John Benisch

The commission reviewed reports including updates on a sustainability dashboard, sustainability toolkits, and a sustainable sites designation for Mt. Calvary Park. Discussions also covered the reinstatement of the Charging Smart program, the status of SolSmart, and a potential partnership for the Switch Together solar initiative. Additionally, the commission addressed a St. Louis County grant application for 2026 recycling events and the need for volunteer staffing support to meet grant requirements.

The committee meeting includes departmental reports from the Fire, Police, and Public Works departments. The agenda features a review of E-bike legislation to clarify that current code sections do not apply to mobility scooters, as well as a determination regarding the appropriate imagery for electric micromobility devices and electric personal assistive mobility devices within the city's code.

The committee will evaluate presentations from three finalist firms selected for the Comprehensive Logo and Branding Initiative. The discussion will cover project qualifications, proposed approaches, and team composition for each firm. Additionally, the committee will review budget allocations and determine the subsequent steps in the selection process.

The meeting began with committee reports, including gratitude expressed to staff for winter storm response efforts, and a request to investigate suspicious photography activities in Brentwood Forest. The department reports focused on the Winter Storm response from January 24-26, 2026, noting operational details from Public Works, Fire, and Police departments. Police reported on ongoing criminal cases, completion of kitchen renovations, and analysis of 2025 crime statistics showing a 25% reduction in local crime, partially attributed to Flock cameras. The Fire Department provided personnel updates, noting the appointment of an Assistant Fire Chief and a Lieutenant, and reported that the new 2026 Pierce fire engine is anticipated to be in service by early March after final inspection. Public Works detailed progress on Manchester Road streetlight repairs, coordination for the McKnight Road crosswalk pilot program equipment delivery, and completion of most concrete cutting work in Brentwood Forest. The Commission also identified and proposed legislation to remove obsolete 'No Turn on Red' references from the municipal code pertaining to Hanley Road and Highway 40. In Old Business, the Commission recommended proposed legislation regarding the regulation of electric bicycles (e-bikes) and motorized scooters for the full Board of Aldermen. New Business involved authorizing the continuation of participation in the Missouri Ground Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) Reimbursement Program for FY25 with an updated fee schedule.

Key discussions included citizen comments regarding e-bikes, trikes, and tandem bikes, particularly concerning juvenile safety and potential legislation. The Police Department reported an overall decrease in crime, a successful Retail Holiday Detail, completion of 0311 tactical training, and renovation of the PD Kitchen. The department is also investigating a sex offender complaint. The Fire Department provided updates on an active hiring/recruitment process, progress on the new shared training tower construction, and the expected delivery of a new fire engine. The department is also transitioning to the new NERIS reporting system, which temporarily delayed monthly performance measure reporting. Public Works reported on planned streetlight cabinet replacement and new wiring on Manchester Road, updates on the McKnight Road crosswalk pilot program, a survey for solar streetlights on Mari Kay Court and Douglas Court, and progress on sidewalk cutting in Brentwood Forest. The commission also resumed discussion on regulating e-bikes, motorized scooters, and motorized bicycles, focusing on proposed ordinance language addressing juvenile operation and helmet use, and the City Attorney's review.