Budget and Public Employees Committee - May 27, 2026

The City of St. Louis Budget and Public Employees Committee met on May 27, 2026, to discuss the FY27 city budget, with a significant focus on public safety funding and related amendments. A key procurement-related discussion involved Board Bill 24, which proposed expanding the use of EMS reimbursement funds to include personnel costs, aiming to increase ambulance response capacity. This bill was passed unanimously. The committee also reviewed the police department's budget, highlighting concerns over its size, officer retention, and transparency, especially given the police board's absence despite a subpoena. Public testimony overwhelmingly opposed increasing police funding, advocating instead for reallocations to community programs such as the Office of Violence Prevention, Code Blue, and Right to Counsel. Several budget amendments were adopted to add funding for paramedic positions, environmental health officers, and increased support for Right to Counsel, while also addressing staffing for building inspectors and fleet maintenance. The committee sent the amended budget back to the Board of Estimate and Apportionment for approval. The meeting underscored tensions around police funding, community safety priorities, and the need for transparency and accountability in city procurement and budgeting processes.