Educational Op Ed Regarding Prop. B By Comptroller Darlene Green

Vote NO on Proposition B -Prop B. Threatens Our City's Financial Stability

By Comptroller Darlene Green

(St. Louis-October 22, 2024)-As a long-time resident and civic leader of St. Louis, I've witnessed our beloved city weather numerous storms. We've faced shrinking population, crumbling infrastructure, socioeconomic disparities, economic downturns, and persistent crime issues. Yet, amidst these trials, St. Louis has maintained a beacon of hope - our sound financial management in city government.

Every day, our city employees work tirelessly to meet the basic needs of our constituents and these essential services form the backbone of our community. When things run smoothly, residents hardly notice. But when they don't it disturbs our quality of life.

That's why I'm deeply concerned about Proposition B on the November ballot. This misguided initiative threatens to dismantle the very system that has kept our city financially stable in turbulent times.

Despite our challenges, St. Louis has maintained an enviable high credit rating. Today it's AA, even with continued population loss. This translates to real benefits for our residents. It means lower interest rates when we borrow, allowing our limited funds to stretch further and accomplish more for our community. This financial stability is no accident; it's the result of prudent fiscal management and strong controls that have served as a check against imprudent spending.

Proposition B, under the guise of giving the Board of Aldermen more control, risks upending this delicate balance. While its proponents may argue for more legislative oversight, the reality is that our current system isn't broken - it's working exactly as intended, protecting the financial interests of St. Louis and its residents.

As voters, we have a responsibility to see Proposition B is a misguided power grab that's not in our best interest and vote NO. Our city faces enough challenges without self-inflicted wounds to our financial stability.

I urge my fellow St. Louisans to reject Proposition B. Vote NO on Proposition B on November 5th. Let's maintain good credit and financial stability that has served our city well. St. Louis deserves leaders who prioritize the city's long-term health over short-term political gains.

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Comptroller Darlene Green 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.

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