Housing, Urban Development & Zoning Committee - June 16, 2026

The City of St. Louis Housing, Urban Development & Zoning Committee met on June 16, 2026, to discuss several procurement and budget-related matters, primarily focusing on the reappropriation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Key agenda items included the approval of Board Bill 44, which authorized the sale of a small vacant city-owned lot to a private individual who had been maintaining it, and an extensive review of Board Bill 43 concerning over $3 million in ARPA fund reappropriations. These reappropriations targeted various city departments and programs, including water infrastructure repairs, food assistance contracts, public safety CAD system upgrades, and community violence prevention initiatives. The committee heard detailed presentations from department heads and program directors explaining unspent funds, contract terminations, and the challenges of spending ARPA funds within deadlines. Several amendments to Board Bill 43 were proposed and adopted, reallocating funds to specific projects such as fire hydrant repairs, food assistance, and North City commercial corridor programs. Discussions highlighted concerns about the reallocation of funds away from home repair programs despite ongoing community needs, with committee members requesting further transparency and collaboration to ensure funds are optimally used before ARPA deadlines. The meeting concluded with the passage of the bills and amendments, with ongoing oversight anticipated to manage remaining ARPA funds effectively.