Jon Kuhlman

The meeting included discussions regarding unfinished business such as updates on police hiring panels, including assignments for primary and alternate representatives for February and March. Status updates on a complaint review involving children at a bus stop were provided, confirming the complainant was satisfied with documentation. It was noted that the Use of Force Board is now receiving training, and the Civilian Review Board (FCRB) will only review their findings moving forward. The follow-up on mediation indicated satisfaction with the process based on participant surveys, suggesting inclusion in the annual report. An Accountability Audit Report from the Monitoring Team was discussed, validating the FCRB's oversight role and noting the burden of city requirements. The need for established police department (FPD) policy regarding interactions with the FCRB, instead of a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), was determined. New business covered the scheduling of the Quarterly Meeting with the Chief of Police, and the Board agreed on the benefit of members periodically attending neighborhood meetings to educate the community about the FCRB's functions, with specific members volunteering to attend. Miscellaneous topics included sharing information about upcoming NACOLE webinars and announcing a presentation by Consent Decree Coordinator Patricia Washington regarding her forthcoming book.

The key discussion centered on the review and confirmation of dates for the Annual Event Calendar, including Quarterly Business Socials, the Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Juneteenth Collaboration, a Street Fest with a Mannequin Challenge, a Halloween Event, and Winterfest participation. The Board also addressed marketing materials production, including flyers, window collateral, and stickers. Significant discussion focused on concerns regarding the current district website, leading to action items for restoration or creation of a new FSBD-owned site and budget establishment. Furthermore, the Board acknowledged the potential resignation of the Treasurer and initiated recruitment efforts for a replacement, alongside discussions on criteria for new board membership and outreach to potential candidates. Additional updates included local grant programs and potential state tax changes affecting local businesses.

The City Council of Ferguson is scheduled to hold an Open Meeting that includes a vote to enter a closed session. The agenda indicates that the meeting will feature Opening Ceremonies, Public Comments, and a Manager's Report, which includes a Police Department End-of-Year Data Presentation by Chief Doyle. The agenda also lists a Special Presentation and a Public Hearing. The Consent Agenda includes various Board/Commission Meeting Minutes, specifically from the Plan Commission meetings dated November 5, 2025, and February 5, 2026. New legislation to be read includes Bills No. 7331, authorizing the transfer of City-owned property to New Jerusalem Church, and Bill No. 7333, which seeks to rezone property from R-1d Single-Family Residence District to C-1 General Commercial District. The Council may move into closed session to discuss matters including legal actions, real estate transactions, personnel matters, and contract negotiations, as permitted by Section 610.021 RSMo.

The board reviewed advertising opportunities for the Ferguson Business District, including digital and static billboards, a lottery system for advertising slots, and a poster campaign. They also discussed plans for the upcoming Holiday Event, proposing a "White Elephant" celebration and considering entertainment, decor, and a date for the Holiday Street Fest Event. The board decided to change the board meeting days to the 4th Wednesday of the month at 4pm.

The City Council is considering a resolution to authorize the City Manager to execute documents for a grant-in-aid from the U.S. Soccer Foundation to install a soccer mini pitch near Plaza @ 501. The city is responsible for the concrete or asphalt foundation surface and electric hookups. The U.S. Soccer Foundation will be granted usage of the Mini Pitch for one day per year for the first five years following its completion. The Grantee agrees to fund and execute the additional surface work required for the Grant Project.