Board of Aldermen Covers Public Safety, Appointments, Road Work and Resident Concerns at May Meeting
The May 18 meeting included resident safety concerns, police recognition, annual appointments and updates on upcoming I-55 ramp closures.
By The Jefferson Review
The Board of Aldermen met May 18, 2026, for a meeting that touched on several routine city matters, but also offered a broader look at public safety, infrastructure concerns, board appointments and upcoming transportation disruptions.
The meeting opened with citizen comments, where a resident raised concerns about streetlights that appear to be out and hedges near the corner of Sunridge and Oak Trail that may be creating a visibility problem for drivers.
The resident said the hedges block the view when pulling out near a hill, making it difficult to see oncoming traffic. City officials discussed checking the streetlights and indicated the hedge issue would be looked into.
Officer Sworn In, Annual Appointments Approved
After approving the consent agenda, the board moved into reports, including the swearing in of two new police officers.
The meeting then turned to several annual appointments, including Mayor Pro Tem, Planning and Zoning liaison and Tourism Commission liaison. The board voted to keep Don Menkhus as Mayor Pro Tem for a one-year term and also approved appointments for other liaison positions.
Not every appointment moved forward immediately. The board tabled the Board of Adjustment liaison appointment after a question was raised about whether the city’s ordinance actually calls for a liaison to that board.
Officials agreed the issue should be reviewed before taking further action. The board also tabled a Police Personnel Board appointment after concerns were raised about whether the current appointee has been able to regularly attend meetings.
The meeting reflected a mix of routine city business and larger community issues, from board appointments to public safety and road closures.
Public Safety Takes Center Stage
Public safety was another major theme of the evening. The board considered a resolution, related to the city becoming a Missouri Blue Shield City.
The program recognizes communities that support local law enforcement and community policing efforts. The resolution was read by caption only and approved by the board.
During council reports, alderwoman McCain praised local police officers for their communication with residents after theft activity was reported in a neighborhood. McCain said officers did a strong job keeping residents informed and helping them know what to watch for.
Community Event Raises Money for Autism
The board also received updates on community activity. Officials noted that STL Stangs recently held a car show with 149 cars and raised about $4,000 for autism-related efforts.
City officials said the event was successful and expected next year’s car show to be even larger.
The car show brought in 149 cars and raised about $4,000 for autism-related efforts.
I-55 Ramp Closures Expected to Begin June 1
A significant transportation update was also discussed. Officials said ramps connected to I-55 southbound are expected to close beginning June 1 as work begins on a roundabout, bridge improvements and related road construction.
The closure is expected to last at least four months. Officials said residents would still be able to use Z Highway and that a representative from MoDOT is expected to attend the first meeting in June to discuss the project further.
The meeting closed with officials also mentioning plans to bring local pastors together for a discussion connected to police and community needs.
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Overall, the May 18 meeting reflected a mix of routine city business and larger community issues. The board handled appointments and administrative matters, but also spent time on resident safety concerns, police support, neighborhood thefts, road closures and community events. The discussion showed a city government working through everyday municipal responsibilities while also preparing residents for changes that could affect traffic, public safety and neighborhood quality of life in the months ahead.