Board of Aldermen - July 20, 2026

The City of St. Louis Board of Aldermen convened on July 20, 2026, with a primary focus on several procurement and regulatory matters. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of a $6 million appropriation for the 2026 Works and 50/50 Sidewalk Program, which covers construction and reconstruction of city infrastructure such as gutters, streets, sidewalks, and related engineering work. The board also deliberated extensively on Board Bill 49, which proposes comprehensive zoning regulations for data centers, including renewable energy requirements, noise and environmental controls, and public engagement provisions. Multiple amendments were debated, particularly concerning renewable energy waivers, community benefit agreements, and setback requirements near institutional campuses. The bill was ultimately placed on the informal calendar for further review by the Planning Commission due to substantive amendments. Additionally, the board approved appropriations totaling approximately $27 million from transit sales tax funds to the Bi-State Development Agency for Metro bus and transit operations. The meeting also included the acceptance of a grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies for youth climate action initiatives and the introduction of a tax incentive prohibition for data centers. Several motions to adopt bills and amendments passed by majority votes, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance economic development with environmental and community concerns in city procurement and regulatory policies.