BPNA General Assembly Meeting Tues. Feb 4th, 20225
BPNA General Assembly Meeting Minutes
Date: February 4, 2025
Attendance: 100+
Board Members Present:
Courtney Armistead
Jeremy Rentfro
Derrick Kilgore
Lori White
Christina Cousins
Dan Guenther
Tim Mulligan
Welcome
Courtney Armistead opened the meeting by introducing the board executive members and reminding attendees of the upcoming elections on March 4 (primary) and April 8 (general). She addressed previous concerns, including the impact of recent ice storms and ongoing trash pickup issues, while highlighting the strong community support witnessed.
Regarding recent legislative issues, she acknowledged community concerns and committed to sharing informative resources. Neighbors were encouraged to attend the post-meeting social, which also marked one year of BPNA hosting social events. As a non-profit, BPNA does not endorse candidates but provided an opportunity to hear from mayoral candidates.
Mayoral Candidate Speeches
Cara Spencer: Shared her political background and plans for improved infrastructure.
Michael Butler: Spoke about his motivations for running and focus on infrastructure improvements.
Andrew Jones: Previously ran in 2016; emphasized his experience and commitment to reducing crime.
Tishaura Jones: Highlighted achievements, including two police officer salary increases (15% total), improved 911 dispatch efficiency, and raises for sanitation workers.
New Member Introductions
Approximately 10 new members were welcomed.
Old Business
Approval of the prior month's meeting minutes.
Strategy and Budget
2024 Successes:
Increased meeting attendance, leading to mayoral candidate engagement.
Established the Duck Committee and supported Cherokee Market.
Organized dog park cleanup and Pup Crawl fundraiser ($4,000 raised in one day).
Successful fundraising and sponsorships.
Achieved positive financial turnaround from previous deficits; the finalized budget will be presented at the March meeting.
2025 Initiatives:
Continue supporting local businesses through social events and partnerships.
Increase kid-friendly community events.
Expand Benton Park Pirate Club and encourage participation in the Soulard Mardi Gras parade.
Community Improvement District (CID) efforts led by Derrick Kilgore.
Volunteer Committee, led by Kristan, will hold its first meeting on March 4 at BPC.
Friends of Benton Park Committee, led by Christina Cousins, aims to foster community engagement centered around the park.
Dan Guenther Report
Rams Settlement Funds: The board has decided to postpone discussions until after the elections. The money continues to accrue interest.
BB 162 Legislation: Addresses the potential appointment of a Director of Operations for the city.
Infrastructure Issues: Ice storms have exacerbated trash overflow in alleys. Residents are encouraged to submit CSB reports or email Dan Guenther.
Mardi Gras: High call volume expected for parking issues. If private driveways are blocked, contact Mardi Gras Inc. at 314-771-5110.
New Business
2025 STL City Elections Discussion
Committee Reports
Volunteers: Recruitment underway.
Friends of Benton Park: New initiative supporting park-centered community engagement.
Safety: No update due to time constraints.
Building Review: No update due to time constraints..
Parks: No updates.
Events: No updates.
Guest Speakers
Police Report: Officer Rosa Rojas
Crime incidents in the neighborhood: 5 incidents (50% decrease from last year in the last 28 days).
More details available at slmpd.org.
Residents encouraged to speak with Officer Rojas after the meeting for any concerns.
NSO Report: Ketosha Harris
Nuisance Properties: Increased action being taken. Residents should frequently report issues and submit video evidence to harrisk@stlouis.gov.
Neighborhood Patrols: Ketosha monitors problem areas and parks in front of trouble properties.
Law Enforcement Background: Brings extensive experience to community safety efforts.
Adjournment
Meeting adjourned. Attendees invited to the social gathering following the meeting.