried unanimously by voice vote. 17. Board Bills for Perfection Calendar None. 18. Report of Engrossment None. 19. Third Reading and Final Passage of Board Bills – Consent None. 20. Third Reading and Final Passage of Board Bills None. 21. Report of Finally Passed Board Bills and Signage by the President None. 22. First Reading of Resolutions and Reference to Committees None. 23. Second Reading of Resolutions, Committee Reports and Adoptions Page 8 of 17  None. 24. Courtesy Resolutions Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to the Courtesy Resolutions Calendar. The Clerk read the following: RESOLUTION NUMBER 25 MAVEN LOGIK WHEREAS, Maven Logik Lee is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, advocate, curator, nonprofit leader, and cultural strategist whose work over the past fifteen years has significantly impacted the City of St. Louis and communities nationwide; and WHEREAS, Lee has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to uplifting marginalized communities— particularly Black queer communities—through creative expression, cultural programming, and advocacy that centers visibility, healing, and empowerment; and WHEREAS, Lee is widely recognized as an influential figure in ballroom culture and has played a vital role in cultivating affirming spaces that foster self-expression, cultural preservation, and community connection throughout St. Louis; and WHEREAS, Lee’s artistic contributions span music, spoken word, theater, dance, and film, including serving as executive producer of the documentary Tens Across the Board, which has been featured in film festivals in Washington, D.C., London, and Atlanta; and WHEREAS, Lee has shared their talents nationally as a vocalist and performer and has contributed to the cultural vibrancy of St. Louis through performance, storytelling, and artistic leadership; and WHEREAS, Lee is the founder and co-founder of initiatives including Ballroom Together, The Shades Project, and Alkemy Arts, which uplift artists, preserve culture, and foster community dialogue through the arts; and WHEREAS, Lee has dedicated more than a decade to nonprofit and human services work in St. Louis, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness, housing insecurity, and mental health challenges through outreach, case management, and community care; and WHEREAS, Lee has contributed to education through service in St. Louis Public Schools and other institutions, supporting youth and families as a mentor, educator, and advocate for inclusive learning environments; and WHEREAS, Lee’s advocacy has also included public health outreach, sexual health education, and civic engagement efforts that encourage participation and empowerment within underserved communities; and WHEREAS, Lee’s contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including recognition as one of GLAAD’s Black Queer Creatives, inclusion in POZ Magazine’s Top 100 Black Advocates, and receipt of the Pioneer Award from Black Pride St. Louis; and WHEREAS, through a career rooted in service, creativity, and leadership, Maven Logik Lee continues to strengthen the cultural and social fabric of the City of St. Louis; Page 9 of 17 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis, that we hereby honor and recognize Maven Logik Lee for their outstanding contributions to the arts, education, advocacy, and community development, and extend our sincere appreciation for their continued impact on the residents and cultural life of the City of St. Louis. Introduced this 21st day of May, 2026 by: The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderman 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 26 HONORING ROSEMARY RAY WHEREAS, Rosemary Ray, born on July 13, 1961, is a proud North St. Louis alumna of Central High School whose life’s work has been defined by compassion, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting underserved families throughout the St. Louis region; and WHEREAS, for more than 30 years, Rosemary Ray has dedicated herself to improving the lives of individuals and communities facing hardship, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to humanitarian outreach, civil service, and social empowerment; and WHEREAS, as Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Buchanan Foundation, Rosemary Ray significantly expanded her impact during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading the organization to become a critical resource for vulnerable populations across the St. Louis metropolitan area; and WHEREAS, under her visionary leadership, the Buchanan Foundation has provided essential services including rental and mortgage assistance, utility assistance, food and clothing distribution, healthcare support for uninsured families, holiday gift programs, diaper and prenatal care assistance, prison reform advocacy, workforce development support, housing assistance, rehabilitation counseling, winter preparedness initiatives, and financial empowerment and educational outreach programs; and WHEREAS, Rosemary Ray has strengthened community impact through trusted partnerships with numerous organizations, including United Way, Toys for Tots, Ameren, the St. Louis Cardinals, Brown & Crouppen, Eddie Bauer, Faith Church, One Warm Coat, and Network for Good, thereby expanding access to vital resources for families throughout St. Louis City and County; and WHEREAS, Rosemary Ray exemplifies the highest ideals of servant leadership through her integrity, advocacy, and steadfast dedication to social responsibility, serving as a beacon of hope and a trusted voice for equitable access to opportunity and support; and NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis that we pause in our deliberations to recognize and honor Rosemary Ray for her extraordinary contributions to civil service, community advocacy, and humanitarian leadership. Introduced this 21st day of May, 2026 by: The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderman 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 27 HONORING MONTRELLE DAY Page 10 of 17 WHEREAS, Montrelle Day is a distinguished leader, advocate, and trailblazer within the Black LGBTQIA+ community, whose life’s work reflects a steadfast commitment to resilience, empowerment, and service; and WHEREAS, for over fifteen years, Montrelle Day has dedicated himself to uplifting his community, serving as a mentor, advocate, and guiding force for individuals seeking acceptance, identity, and belonging; and WHEREAS, as a legendary House Father within the ballroom community, Montrelle Day has cultivated inclusive and affirming spaces where individuals are encouraged to embrace their authentic selves, express their creativity, and build meaningful, lasting connections; and WHEREAS, his influence extends far beyond the ballroom scene, inspiring countless individuals to discover their voices, pursue their passions, and step boldly into their power; and WHEREAS, Montrelle Day has also exemplified leadership and service through his professional career, having served honorably as a deputy sheriff and later as a police officer, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and community protection; and WHEREAS, as a father figure and role model, Montrelle Day has provided guidance, support, and a nurturing environment for those who look to him for strength and direction, embodying compassion, accountability, and love; and WHEREAS, through his continued dedication, Montrelle Day breaks barriers, challenges norms, and redefines leadership by centering authenticity, service, and community empowerment; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Montrelle Day is hereby recognized and honored for his outstanding contributions, leadership, and enduring impact on the Black LGBTQIA+ community and beyond; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this recognition celebrates not only his past achievements but also his ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive spaces, uplifting future generations, and leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and change. Introduced this 21st day of May, 2026 by: The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderman 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 28 CELEBRATING THE 2026 TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY WHEREAS, International Transgender Day of Visibility is observed annually on March 31st to honor the lives, achievements, and joy of transgender, non-binary, and gender-expansive people while advocating for the protection of their essential civil rights; and WHEREAS, the St. Louis Transgender Community is proudly celebrating the 16th annual Trans Day of Visibility with a historic series of events titled "Visibility for Our Lives: 4 Days of Trans Visibility," spanning from March 28 through March 31, 2026; and WHEREAS, this celebration centers on five interconnected pillars of empowerment—Glamour, Confidence, Joy, Resilience, and Community Spirit—transforming the narrative of survival into one of thriving; and Page 11 of 17 WHEREAS, the festivities began with "Glam for Our Lives!" at the Trans Day of Visibility Black and White Gala, hosted by the Community Wellness Project’s “Gurlz Like Us!” featuring guest speaker and House Ballroom Hall of Famer Miasha Forbes and honoring those who advocate for the Black Trans community; and WHEREAS, the community gathered for "Reign for Our Lives!" to support Team Trans Midwest—Mr. Trans Midwest Mars, Mx. Trans Midwest Wes Wyman, and Miss Trans Midwest Jordan Braxton—celebrating the Confidence and artistry of the pageant community; and WHEREAS, the spirit of Joy was uplifted during "Party for Our Lives!" at Rehab Bar and Grill, celebrating the unique beauty and diversity of the St. Louis Trans community; and WHEREAS, the 2nd annual Trans March and Rally, "March for Our Lives!" saw residents march from Kiener Plaza to the steps of St. Louis City Hall, standing in resilience alongside vital organizations including the Metro Trans Umbrella Group (MTUG), Blue Max, Abortion Action Missouri, and Black Pride St. Louis; and WHEREAS, the celebration concludes with "Drag for Our Lives!" at the Grey Fox, a showcase of Community Spirit benefiting MTUG, Vivent Health, and Trans USA National Pageantry, featuring a cavalcade of premier St. Louis performers; and WHEREAS, the City of St. Louis recognizes that Trans Day of Visibility is not a day of mourning, but a day of empowerment, and we stand in solidarity with our transgender neighbors who show the world every day that they are "Visibility for Our Lives." NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis that we hereby recognize March 31, 2026, as "TRANSGENDER DAY OF VISIBILITY" in the City of St. Louis, and we commend the organizers and participants of "Visibility for Our Lives" for their courage, their joy, and their indelible contributions to our City. We further direct the Clerk of this Board to spread a copy of this Resolution across the minutes of these proceedings and to prepare a commemorative copy to the end that it may be presented at a time and place deemed appropriate by the Sponsor. Introduced on this 21st day of May, 2026, by: The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderperson, 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 29 RECOGNIZING BRINGING IT TOGETHER DAY WHEREAS, The Bringing It Together HealthFest returns on May 22, 2026 and the theme this year is, “Champion Your Health,” and WHEREAS, Bringing It Together began in 1980 at the Kiel Auditorium in the Exhibition Hall on the lower level and was founded and organized by Ollie M. Stewart; and WHEREAS, Bringing It Together was moved to the Convention Center before the organizers found its current home at the beautiful Muny Opera in Forest Park since 1986; and WHEREAS, this event is St. Louis’ own celebration of Older Americans Month when organizers honor area senior citizens for their contributions to all that makes St. Louis great and in recognition of their many activities and involvement in the community; and Page 12 of 17 WHEREAS, Bringing It Together is a HealthFest which brings information and exhibits to area senior citizens on elderly issues and the various services that are provided by different agencies and businesses related to health care, housing, aging and legislation; and WHEREAS, this event allows older Americans to enjoy a relaxing day at the beautiful Muny Opera in Forest Park filled with music, dancing, food, health and wellness booths, and intergenerational activities with youth. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis that we pause in our deliberations to recognize the Bringing It Together event. We further direct the Clerk of this Board of Aldermen to spread a copy of this Resolution across the minutes of these proceedings and to prepare a commemorative copy of this resolution to the end that it may be presented to those deemed appropriate by the sponsor. Introduced this 21st day of May, 2026 by: The Honorable Megan E. Green, President, Board of Aldermen Cosponsors: The Honorable Anne Schweitzer, Alderwoman 1st Ward The Honorable Shane Cohn, Alderman 3rd Ward The Honorable Alisha Sonnier, Alderwoman 7th Ward The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderman 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 30 HONORING THE LIFE OF DERRICK LAVAUGHN HODGES WHEREAS, Derrick LaVaughn Hodges was born on December 7, 1965, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Herman Hodges and Gloria Hodges; and WHEREAS, Derrick was a lifelong resident of the St. Louis community and a proud graduate of the Normandy School District; and WHEREAS, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and demonstrated his faith through daily devotion, scripture reading, and spiritual commitment; and WHEREAS, Derrick was known as a hardworking and dedicated employee across many workplaces, earning the respect and admiration of colleagues for his diligence, integrity, and pride in doing things the right way; and WHEREAS, he brought joy and laughter to those around him, possessing a warm and humorous spirit that uplifted family, friends, and all who knew him; and WHEREAS, Derrick was a devoted son who consistently showed love, care, and support to his mother, never hesitating to be present when needed; and WHEREAS, he leaves to cherish his memory his loving mother, Gloria McDaniel; siblings Byron Sparkling (Dianne), Michael McDaniel (Synetta), Angela Hodges (Benny Johnson), and Tara McDaniel; along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends; and Page 13 of 17 WHEREAS, his life and legacy reflect dedication to family, faith, and community, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we honor and celebrate the life of Derrick LaVaughn Hodges, recognizing his contributions, his character, and the love he shared with those around him; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that we extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones, praying that they find comfort and strength during this time of loss; and BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis that we pause in our deliberations to honor the life and legacy of Derrick Lavaughn Hodges. We direct the Clerk of this board to spread a copy of this resolution across the minutes of these proceedings and prepare a commemorative copy that it may be presented to the family of Derrick LaVaughn Hodges as a symbol of honor, remembrance, and respect for his life. Introduced this 21st Day of May 2026 by: The Honorable Rasheen Aldridge, Alderman of the 14th Ward RESOLUTION NUMBER 31 HONORING THE LIFE OF MS. VERA LEE AARON WHEREAS, Vera Lee (Wise) Aaron was born to the loving union of Albert Wise Jr. and Louvenia Clanton on November 25, 1951 in Dermott, Arkansas. She was the only child and was preceded in death by her father and daughter; and WHEREAS, Vera’s family moved to St. Louis, Missouri when she was 10 months old. Her parents instilled within her the values of service, leadership, family and community. As a child, Vera was tough and very protective of her friends and family. She would stand up against the biggest bully to defend the ones she loved. Vera was especially close to her aunts Ruth and Hattie, who have many stories to tell of her innovative experiments and brave adventures; and WHEREAS, she proudly attended St. Louis Public Schools; Waring School, Washington Elementary, Humboldt Elementary, Enright Middle School, Soldan High School and later attended Forest Park Community College. During her senior year at Soldan High School, Vera participated in an internship program at the Mart Building in downtown St. Louis, where she received a certification in Secretarial Studies. In 1969, upon graduating from Soldan, Vera started working at the Legal Aid Society as a Legal Secretary where she worked five years; and WHEREAS, during high school, Vera met Learon Aaron at which time they became close friends. In 1972, Learon and Vera were joined in holy matrimony and became devoted parents to three children: Learon (Pete) Aaron Jr., Cody Lashea Aaron, affectionately known as Baby Doll, and Yolanda Louvenia Aaron (still born). Vera was a loving caring wife and doting mother. She unselfishly gave her affection, time, nurturing and guidance to her children and family; and WHEREAS, on 1978, she professed her faith in Jesus Christ and was baptized at San Francisco Temple Church of God in Christ. She gave her life to God and lived each day following the path of a true believer; and WHEREAS, after leaving the Legal Aid Society, Vera worked at Homer G. Phillips (HGP) Public Hospital as a clerk in the Medical Records Department from 1975 to 1978. There she enhanced her secretarial and creative skills while starting life-long friendships; and WHEREAS, driven by a strong sense of pride in her work, Vera consistently invested her own time in specialized classes and training to elevate her capabilities; and Page 14 of 17 WHEREAS, throughout her career, Vera went on to work as an Administrative Assistant with several noted companies; San Francisco Temple Christian School -1983 to 2003; Board of Alderman City of St. Louis - 2005 to 2007; St. Louis Housing Authority – 2008 to 2014 (where she retired); and WHEREAS, always a creative spirit, Vera had a natural gift for picking up new skills and excelling at them almost instantly. At just ten years old, she learned to sew. She would make fabric patterns and sew outfits for her baby dolls. She also loved to tinker with things to see how they worked, which later led to her becoming a superb handy woman. What would start as a small idea would transform into a full weekend long project of building walls in her home, painting, reupholstering furniture or sewing couch covers and curtains in just a couple of days. She would tackle anything not letting fear stop her. Learon Jr. and Cody Lashea inherited their natural talents from both of their parents and channel this gift into a wide variety of artistic skills; and WHEREAS, throughout her life, Vera crafted numerous poems and writings, several of which were featured in local periodicals and magazines. In 2004, Vera chose the penname “Faizah” which means Victorious in the Swahili language. The usage of the name signifies a commitment to personal achievements and a drive to overcome challenges. In her life she gracefully embodied this ability; to boldly overcome challenges; and WHEREAS, Vera embraced life! She enjoyed painting, skating, watching movies, spending time out in nature, and learning new things. Most of all, Vera loved music. Music was a huge part of her life, and she always had songs playing at home, at work and in the car, off her Spotify playlist. If you know her, you know that her all-time favorite artist was Smokey Robinson; and WHEREAS Vera Lee “Faizah” Wise Aaron was a resilient, unique, kind, passionate, dynamic and amazing woman. She lived her life courageously, offered her love selflessly and would find a way to help anyone in need. She was a strong, brave and opinionated person that did not take no stuff from nobody! Vera is truly loved and will be dearly missed; and WHEREAS, it is important to know that Vera Lee was born a preemie. On the day she was born, the doctors told her mother, Louvenia, that Vera would not make it through the night. Louvenia knew not to put her trust in man, but to put all trust in The Lord God Jesus Christ for ONLY HE has the last say; and WHEREAS Vera Lee “Faizah” Aaron lived to witness 74 glorious years; and WHEREAS, Vera left behind to cherish her memories; her loving mother, Louvenia Wise, her hearts, children Learon Aaron Jr. and Cody Lashea Aaron, her ex-husband and dear friend, Learon Aaron Sr., her aunts who she grew up with, Jonnie Ruth Heard and Hattie Mae Ervin; grand & great grandchildren who she adored, (grandchildren) Emerald Mona’ Strong, Jayden Learon Aaron, Kiya Brea Aaron, and Myles Faraji Aaron-Mansco, (great-grandchildren) Elijah Strong- Nobles, Kaiden Strong-Nobles, and a host of cousins, family members and friends. THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Board of Aldermen of the City of St. Louis that we pause in our deliberations to honor the life and legacy of Ms. Vera Lee Aaron. We direct the Clerk of this Board to spread a copy of this resolution across the minutes of these proceedings and prepare a commemorative copy that it may be presented to the family of Ms. Vera Lee Aaron as a symbol of honor, remembrance, and respect for her life. Introduced this 21st Day of May 2026 by: The Honorable Shameem Clark Hubbard, Alderman of the 10th Ward. The Courtesy Resolution was adopted under the Announcement of Any Special Order of the Day. 25. Miscellaneous and Unfinished Business None. 26. Announcements Acting President Cohn directed the Clerk to Announcements. Page 15 of 17  The Clerk read the following: MONDAY, MAY 25, 2026 OFFICE CLOSED – MEMORIAL HOLIDAY TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026 HUDZ – 11AM – KENNEDY ROOM LEGISLATION AND RULES – 2PM - WEBINAR WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026 BUDGET AND PUBLIC EMPLOYEES – 9:30AM – KENNEDY ROOM THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2026 PERSONNEL AND ADMINISTRATION – 11AM – KENNEDY ROOM FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026 FULL BOARD MEETING – 10AM – CHAMBERS 27. Excused Aldermen Acting President Cohn recognized Mr. Aldridge on the motion to excuse. Mr. Aldridge moved to excuse Ms. Cox Antwi and President Green for necessary absence. Seconded by Ms. Velázquez. Acting President Cohn called for the vote to excuse Ms. Cox Antwi and President Green for necessary absence. The motion was carried unanimously by voice vote. 28. Adjournment Acting President Cohn recognized Mr. Aldridge on the adjournment motion. Mr. Aldridge moved to adjourn the meeting until Friday, May 29, 2026 at 10am in the Chambers. Seconded Ms. Mr. Browning. Acting President Cohn called for the vote on the motion to adjourn until Friday, May 29, 2026 at 10am in the Chambers. The motion was carried unanimously by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned at 10:43am. Submitted by: Sharita Rogers Clerk Page 16 of 17  St. Louis Board of Aldermen Page 17 of 17