The report recognizes the city's strong financial position, improved reserves and liquidity, and continued commitment to structural balance. Moody's also noted the city's diverse economy and role as the regional employment center, while identifying ongoing challenges including the below-average incomes, population decline, and long-term infrastructure needs. 

"This positive outlook from Moody's is a clear recognition of the City of St. Louis' continued commitment to sound financial management," Comptroller Donna M.C. Baringer said. "Our strong reserves and focus on structural balance give us a solid foundation to make strategic investments in the future of our city while maintaining fiscal responsibility."

The city's available fund balance stood at approximately $941 million, with approximately $1.16 billion in net unrestricted cash at the end of the fiscal year 2025. Available fund balance represented approximately 61.5 percent of revenue, while liquidity was approximately 76 percent of revenue. 

Moody's concluded that the city's positive outlook reflects its expectation that St. Louis will maintain a healthy financial position despite the planned used of Rams settlement funds for one time capital projects. The agency expects the city's available fund balance to remain about 45 percent of revenue at the close of fiscal year 2027. 

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Comptroller Donna M.C Baringer is the chief fiscal officer of the City of St. Louis and is charged with safeguarding the city's credit rating and with protecting taxpayer dollars. Visit www.stlouismo.gov-comptroller to learn more about the Office of the Comptroller. 

The City of St. Louis' Division of Corrections, a division of the Department of Public Safety, and the St. Louis Agency on Training and Employment (SLATE) celebrated the graduation of 14 residents of the St. Louis City Justice Center who successfully completed the Prison to Prosperity Program today.

"This graduation ceremony shows the good that can happen when City departments collaborate," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "The Prison to Prosperity Program is creating real opportunities that help residents build brighter futures. By investing in people while they are incarcerated, we are strengthening families, improving public safety, and creating pathways to long-term success."

The intensive 10-week program combines workforce development with personal growth. Led by professionals from SLATE, participants receive instruction in emotional regulation, goal setting, job readiness, financial literacy, communication, and other essential life skills that prepare them for employment and successful reentry.  

"The program is really about meeting people where they are and giving them the opportunity to reflect, grow, and build a better future," said Connie Johnson, Executive Director of SLATE. "Our role is to connect participants with the training resources and employment opportunities they need to successfully reenter the workforce and become self-sufficient."

A hallmark of the program is the focus on the head, heart, and hands—encouraging participants to reflect on their experiences, develop healthier decision-making skills, build confidence, and gain practical workforce knowledge they can immediately apply upon returning to the community. Graduates leave with a renewed sense of purpose and the tools needed to pursue meaningful employment and long-term stability. 

"The program really helped me to look at things differently. It taught me how to forgive myself. I never had an experience like this program. The information we get, we share with the guys in our wing. SLATE helps us, and we share that information to help them. I really appreciate SLATE coming in and helping us out," said program graduate Michael Hollins. 

Following their release, graduates will continue working with SLATE to build upon the skills developed during the program and connect with employment opportunities and other resources that support successful reintegration into the community. 

"We want every resident who leaves the City Justice Center to have the tools, confidence and support needed to succeed," said Nate Hayward, Commissioner of Corrections. "The Prison to Prosperity Program equips residents with practical skills, personal growth and a roadmap for the future. Their success after release is one of the greatest measures of our success." 

This graduating class marks the first cohort of the Prison to Prosperity Program. Building on its early success, the Division of Corrections and SLATE are already planning future cohorts to expand the program's impact and provide more residents with opportunities to rebuild their lives through education, workforce preparation, and continued support. 

Interest in future cohorts is already growing among City Justice Center residents. "The guys are already asking when the next class will start," said program graduate Ralph Quinn. "They always wanted to know what we learned each week, and now they want to take it themselves."

He has a passion for its history, and that history will be celebrated at the market's Founder's Day Bluegrass Festival on August 29, from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Bob also has a strong commitment to the market's present place in the community, and a vision for its future.

We asked him to share some of those insights.

Q. What has allowed Soulard Market to survive for more than two centuries while so many historic markets disappeared?

A. The City of St. Louis is proud to operate Soulard Farmers Market, among the country's oldest and most popular farmers markets and the longest continuously operating market west of the Mississippi.

The City continues to invest in the market. Last year, significant improvements were made to the market's exterior, including electrical updates, new roofing, fascia, and soffit over the vendor wings, and tuckpointing of the entire market building. In addition, many of the architectural and style elements of the market which have become worn down by age and weather are being repaired and preserved.

In addition, our vendors are integral to the endurance of the market. Some of our farming families have sold their produce with us for generations.

Q. Soulard Market has been part of St. Louis through enormous changes. What has remained at the heart of the market despite those shifts?

The market holds a special place in the community as a historic landmark and tourist destination, as well as a centrally-located market where shoppers can find budget-friendly fresh foods, prepared foods, apparel, souvenirs, and other goods.

It is a place where vendors have the backing of a consistent and loyal customer base in a market that is open year-round.

The market offers a low-cost, low-risk setting. With affordable rent and a steady stream of customers, the market serves as a small business incubator and opportunity for entrepreneurs to build and refine a new business.
 

Q. How has the mix of vendors and products changed over the years?

In the last 20 years, the demographic makeup of Soulard Market changed from almost exclusively farm related and expanded to include mixed goods and food. Our farmers and produce vendors will always be anchors at the market. Yet shoppers appreciate the variety of goods offered here - all in one location. In addition to fresh fruits and vegetables, our vendors offer fresh meat and fish, baked goods, honey, candy, beverages, snacks, and prepared meals. Non-food vendors offer apparel, health and beauty accessories, fresh flowers, and crafts.

The mix of vendors has allowed the market to serve as a small business incubator and opportunity for entrepreneurs to build and refine a new business. For example, Freddie Lee's Gourmet Sauces (now sold in 1,000 stores) and Lona's Lil Eats, a 2019 James Beard semi-finalist, made their starts at the market and now have their own locations. 
 

Q. Soulard has long been a gathering place for the community. Why do you think the market has remained an important part of daily life in St. Louis?

We strive to be a welcoming place for our customers, neighbors, people living across the St. Louis region, and visitors from all over the world. Soulard Farmers Market truly has something for everyone. 
In addition, its setting is a great location - close to downtown St. Louis, and the market is a cornerstone in the Soulard neighborhood which is rich in historic preservation. Soulard Market Park is also connected to the market and includes several children's playgrounds, a pavilion, benches, and an event courtyard for neighborhood summer concerts and events. 
 

Q. If someone only had an hour at Soulard Market, where should they go?

The market has 148 vendor stands, but even an hour is a good amount of time to stroll through the halls of the market and see them all. Some recommendations include a stop at the Soulard Spice Shop in the Grand Hall, a stop at one or more of our many produce vendors, a stop for a snack or a meal, and lastly, a Bloody Mary at Julia's Market Café, named after Marie "Julia" Soulard who donated the land that hosts Soulard Farmers Market before her death in 1845.
 

Q. What do you hope visitors understand about St. Louis through Soulard Market beyond the food they find there?

St. Louis is rich in history, culture, and good food - and visitors can find all of that at Soulard Farmers Market. St. Louisans are known for Midwestern hospitality, and you'll find a lot of that at the market as well. Our vendors work hard to offer their products and it shows in the quality of their goods and in their customer service. The market reflects the whole St. Louis community, both in vendor and customer composition. 
 

Preliminary engineering plans are now complete and the City has announced a public meeting will be held at the Carondelet Branch of the St. Louis Public Library, 6800 Michigan Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63111, on Monday August 24, 2026, between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard concerning their views on the design. Tentative schedules for right of way acquisition and construction will be discussed at the meeting. An open-house format will be used, and persons may discuss the project and offer comments at any time between the prescribed hours.

Maps, plats, and other detail information prepared by the City of St. Louis, will be available for public inspection and copying at the offices of the Board of Public Service, Room 301 City Hall, 1200 Market Street, St. Louis, MO 63103. Written statements and exhibits as well as oral statements will be received at the hearing. Written statements and exhibits received within ten working days after the date of the meeting will be made a part of the public hearing records. Comments will be accepted in the form of writing or providing a recorded statement. Comments can be submitted directly to the City via the Loughborough Bridge Project Page. 

People with disabilities who require special services at the public hearing should notify the City at (314) 589-6605 by August 17, 2026, so arrangements for those services can be made.

The Financial First Aid Resource Expos will be held:

• Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
  • Location: Rung for Women, 2717 Sidney St., St. Louis, MO 63104
• Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
  • Location: Delmar DivINe, 5535 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112

Both events are free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided, and language interpreters will be available to assist residents with language barriers. 

Unexpected emergencies create significant financial hardships for individuals and families through unexpected expenses, lost income, property damage, and disruptions to daily life. These financial shocks have long-lasting consequences, particularly for underserved communities that may already face barriers to financial stability.

"Preparing for emergencies isn't just about having supplies on hand; it's also about protecting your financial well-being," said St. Louis City Treasurer Adam Layne. "These expos will connect residents with resources and information that can help them weather unexpected financial challenges and recover more quickly when emergencies do occur."

"Households that take important steps to prepare for disasters, including gathering essential personal and financial documents, often have an easier road to recovery," said Greggory J. Favre, CEMA Commissioner. "Pulling together your key records now, from IDs and medical information to any insurance and banking details, is one of the simplest and most practical things you can do to protect your family."

The expos will feature several community organizations for information and resources, and a guest speaker Alicia Lewis, with Focus Partners Wealth. Ms. Lewis brings more than 15 years of experience in financial planning and risk management. She specializes in helping individuals and families navigate financial decisions through a comprehensive, practical, and client-centered approach.

In addition to recovering from the immediate effects of an emergency, many residents must navigate complex assistance programs, determine eligibility requirements, and understand how to access available resources. Research shows that a household's financial stability before a disaster occurs can greatly affect its ability to recover and benefit from relief programs.

OFE and CEMA have also worked to add Financial Resources to the City's "Help Resources" website. Organizations listed provide career and financial education, assistance with credit reports (obtaining and reviewing), and securing stable housing. To view and connect with these resources, visit the St. Louis Help Resources - Financial Resources.

For more information about the Financial First Aid Resource Expos, visit stlofe.org/events or stlouis-mo.gov/ema. You can also contact OFE at (314) 350-3916 or CEMA at (314) 444-5466. 

About the Office of Financial Empowerment
The Office of Financial Empowerment, housed within the St. Louis Treasurer's Office, is dedicated to improving the financial stability and economic mobility of St. Louis residents. Through innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and accessible financial education, the Office empowers individuals and families to build long-term financial security and create pathways to economic opportunity.

About the City Emergency Management Agency
The City Emergency Management Agency coordinates preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts for emergencies and disasters affecting the City of St. Louis. The agency works to strengthen community resilience and ensure residents have access to critical resources before, during, and after emergencies.

Media Contacts: 

• St. Louis Treasurer's Office Contact: Theresa Bush
  • (314) 366-3880 | busht@stltreasurer.org
• CEMA Contact: Kim Vanden Berg
  • (314) 928-6336 | VandenBergK@stlouis-mo.gov

Key findings from the AAR reveal:

• The $3.36M in funds designated towards the Code Blue effort were sufficient to shelter most of the individuals who requested emergency shelter during the winter months
• At peak capacity, the system brought on over 700 overflow shelter beds across most regions of the City of St. Louis
• Rally points and pickup points placed in targeted areas were instrumental in assisting over 500 unique persons into shelters
• At peak capacity, the system brought online shelter beds for myriad populations, including youth, seniors, the disabled, folks with pets, people with severe mental illness and substance abuse issues
• Though the program was effective at sheltering, the system needs better infrastructure for data keeping and tracking of shelter residents

"This After Action Review confirms that the Code Blue program was a huge success at a critical time in our city and a big improvement over previous efforts," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "I'm so grateful for the work of everyone involved and, for the first time ever, am excited the City has allocated general revenue funds to continue winter support for the unhoused."

The City of St. Louis will be leveraging the findings of the report to prepare for the 2026-2027 winter season. The City's Department of Human Services (DHS) is already making headway on some of the recommendations with the launch of a Request for Proposals to establish partnerships for emergency shelter providers (day and overnight), transportation providers, and data solution providers.

"We learned so much during the first year and we want to make good use of the $2 million allocated to this program in the FY27 budget," said Dr. Adam Pearson, Director of the Department of Human Services. "Taking the time to conduct this review and then using that information to make decisions moving forward not only makes us good stewards of tax payer dollars, but also sets us up for maximum impact this coming winter."

The Code Blue analysis was led by DHS in coordination with the St. Louis City Department of Health and other Code Blue partners. Activation and weather monitoring data was provided by the City of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency. 

The report is available on the Department of Human Services website.

Today Mayor Cara Spencer announces the hiring of Dr. Faisal Khan as the city's new Director of Health. Khan's deep experience and vision for the department will be key to addressing long-standing public health challenges in St Louis.

"Dr. Khan is a leader with deep regional knowledge and national executive experience, and we are thrilled he agreed to return to St. Louis and join our efforts to take the St. Louis Health Department to the next level," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "This is a critical role in my cabinet and I am confident he is the right person at the right time to lead our efforts addressing the serious public health risks facing St. Louisans. His proven leadership and experience will help us make our community healthier and more resilient."

Most recently Khan successfully led the Seattle & King County (WA) Health Department, one of the largest in the nation. His choice to return to St. Louis is intentional, bringing the best of this experience back to St. Louis where he worked for nearly a decade in leadership at the St. Louis County Department of Health. 

"I am honored Mayor Spencer trusted me with this role and I look forward to getting to work for the people of St. Louis," said Dr. Faisal Khan. "I have spent my career studying and addressing the root causes of health outcomes. I know with the team the city has in place, we can make a real difference in the health and quality of life for St. Louis residents."

Victoria Anwuri, the St. Louis Commissioner of Health, served as the Interim Director of the St. Louis Department of Health since 2025. She will continue to serve as the Commissioner of Health.

"I want to express my deep gratitude to Commissioner Anwuri for her superb leadership of the Department of Health for the past year as we searched for a new permanent Health Director," said Spencer. "Commissioner Anwuri's commitment to the health of all St. Louis residents is evident in everything she does and in the results the Department achieved under her leadership during the last year."

Dr. Khan's first day as Director will be August 3, 2026.

• Program Manager I - Apprenticeship Coordinator - This position will help expand and coordinate apprenticeship opportunities by working with employers, training providers, community partners, and workforce stakeholders to develop and strengthen registered apprenticeship programs throughout the City of St. Louis.
• Program Manager I - Special Projects Manager - This position will oversee strategic workforce development initiatives and special projects, coordinating cross-functional efforts, managing program implementation, and supporting innovative initiatives that advance SLATE's mission.

Both positions offer an opportunity to contribute to meaningful workforce development efforts while helping connect residents with employment, training, and career advancement opportunities.

Qualified candidates are encouraged to review the complete job descriptions, qualifications, and application requirements through the City of St. Louis Career Portal.

Interested applicants can learn more and apply online:

● Program Manager I - Apprenticeship Coordinator (Job #260000GJ)
● Program Manager I - Special Projects Manager (Job #260000GL)

Applications will be accepted through the City of St. Louis Career Portal. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

About SLATE Missouri Job Center
SLATE is the City of St. Louis government agency providing no-cost services to job seekers and businesses, including employment assistance, job training, and career advancement opportunities. Since 1975, SLATE has remained committed to developing a strong, inclusive workforce that supports economic growth throughout the city. For more information, visit www.stlworks.com or call (314) 589-8000.

The Department of Public Safety recently hosted its annual Dedicated Public Servant Awards, recognizing employees whose exceptional service, leadership, and commitment strengthen the department and improve the quality of life for the residents of St. Louis.

The Department of Public Safety Director's Award honors employees who exemplify the values of public service through leadership, teamwork, innovation, outstanding customer service, and a steadfast commitment to serving the City of St. Louis. Recipients and nominees alike represent the dedication and professionalism that define the department's workforce.

"The awards are one way to recognize exceptional service to the citizens of St. Louis," said Public Safety Director Shawn Dace. "The individuals recognized and celebrated are top-performing employees who dedicate their lives every day to excellence."

More than 70 employees were nominated for this year's awards, with one employee from each division selected to receive the Department of Public Safety Director's Award.

• Building Division: John McLaughlin
• City of St. Louis Emergency Management Agency: Kristen Capps-Jones
• Civilian Oversight Division: Dotlyn Bedessie
• Division of Corrections: Major Lenita Cherry
• Excise Division: Gwendolyn Cherry-Simms
• St. Louis Fire Department and Bureau of Emergency Medical Services: Mary Deeken
• Neighborhood Stabilization: Marna Coleman
• Office of Violence Prevention: Claudine Allen

The Dedicated Public Servant Awards are held annually to recognize outstanding service and leadership throughout the Department of Public Safety. Employees nominate their colleagues for the honor, and recipients are selected by a committee of their peers. Nominations for next year's awards will open later this calendar year.

About the Department of Public Safety

The Department of Public Safety is the largest municipal department in the City of St. Louis, overseeing the Fire Department, seven major divisions, and the City Justice Center. Through coordinated public safety services, the Department works to protect lives and property, promote safe neighborhoods, and enhance the quality of life for everyone who lives, works, or visits the City of St. Louis.

"This new funding is a lifeline for our residents," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "Anything we can do to lend a hand during this difficult time, is critical. Thank you to Senator Eric Schmitt and his staff who have worked tirelessly to secure these federal resources for St. Louis tornado recovery."

During her recent visit to Washington D.C., Mayor Spencer met with Missouri's federal delegation including Sen. Schmitt, Sen. Hawley, and Rep. Wesley Bell to appeal for expanded disaster relief. Senator Schmitt, a St. Louis native, was instrumental in securing the FEMA award.

"Following last year's devastating tornado, the St. Louis community rallied together in support of our neighbors, and I have been proud to partner with the Trump Administration, Mayor Spencer, and Governor Kehoe to help deliver essential relief as our community recovers. Thanks to this funding, eligible St. Louisans can partner with an expert team of disaster case managers to develop and carry out their long‑term recovery plans, including the strenuous application process for recovery programs. There's still more work to be done, and we will continue to work together to deliver for St. Louis."

City residents impacted by the May 16 tornado have faced a complicated system of disaster relief programs. Disaster Case Managers have a proven track record of helping residents access assistance programs through reputable organizations and agencies.

"Our residents are at the heart of this recovery, and every family deserves the support they need to recover and hopefully return to the neighborhoods they call home," said Mayor Cara Spencer. "I am grateful to the United Way of Greater St. Louis, the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, LifeWise, HOPE, and all of our community partners for standing alongside our residents and making this critical support possible."

The Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) submitted the FEMA application and will oversee the program, while United Way of Greater St. Louis will lead delivery services with support from additional volunteer and faith-based partners.

"Disaster Case Management pairs families with a dedicated guide to support their long-term recovery and stability," said SEMA Director Jim Remillard. "These specialists are trained to connect individuals and households with resources and ongoing services. We appreciate their dedication and expertise in assisting those severely impacted by the destruction of the St. Louis tornado who continue to cope with its consequences."

Historically, FEMA funds disaster case management for two years following a federal disaster declaration. That did not occur after the May 16 EF3 tornado. Instead, the City of St. Louis has invested more than $3 million from interest earned on the Rams Settlement Fund to sustain disaster case management and housing case work over the past year. Those funds were expected to be exhausted by this August. The initial request for FEMA disaster case management funding was submitted in early September of 2025.

FEMA funding for disaster case management begins on August 1. Through this funding, the United Way of Greater St. Louis will continue to partner with Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, LifeWise and HOPE to offer professional case management services delivered by experienced staff. To date, more than 1,200 residents have applied for assistance through the program, with new applications continuing to come in each week.