NEWS
February 5th, 2024 General Assembly Meeting
Benton Park Neighborhood Meeting
Tuesday February 5th 2024,
Meeting Started at 7:06pm
Agenda Overview: Minutes are always on the website, and will be considered approved.
New Officer Liason: Officer Rosa Rojas
Officer Rojas has been working for 8 years during the night shift. Community outreach for a month, and now working in the morning. Any questions she will stay after the meeting for 15 minutes. Last month we had 2 stolen autos. One was a parked Escalade on the 2100 Block of Missouri. A car was stolen on Lemp, unattended. Two larcenies in the neighborhood. 2300 Cherokee a white male went into an establishment and tried to swing at an employee. One burglary in 2800 Block of Missouri, Copper wire were stolen. One assault in the 2000(?) block of Sydney. Today at 12:30 there was a hold up at Lemp and Arsenal. Red Escalade robbed someone at gun point. She is from Wisconsin.
New member introductions:
Steven from Indiana. Since 2001.
Kylie and Alex on Aresnal. Since last summer
Scarla close to Gus’. Been here for 2 years.
Alfred Montgomery running for Sheriff.
Josh B.
Amanda and Joe 3200 block of Missouri. 18 years.
Claire, Adrian, Beth, just moved.
New Business:
February is the month we propose the budget. They will be on the website. If you have questions or concerns please contact us via the contacts on the website. A few changes from previous years. Our commitment is community engagement, and finding support with the city. Our budget will reflect that this year. IN the past we have done a good job of supporting the community. We are going to have fewer concerts. Post covid we have experienced a decline in donations. We had a great donation drive during the holiday party. Your donations directly goes into funding the events we put on, as well as the meeting space, and more. Lori has created a page that explains where the investment goes into. We are also cutting back on our expenses. We are going to scale back the Summer Concert Series into a few concerts. We will no longer be hosting the Gateway Cup on Labor Day. They are moving to Florissant, and that is awesome for the city, and we hope that we can still show support to this event.
Lori White:
At the meeting last month we had concerns about cats, recycling, the lake in the park, and more. As a follow up, we have a page on the site about recycling. A cat committee is being formed to help with the cat issues. If you are interested in joining the cat committee. There is a loosely forming Park/Lake committee for cleaning purposes. We are having a social after the meeting at Saturn Lounge. If you have any interest in joining any committee then please contact Lori or go to the website.
Alicia from Benton Park Cafe is officially opening this Thursday February 8th for a 1920’s themed party. Celebrating the new evening hours. Time is 5p-10p. Next month we are going to have Circuit Attorney Gore to speak.
Building Review Committee: Tim Mulligan
Darla Dougherty, the south side slum lord is being held accountable. Prior to the RFT article, one of her properties is in the neighborhood. 2100 Cherokee St. Three story house, that is in disrepair. Legal Services approached us in an attempt to take over the property. Building Committee has been working with them. She is now arrested, which means we cannot proceed. The building will be going up for sale. We will be updated when more information is available.
Tim wanted to introduce the committee that has been working on it. The national historic district was created for BP in 1985. It has a lot of benefits for developers, but it doesn’t do anything to protect what is built and what is torn down. 20 years ago we recognized that this wasn’t a trend that we wanted to continue. They worked with the alderman at the time and worked with the city to come up with a District code for BP. It was written into ordinance in 2006, and it mirrored Soulard’s code. Some of the terms were ambiguous, and needed to be changed. Previous attempt was thwarted by the pandemic. Last fall, they amassed the team they have now.
Marianne Smith, part of the group that help write original code. Some things were missing, and other things blocked creativity. They have been working and want to incorporate some of these revisions and standards. They want to make the standards easier to implement city wide. They are addressing two different groups with their standards. Homeowners and to provide clearer requirements for new construction or significant renovations. Mostly exterior. They would like the neighborhood to see the drafts and make comments or concerns.
Sean Dobson, works with historic architect. They will be posting updates on the neighborhood website and they have it linked to the city architecture ordinances. When we have changes they will post the before ordinance and what it is being changed to.
Meg Lusso, Cultural Resources Office. https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/planning/cultural-resources/index.cfm Map with color shows the jurisdiction of the office. Available on their website. They have 18 historic districts. The difficulty of the historic neighborhoods is that they were all allowed to write their own codes. They want all the definitions for the standards match between all districts.
Alderman Report: Cara Spencer
On the legislative front, they are dealing with red light cameras. Reallocating their $500 million funds. Lastly, the passed a senior tax brief on your property taxes. Funding the AirBNB legislative, they will be discussing that soon. On the local front, they are working on getting the park fountains more functional. Elbia, resident, has been persistent on making the change. Mardi Gras is this weekend. Cara is in direct communication with the festival operators. Contact her, if you have any issues.
7th Ward newly elected alderwoman. Alicia Sonnier
What they want to do with the new board is a lot of community cohesion. Please disregard previous bills about the unhoused. The new unhoused bill of rights, addresses the lack of space for the homeless. In the city of St. Louis we have 900 beds for emergency, only used temporarily. The new bill would be to expand shelters. The city does not run shelters, but they are working on ways to expand available beds. The committee hasn’t opened a shelter in 15 years. The unhoused providers cannot navigate the process, but the new bill is geared to make it more of a community process. On elf the specifics would be the provider sending a notification to the hearing date amongst the neighborhoods. They are redoing the signature verification, and they call over the phone. IF you don’t answer, then they wouldn’t be able to verify the signature. They will utilize an office that has already been verifying signatures for elections. The threshold is 51% to get a hearing. They want to move it to 25%, just to have the hearing.
Dog Park: Hayley Johnston
Renewal period has changed to the beginning of the year. The code will change in the next couple of weeks. Re-signup in January. Dog Park group me chat has been started. Community crime, and local things only.
Safety Committee: Derrick Kilgore
Yard signs with QR codes to sign up for the Block Captain Program, as well as the camera initiative will be going up in the neighborhood soon. We are working on a editable interactive map for identifying Block Captains. As well as expanded our camera coverage. We will be meeting the last Thursday of every month at Small Change at 7pm.
Cave/Garden Committee: Bill Kranz
One flower box left if anyone is interested. The second phase of the project is reopening the cave underneath the garden. It’s a difficult project. They also produce a report of all of the brewery page in which you can sign up.
Edit: They have a compost bin there.
Epiphany UCC:
Next Tuesday they will have a free spaghetti dinners. They will have gift bags for the unhoused. Also they are doing a concert on February 24th.
Email hello@bentonpark.org if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
January 2nd, 2024 General Assembly Meeting
BPNA GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING
TUESDAY JANUARY 2ND
Meeting began at 7:11pm
Welcome:
Introduction and new member welcome by Courtney Armistead.
Old Business:
Meetings from the last minute have been approved and are available on the website.
Guest Speaker: Isiah Santiago (Cara Spencer Representative)
There is going to be a speed hump bill coming soon.
The EPA visited St. Louis in November regarding the smell from Sauget. They have created a website about the smell and how to complain about it through the site.
Good neighbor Guide fact sheet that answers a lot of general questions. Cara wanted to communicate that they are here to listen, and if anyone has any questions please contact her office.
Email: spencerc@stlouis-mo.gov Phone: (314) 622-3287
Update coming soon on speed humps. Tentative locations are 2700 block of Salena, 2415 block of Salena, and 2200 block of Wyoming.
Questions:
What percentage of recycling bins getting recycled? Would like a monthly report on the percentage of bins that are actually being recycled.
Answer: Date is currently not available. Isaiah will follow up with Alderwoman Meghan Greene, Cara Spencer, as well as specific departments involved.
Neighbors are having a feral cat problem in their area. Started with 3, and now it’s 9 with kittens. The cats are also attacking dogs. Animal control is unable to help. How can they get this resolved?
Answer: Isaiah will attempt to contact animal control to further investigate why they cannot help, and proper steps to rectify the situation.
Sidenote: Courtney Armistead
Moving forward we may be looking to get a better understanding of the city website and guides that are geared to educate the actions of the neighborhood association. Civic engagement is important to building the neighborhood. We want to make sure we are promoting diversity and inclusion in the neighborhood. We will be working on the 2024 budget, and will have an approval meeting next month at the neighborhood meeting.
Questions:
A request to decorate highway bridge in Benton Park with holiday lights in Winter 2024.
Answer: Lori White will assist in making this happen.
It has been requested that we create a monthly night for neighbors to connect.
Answer: That is something we will look into, and follow up with in the future.
It has been requested that our meetings become more participatory with the community.
Answer: We are looking for ways to increase the voice of the community, and we would like feedback on any ideas on the matter.
It has been suggested that our website is updated with more current information and links to city services.
Answer: Lori White will investigate.
Committee Reports:
Events: There will be no events until Spring 2024.
Building Review: N/A
Safety: The next meeting will be Thursday January 25th at Chemistry PR and Multimedia (location may change).
In 2024 we will be reinstating the Block Captain Program, and further expanding the Benton Park Surveillance Initiative (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd2xldvaHWPf_hDYgyzaQQtQTXdfUIuTQT0lkeukriekWk2aA/viewform).
Garden Cave: The work continues on the cave. More information will be available on the website.
Dog Park: The dog park is still there. The dogs love it. Reseeding in the spring. The dog park is looking to do fundraising going forward.
Parks: N/A
Question:
The small lake in Benton Park looks bad, as well as a floating trash can.
Answer: This needs to be brought up to our former Alderman Dan Guenther.
General Comments, Questions, or Concerns:
Comment: The person who does the street cleaning does an excellent job. On your phone you can set a reminder on your phone to move your car on street cleaning.
Guest Speaker:
Scott Vogel: Benton Park Cafe will now be open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. There will be a speakeasy themed party Thursday February 8th from 5-10pm.
Neighborhood Association Meeting Minutes
Meeting Topics:
1. Website Enhancements and Donations
During the meeting, we delved into the idea of adding donation options to our neighborhood association's website. The discussion revolved around making the donation process as user-friendly and accessible as possible. We agreed to form a small committee to investigate various online payment platforms that align with our needs.
2. Social Media Strategy
Our attention turned to our social media presence. We brainstormed and proposed engaging posts for Instagram and other platforms. These posts would serve to highlight upcoming events, such as Scott Vogl's party and the latest EPA initiatives. An interesting idea was to encourage members to set reminders for street cleanings in their personal calendars, ensuring active community participation.
3. Traffic and Safety Concerns
The issue of traffic speed and neighborhood safety took center stage. We discussed the effectiveness of speed hump bills in slowing down vehicles and shared anecdotes of their impact. Specific locations like Small Change on Lynch, 2415 Salena, 2700 Salena, and 2200 Wyoming were brought up as areas where traffic management needs improvement. Some members suggested exploring alternative solutions, like using brick below the pavement to naturally discourage speeding. Additionally, we touched on the EPA's website as a resource to address concerns related to unpleasant odors in our neighborhood and considered distributing good neighbor guides to foster a stronger sense of community.
4. 2024 Neighborhood Association Pillars
Our association is committed to making 2024 a year of progress in specific areas. We identified two main pillars for the year: diversity and inclusion, as well as civic engagement. A key point of discussion was the February meeting, which is slated to be a budget-focused session where we will outline strategies to fund our initiatives.
5. Tangible Change Requests
Members passionately voiced several requests for tangible change within our community. These requests included:
Regular monthly recycling reports to keep residents informed.
A plan to clean the lake, remove dead fish, and install more trash cans to combat littering.
Addressing the challenge of feral cats in the neighborhood, with a focus on humane relocation options.
A commitment to promoting diversity at our events and meetings, in response to Lori's request for a more inclusive atmosphere.
An enthusiastic call for more cave-related activities to tap into our unique neighborhood resources.
Formation of an Xmas committee to organize festive holiday events and decor
Exploring the idea of lighting up the bridge, with involvement from Scott Vogel, Ashley (wife of the membership guy), and several of our new members.
A recurring request for monthly recycle reports to stay eco-conscious.
A pledge to hold more active meetings, including brainstorming sessions to generate fresh ideas.
The need to revamp our website, making it a better resource for connection and information.
Emphasizing the importance of feedback and accountability among our members.
Organizing volunteer clean-up events to maintain our beautiful neighborhood.
Establishing the Tangible Change Committee to oversee requested changes and provide regular updates at each meeting.
Summary:
This comprehensive meeting addressed a wide array of topics, including website enhancements, social media strategies, traffic and safety concerns, our neighborhood's 2024 pillars, and various tangible change requests, such as recycling reports and feral cat management. Members were engaged and committed to making positive changes within our community.
Action Items:
The formation of a committee to explore online donation options for our website.
Scheduling and creation of engaging social media posts for upcoming events.
In-depth investigation into traffic-calming measures for the specified locations.
A renewed focus on diversity and inclusion initiatives within the neighborhood.
Detailed planning for the February budget-focused meeting.
The establishment of the Tangible Change Committee to oversee requested changes and provide regular updates.
A commitment to keeping members informed about progress on action items and upcoming events.
The meeting concluded with a sense of enthusiasm and dedication to addressing the outlined action items and ensuring the success of our upcoming events and initiatives.
Key Follow-Ups:
Website Enhancement Committee: Continue researching online donation options for the neighborhood association website. Email: marketing@bentonpark.org
Social Media Team: Coordinate and create engaging posts for upcoming events and community updates. Email: marketing@bentonpark.org
Traffic and Safety Subcommittee: Investigate traffic-calming measures for specific locations mentioned in the meeting. Email: safety@bentonpark.org
Diversity and Inclusion Working Group: Develop strategies to promote diversity at neighborhood events and meetings.
Tangible Change Committee: Form this committee to oversee requested changes and provide regular updates.
Contact Information:
President: Courtney Armistead - president@bentonpark.org
Vice President: Bob Panian - vicepresident@bentonpark.org
Secretary: Derrick Kilgore - secretary@bentonpark.org
Treasurer: Ryan Ely - treasurer@bentonpark.org
Membership (Vacant): membership@bentonpark.org
Committees and Chairs:
Safety (Derrick Kilgore): safety@bentonpark.org
Building Review (Tim Mulligan): buildingreviewcommittee@bentonpark.org
Parks (Dan Guenther): parks@bentonpark.org | 314-304-6797
Community Garden/Cave (Bill Kranz): garden@bentonpark.org | cave@bentonpark.org
Events Committee (Brittany Nelson): eventscommitteechair@bentonpark.org
Dog Park Committee (Haley Johnston): bentonparkdogpark@gmail.com
Marketing/Social Media (Lori White): marketing@bentonpark.org
Additional Contacts:
Alderman Cara Spencer: spencerc@stlouis-mo.gov
Legislative Assistant Isaiah Pasek-Santiago: pasek-santiagoi@stlouis-mo.gov
Neighborhood Stabilization Officer (NSO) Larry Isom: 314-657-1376 | Isoml@saintlouis-mo.gov
Police: 3rd District Patrol Captain Joseph Morici: 314-444-2500 | jamorici@slmpd.org
Liaison: Officer Jazmon Garrett: 314-444-2500 Ext. 2595 | jdgarrett@slmpd.org
Feel free to reach out to the respective contacts for follow-ups, questions, or collaboration on the discussed topics.
November 7th 2023, General Assembly Meeting Minutes
BENTON PARK NEIGHBORHOOD GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Tuesday November 7th.
The meeting was called to begin at 7:10.
Introductions.
Welcoming new members, and introducing new board member.
New members
Joe, Abi, Gayle, Wendy, Lori, Chris, Mark,
New board member: Executive board and membership chair. William Aungst (professor at SLU)
Guest Speaker: Jean Corbett (Brightside St. Louis)
https://stlcityrecycles.com/
St. Louis City recycles. Brightside hosts greening, and cleaning throughout the city. Clean up projects, and grants for planting in public spaces. The outreach arm of the city recycling department. The state of recycling right now in St. Louis is one of the topics. The city is recycling despite the rumors. Explains the process of the recycling in the city. The issue is the contamination of the dumpsters. Today’s purpose is to help us understand what exactly goes into the recycling dump. Literature has been passed out (see attachment). What goes into the bin are containers that hold their shape. Utensils do not go into bin. Plastic bags do not go into the bin. Do not crush anything unless it’s cardboard. They have a scanner that determines what it is by the shape.
Questions:
01. TV Dinners.
Do not go into recycling.
02. Dumpster dumpers: People outside of the neighborhood using our dumpsters the wrong way.
They are trying to reach as many people as possible to educate. They hope that we can spread the word about recycling with the neighbors.
Suggestion: A number that we can call if we see illegal dumping.
Answer: That number does exist, you can call Brightside or CSB.
03. Why not remove the recycling bins, if they aren’t being used?
Answer: Sometimes the frequency of recycling pick up changes from week to week.
Please come to the office to get a free recycling bin. If you have a recycling bin at home, you will be more incentivized to recycle. Contact Jean if you have questions, comments, or concerns.
New Business
Alderperson Report:
Cara Spencer will talk to us about new board bills and legislative issues going on right now. They passed the AIRBNB bill. It was signed yesterday by the mayor.
https://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/city-laws/board-bills/boardbill.cfm?bbDetail=true&BBId=14253
They are trying to protect communities. They are working on a set of bills about homeless situation. On hold for the moment. It is impossible right now for a shelter to open, so there is a bit of a homeless crisis. They are trying to identify the number of people that are homeless.
MSD (sewer department) is a monopoly. They are looking to raise our rates 33%. They are trying to make the raise decreased. We have a higher cost for sewage compared to other cities.
Last, they are discussing the funds from 2021. They have spent 84 of the 500 million of the fund, and they are pushing to get those funds used effectively.
Second lastly, dispensaries. The BOA allowed dispensaries into the city. The planning staff at the time that dispensaries could would not qualify if there were a buffer. Because of density, would end up in North St. Louis. Two dispensaries are currently going across the street from a school. Cara is asking the city to reconsider that buffer.
Question:
01. Is the BOA working with the COC?
Answer: Cara works with the COC, and if she is not sure if the Mayor and the city is working with them.
02. Please elaborate on the lack of new homeless shelters.
There hasn’t been a homeless shelter in 20 years, because of petitions. Usually because neighbors have control, and no one has historically wanted a homeless shelter near their house.
Contact Cara Spencer directly, if you have any questions or comments.
Committee Reports:
Event committee:
Very successful series of summer concerts. Tunes on Tap had 8 houses and 150 people participate. Last event of the year is the holiday party December 1st. The party will be at Bluewood Brewing. We will be taking pictures of Santa before the parade, and then the parade through the neighborhood. We drive down every street in the neighborhood. Our holiday meeting is a way to meet neighbors and renew memberships with merch on sale. We may have a silent auction, and we are accepting donations. If anyone wants to donate contact the president or events committee. If anyone is interested in joining the events committee. Starts at 6pm. Parade starts at 7pm.
Tim Mulligan: Not here.
Safety Committee: No new developments
Garden/Cave: Bill Kranz
Garden was a successful year. Everything is currently frozen so that is shutting down for the year. Monthly report is out covering cave activities, anything underground, etc. About 100 members on this email list. On the BPNA website you can contact Bill to get on the list. They are recreating a book about caves in St. Louis written 20 years ago. 64 pages are available. Trying to also get a endoscopic color camera into a drilling hole, to get a better view of the caves. They are trying to get a robot to go down that hole as well. Lastly, they have a new light camera with radar. (LIDAR).
Parks: Barbara
Dog park is going great, dogs are having fun. However they are running out of money, so they are going to have a basket at the holiday party. They are planning a pub crawl with your dogs, which was a success last time.
Guest speaker: John Timmons
Lives between Cherokee rec center and the BP. He has a living fence, and wants to do a seed-o-rama. Seeds are going to waste, and he would like to change it. He has very rare plants. He is going through plants that have seeds.
How to save seeds.
01. Dry them (paper bag or envelope)
02. Refrigerate or freezer.
03. Heating pad (potting soil) Germination in 2 weeks.
He will have seeds available for neighbors to take, and they will have another seed-o-rama next year.
Meeting concluded at 7:54pm.
October 3 Meeting Minutes — 2023
Benton Park Neighborhood Association Meeting Minutes
Date: 10/3 Location: 2911 MCNAIR
Agenda
Fill out the volunteer form if you’d like to volunteer
Summary: The Benton Park Neighborhood Association meeting was held on 10/3 at 2911 McNair. The meeting began at 7:03 PM and covered various topics related to neighborhood activities and concerns. Attendees discussed events, updates on ongoing projects, and ways to engage with the community. National Night Out celebrations were also highlighted.
Key Points and Bulletins:
National Night Out celebrations were held at the park during the meeting.
Introduction of STL TrailsLC, a nonprofit organization focusing on urban tree care and environmental awareness.
Discussion about the importance of tree maintenance and the role of volunteers in caring for neighborhood trees.
STL Trails C provided information about their organization, encouraging community members to participate in tree care activities.
Information shared about upcoming neighborhood events, including Tunes on Tap garden music tour, a concert in the park, and a Halloween parade.
Discussion about the challenges faced by residents regarding police response times and communication with law enforcement.
email
Concerns raised about the Citizen Service Bureau's automated response system and the need for more direct communication with city departments.
after you have submitted online, and if nothing has been fixed in 2 weeks, email 8th ward alderman’s office with the following 2 emails
Attendees shared their experiences and suggestions for improving community safety and communication with law enforcement.
Police: 3rd District Patrol
Captain Joseph Morici
314-444-2500
jamorici@slmpd.org
Liaison: Officer Jazmon Garrett
314-444-2500 Ext. 2595
jdgarrett@slmpd.org
Updates on ongoing projects, including the Shenandoah property development and tree maintenance efforts.
email the
Reminder about the association's email address (hello@bentonpark.org) for contacting organizers and scheduling agenda items for future meetings.
Key Follow-Ups:
STL Trails C representatives will coordinate with interested community members for tree care activities and training sessions. Website
Concerns about police calling in sick and communication have been forwarded to relevant city officials and the neighborhood’s concern has been heard by the City
Residents interested in reporting tree-related issues will use the CSB (Citizen Service Bureau) report system. Submit your complaints online.
Follow-up communication will be established with residents experiencing difficulties with the online reporting system. Email hello@bentonpark.org
The association will continue engaging with community members to address concerns and improve neighborhood communication to help us all become better neighbors
These minutes are a summary of the discussions and key points covered during the Benton Park Neighborhood Association meeting. For more detailed information or specific inquiries, community members are encouraged to contact the association via email at hello@bentonpark.org
Meeting adjourned around 7:40.
Meeting Minutes + Agenda — September 5, 2023
Here’s the agenda for the meeting on 9/5!
Neighborhood Association Meeting Minutes 9/5 / 23
1. Fundraising and Community Support:
Importance of fundraising due to reduced sponsorship during COVID.
Significant annual investment in neighborhood events like concerts, Halloween parade, and Christmas party.
Initiation of a fundraising committee involving local businesses and neighbors.
Encouragement for community support through donations and volunteerism.
Email fundraising@bentonpark.org for more info or to make a one time of recurring donation
2. Event Updates
Gateway Cup was a bigger success with merch and drinks sales than last year! The neighborhood association pays $3,000 to have this event in our neighborhood, so we are doubling down on fundraising to keep it there!
Tell your local business buds about us, and to donate, email fundraising@bentonpark.org!
Next concert is Aligator Wine on Sunday Sept 17th!
Rescheduling of some events due to weather… announcements soon.
Tunes on tap on Saturday October 14th! We provide beer and supplies, we just need neighbors who wanna meet neighbors who have a hard for music!
To volunteer or offer your home as a stop on tunes on tap email eventscommitteechair@bentonpark.org
Success of the musical house tour as a fundraiser and a call for volunteers for hosting gardens during the tour.
3. Construction and Zoning Concerns + Green spaces committment:
Concerns expressed about new constructions and zoning changes, specifically the conversion of an auto repair place.
Our historical neighborhood must include a commitment to preserving and enhancing green spaces through tree planting and pocket park creation.
neighbor suzanna has a great PDF on how to save your trees from the city chainsaws + she and lori are going to meet about ways to keep trees in our neighborhood and water out of our basements.
Emphasis on collective community involvement to address these concerns.
4. Environmental Initiatives and Neighborhood Issues:
Discussion of environmental initiatives like rain gardens and tree care.
Attendees' interest in organizing collective efforts to address neighborhood issues, including construction concerns and support for green initiatives.
Exchange of contact information among attendees to facilitate future collaboration.
5. Neighborhood Concerns:
Excessive use of concrete in new constructions impacting water absorption.
Flooding issues in basements due to impermeable surfaces.
Questions about the city's role in regulating construction and its environmental impact.
Discussion on potentially modifying zoning codes.
6. Community Issues:
Road hazards on highways and the need for a more efficient reporting system.
Suggestion to involve the governor's office in addressing highway-related concerns.
Concerns about short-term rentals and their impact on the neighborhood.
Coordination with authorities regarding a smell issue.
Discussion on the enforcement of the recently passed gun bill.
Updates on crime statistics, especially related to juvenile activity.
Year to date crime is down -38.7% - there were 10 incidents reported and all were related to car theft or theft of things in cars.
Officer Jazmon requested to be added to updated invite to the neighborhood meeting
Consideration of reporting an $8 theft incident.
7. Community Engagement:
Discussion on the construction of new houses and the need for improved water absorption practices.
Concerns about extensive use of concrete and its environmental impact.
Mention of similar concerns in other neighborhoods and the need to modify zoning codes.
Highlighting the importance of green spaces and balancing development with nature.
*. Charter Updates:
Brief discussion about proposed updates to the neighborhood association's charter.
Emphasis on aligning the charter with commonly understood neighborhood boundaries.
Unanimous vote YES to approval vote for proposed charter changes.
Contact info :
President Courtney Armistead president@bentonpark.org
Vice President Bob Panian vicepresident@bentopark.org
Secretary Derrick Kilgore secretary@bentonpark.org
Treasurer Ryan Ely treasurer@bentonpark.org
Membership VACANT membership@bentonpark.org
Committees and Chairs
Wanna form a committee? Email marketing@bentonpark.org
Safety Derrick Kilgore safety@bentonpark.org
Building Review Tim Mulligan buildingreviewcommittee@bentonpark.org
Parks Dan Guenther parks@bentonpark.org 314-304-6797
Community Garden/Cave Bill Kranz garden@bentonpark.org cave@bentonpark.org
Events Committee Brittany Nelson eventscommitteechair@bentonpark.org
Dog Park Committee Haley Johnston bentonparkdogpark@gmail.com
Marketing/Social Media Lori White marketing@bentonpark.org
____________________________
Additional Contacts
Alderman Cara Spencer spencerc@stlouis-mo.gov
Legislative Assistant Isaiah Pasek-Santiago pasek-santiagoi@stlouis-mo.gov
Neighborhood Stabilization Officer (NSO) Larry Isom 314-657-1376 Isoml@saintlouis-mo.gov
Police: 3rd District Patrol Captain Joseph Morici 314-444-2500 jamorici@slmpd.org
Liaison: Officer Jazmon Garrett 314-444-2500 Ext. 2595 jdgarrett@slmpd.org
Neighborhood Meeting Minutes — August 1, 2023
New Members Welcome!
Scott V!
Brian! on James st.
Susan! On indiana
William and Ashley! on Missouri
Update:
Looking at charter, the boundaries aren’t reflective of what the city considers our boundaries … in the middle of Gravois as opposed to the alley behind Gravois
Cara’s update:
8th ward alder, spencerc@stlouis-mo.gov
UPDATES
Board of aldermen are on a break
(Chambers doesn’t have ac)
Gun control bill
Restrict open carry of firearms bill passed … will mayor sign? We’ll see
Regulating AirBNBs
(stl is one of the last cities in the nation to have any regulation)
It has not even been discussed!
Weigh in with Cara (email)
President of the board and the mayor (emails)
To learn more, watch one of the hearings (link)
The idea is for the building division to be the regulatory agency and require permits for anyone who’s getting an airbnb. Some zoning, tightening it up a little bit more. We cannot issue taxes in st Louis, under Hancock, state of MO statute. We can’t charge any more for permit other than the cost of the service. Current airbnbs need to get a permit. $100 a year for each airbnb is what is being discussed. But nothing has happened yet so weigh in!
First charter commission
Renewing the city’s charter, learn more about the citizen board here
Dan G commissioned a study of Gravois
Gravois is owned by the city but managed by modot. More updates to come. We’ll post them when we find them.
Closure of Cherokee access to 55 is permanent
There were several accidents and just one person thought that maybe it would be good to keep out of all surveyed. It’s permanently closed.
Board of aldermen hired legislative assistant
Isaiah is the new legislative assistant for Cara/ward 8 pasek-santiagoi@stlouis-mo.gov
Church on Gravois x Russell
Updates next meeting. Contact Alder Spencer for info: spencerc@stlouis-mo.gov
Benton Park, The Park
You have been heard! The trees are down by the lake, and they’re getting addressed soon!
Fountain has been down a couple years
Parks dept couldn’t find the part they needed, but they found it recently! Expect to fix the fountain by the end of the summer.
Conditional Use Proposal
Pestalozzi and Jefferson
Catering for private events. Chris Bork Project. Southside Space building.
Come to our concerts!
Next one is aug 20, Pernikoff Brothers
Tunes on tap
This is our musical garden and home tour! We need volunteers to host a local musician and 10-20 people at most sprinkled throughout Saturday, October 14th. The neighborhood will provide local brews and help setting up. Email events@bentonpark.org if you’re interested in volunteering.
Yemanja’s Brazilian Day is happening on 9/9!
September 9th, 12-8 at Yemanja Brazil, 2900 Missouri Ave, St. Louis, MO 63118
This is a street festival, the street will be closed from Missouri to McNair
Samba lessons
Soccer workshop (need)
Miami/chicago dancers coming in
Jiujitsu class for women’s self defense!
Caipirinhas !
There’s a local CSA (community supported agriculture) from an urban farm in Cahokia
newcahokiacommons.farm
Email info@newcahokiacommons.farm to subscribe! Food through November!
It’s super fresh and pickup is Tuesday 4:30-6 at Earthbound Beer
2724 Cherokee St, St. Louis, MO 63118Artisan cheeses dairy and plant
Honey
Eggs, chicken and duck
Flowers
Master brewer and distiller
Cave update!
English Cave + Community Garden
Trying to get access to the cave, but it can take decades before you get the opportunity.
Bill, our cave man, recently had the opportunity to get into the Lemp Cave … there will be a video of the visit
They will also be showing video of Lemp Cave at Spine Cafe and bookstore. We’ll post more onthe neighborhood social media.
Dog park
Gate is fixed!
Info about dog park is here —-> bentonparkdogpark@gmail.com
Adam, with the Metro Toxic Air Task Force
If you’d like to report the smell/toxic air, you can use this form! it will take 5 minutes to report and every report helps. (report early and often!)
CLICK HERE TO OPEN THE FORM
“The smell” - it’s not the brewery smell! It’s a burning iphone toxic smell coming from Sauget.
The smell was here years ago, it went away, and now it has RETURNED
The task force believes its coming from the Yolia waste management in Sauget
They deal with hazardous waste. The smell contains arsenic lead and mercury … not great!
Google st Louis toxic air yolia to learn more
We have the right to have air that’s safe to breathe based on the law of this country. =
What can you do? Report the small.
Here’s how:
mtatf23@gmail.com (make a form)
Date time, what’s the smell like, what’s the effect
The more reporting the better.
More details:
Air quality is supposed to be highly regulated (permit good for 5 years)
It requires them to do testing/ what are you burning etc…
In the rollbacks to the EPA 2016-2020, the permit was weakened
Permit up in 2024 January
If we can get input from community, we can send the smell away AGAIN
State of Missouri Medicaid Renewal is happening. Check on your people!
Renew everyone who participates on medical health insurance that falls under medicaid
If you have a family member etc who may be using medicaid
Children and adults and seniors
They need to have someone who is familiar with the the division of family services to make sure they are renewed for their services
Adam Lane - City of St Louis treasurer
Parking related issues? Let us know stltreasurer@stlouis-mo.gov
Amnesty for parking tickets through September (but likely through end of 2023)
You can call in and pay the original fee
Question to treasurer: What’s happening with the Rams money?
The board of aldermen will vote on what happens with that money but in the meantime it is in an Investment account. and it has earned 5 million dollars as of now.
A Sidewalk Santa Sighting in Benton Park
Join us for a safe, socially distant sidewalk visit from Santa! On Sunday, December 20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Santa Kevin Nolan and his elves will jingle their way through the streets of Benton Park.
Join us for a safe, socially distant sidewalk visit from Santa!
On Sunday, December 20 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., Santa Kevin Nolan and his elves will jingle their way through the streets of Benton Park. Grab a cup of nog and join your neighbors outside to wave a hello and get a glimpse of the big man himself. Parents, get your cameras ready — photos are encouraged! Please remember to wear a mask and keep a safe social distance. Be sure to RSVP on Facebook.
To find out when Santa’s sleigh will pass your house, check the route below. Santa will visit every street in Benton Park, starting south of the park. The plan is to complete the route in two hours (between 6:30 and 8:30). For specifics and a better idea of timing, follow along on the Santa Tracker (we’ll share the GPS link on Sunday evening). Below, find Santa’s map and block-by-block route for the evening.
Santa’s Map
Follow along with Santa’s route through Benton Park. Red arrows indicate route overlap.
Santa’s Block-By-Block Route
Demenil towards Utah St.
Left on Utah St.
Left on S. 18th St
Right on Cherokee St.
Right on Lemp Ave
Left on Provenchere Pl
Left on Wisconsin Ave
Right on Wyoming
Right on Illinois Ave (do turnaround in cul-de-sac)
Left on Wyoming Ave
Right on Wisconsin Ave
Right on Cherokee St.
Right on Illinois Ave.
Left on Wyoming Ave.
Left on Missouri Ave.
Right on Cherokee St.
Right on Indiana Ave.
Right on Wyoming Ave.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Right on Withnell Ave.
Left on Missouri Ave.
Right on Utah St.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Right on Cherokee Ave.
Right on Salena St.
Right on Utah St.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Right on Cherokee St.
Right on Jefferson
Right on Arsenal
Left on Indiana Ave.
Right on Sidney St.
Right on Missouri Ave.
Left on Arsenal St.
Left on McNair Ave.
Left on Victor St.
Right on Gravois Ave.
Right on McNair Ave.
Left on Victor St.
Left on Salena St.
Right on Shenandoah Ave.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Right on Victor St.
Left on Salena St.
Right on Sidney St.
Left on Salena St
Left on Lynch
Right on Salena St.
Right on Pestalozzi St.
Right on Wisconsin Ave (turnaround in cul-de-sac)
Wisconsin to Arsenal St. Turn left.
Left on Salena St.
Right on Pestalozzi St.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Right on Arsenal St.
Right on Jefferson Ave
Right on Crittenden St.
Left on S. 18th Street
Left on Pestalozzi St.
Right on Jefferson Ave.
Right on Lynch St.
Right on St. 18th St.
Right on Pestalozzi St.
Right on Lemp Ave.
Left on Senate St.
Go through Alley
Left on Congress Ave.
Left on Lemp Ave.
Left on Sidney St.
End at Sidney at Gravois Ave.
This event wouldn’t be possible without the membership of neighbors like you! We encourage you to renew your annual BPNA membership online at bentonpark.org/membership.
Benton Park Holiday Gift Guide
Now more than ever, neighborhood businesses need our support. This holiday season, we're sharing gift ideas from the Benton Park businesses we all hold dear.
Now more than ever, neighborhood businesses need our support. This holiday season, we're sharing gift ideas from the Benton Park businesses we all hold dear.
Whether it's a gift certificate to your favorite restaurant or merch from your go-to spot, you'll find something special for everyone on your list. Check back as we update this post in the weeks to come, or follow along on Instagram.
If you're supporting BP businesses this year, show us your photos using the hashtag #shopbentonpark.
Are you a business with something to add to our list? Email us at marketing@bentonpark.org. If you're a Benton Park resident in need of support this holiday season, visit our website to apply for COVID aid.
Benton Park Cafe Gift Card
Any Amount
Available for purchase at Benton Park Cafe.
Blues City Deli T-Shirt
$28
Available at seriessixcompany.com/products/bluescitydeli. 100% of profits go back to the featured restaurant.
Bluewood Brewing MERCH
Prices vary
Hats, hoodies, glassware, and more available online at bluewoodbrewing.square.site.
Cherokee Print Bazaar
Prices Vary
Find a gift that's truly unique and support local artists at the Cherokee Print Bazaar Online Marketplace. Now open at cherokeeprintbazaar.com.
Elaine’s Classic American Sandwiches Gift Card
$10-$50
Available at elainesoncherokee.shopsettings.com
Frazer’s Ringer Tee
$38.50 - $40.50
Available online at frazersgoodeats.com/shop alongside plenty of additional Frazer’s merch.
Gus’ Pretzels Dips
Prices Range
Call 314-664-4010 for curbside or carryout orders. More info at guspretzels.com.
Kalbi Taco Shack Gift Card
Any Amount
Available online at squareup.com/gift/P2Z7Z0W1S1JWT/order. Visit kalbitacoshack.com for more information.
Mac’s Local Eats T-Shirt
$28
Available via Series Six. 100% of profits go back to the featured restaurant.
Mac’s Local Buys Local Goods
Prices Vary
Mac’s Market stocks a range of locally made goods, From Butter Love by L.C. to Southside Alchemy. Call 314-280-5983 or email orders.macslocalbuys@gmail.com to place an order.
Miracle To-Go Cocktails
Prices Vary
To order, visit exploretock.com/miraclestl and select “Pickup.” Menu and more info at drinkchristmas.com.
Murphy’s Mutts & Cuts
Prices Vary
Don’t forget your furry friends this holiday season! Treats and toys available in store.
Whisk Cookie Boxes
$30 - $42
Order your choice of Old World cookie box, New Whisk Classics box, or DIY sugar cookie box at whiskstl.square.site.
COVID Small Business Grants & Resources
A regularly updated list of small business grants and resources for COVID relief.
Below, find a regularly updated list of small business grants and resources for COVID relief. To add a program to this list, email marketing@bentonpark.org.
Ameren Missouri COVID-19 Small Business Relief Program
Ameren Missouri has created Ameren Missouri has created the Ameren Missouri COVID-19 Small Business Relief Program in partnership with the United Way. Start. Starting July 6, they began accepting applications for energy assistance from eligible small business and non-profit customers. Click on this link to learn more: https://uwgsl.tfaforms.net/4602934
CARES Act Rental & Mortgage Assistance
Applications are now being accepted for City residents needing rental and mortgage assistance as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. In total, $5.4 million in federal CARES Act funding is being made available through a new program called “St. Louis City CARES.”
The Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Affordable Housing Commission will work in coordination with various housing organizations and service providers to distribute available funding to qualified applicants. Assistance is limited to $3,500 per household.
Missouri Department of Economic Development Small Business Grant
Missouri Department of Economic Development is issuing a *Reimbursement* grant for small businesses for up to $50,000 for "costs of business interruption caused by required closures in connection with the COVID-19". This grant is not for up-front cash but for reimbursement of existing expenses related to COVID19. To request an application, send an email to smallbusinessgrant@ded.mo.gov. There are a few more hoops to jump through for this grant than for others.
Eligibility requirements:
For-profit business with fewer than 50 employees
Applicant must be located in Missouri.
Business must be incorporated in Missouri
The applicant must be registered to do business in Missouri and in good standing with the Secretary of State
Applicant must complete and submit Form 943 to obtain a tax clearance certificate (valid for 90 days) from the Missouri Department of Revenue for each owner and the business.
Applicant must register with the MissouriBuys state procurement system
If requesting more than $5000, applicant must submit proof that they have enrolled in E-Verify.
Red Backpack Fund
The Red Backpack Fund is an initiative started by The Spanx by Sara Blakely Foundation. The foundation donated $5 million to GlobalGiving to establish The Red Backpack Fund. GlobalGiving will be making at least 1,000 grants of $5,000 each to female entrepreneurs in the U.S. to help alleviate the immediate needs and support the long-term recovery of those impacted by this crisis. To learn more about The Red Backpack Fund, please visit globalgiving.org/redbackpackfund.
Each month from April to August, GlobalGiving will accept fund applications. The April, May, and June cycles are now closed but two more rounds remain. The application portal will open at 12 p.m. ET and close at 12 p.m. ET the following dates:
July 6-13
Aug. 3-10
Visa IFundWomen Grant Program for Black Women-Owned Businesses
Visa has extended its partnership with IFundWomen to support Black women-owned small businesses in the United States through a new grant program and educational resources. These grants provide an opportunity for recipients to grow their businesses and continue to offer much needed services to their local (and global) communities. Applications are being accepted from June 30, 2020 through July 31, 2020.
Virtual Neighborhood Meeting Tuesday, May 5
Join us on Tuesday, May 5 from 7:00-8:00p.m for a virtual neighborhood meeting.
Join us on Tuesday, May 5 from 7:00-8:00p.m for a virtual neighborhood meeting.
Items to cover include a report from Alderman Dan Guenther, updates on BPNA's COVID relief programs, and committee reports. View the the full meeting agenda here. The board will take questions via Zoom's chat feature.
Zoom Meeting Info:
Click to Join Zoom Meeting
Or Call: 312-626-6799
Meeting ID: 937 0410 9053
Password: 060430
Questions? Email Don at president@bentonpark.org.