It appeared that in the summer of 2019, Civitas interns would be analyzing from a number of perspectives the proposed “Better Together” program of St. Louis City – St. Louis Consolidation. When in late spring it became clear that “Better Together” was moribund, at least for the moment, Civitas broadened its scope for the summer. Students did a variety of independent projects, but also examined possible collaboration in the St. Louis metropolitan area from a number of perspectives.
Specifically what students did was:
- Extensive polling of area citizens on the topics of consolidation and/or cooperation.
- “Intercept” or “person-to-person” polling in downtown St. Louis, Soulard, Maplewood, Kirkwood, Webster Groves, O’Fallon (MO), and St. Charles, MO
- On-line polling with select audiences in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County.
- Interviews with local politicians, teachers, police officers and others
- AM-Radio programs discussing relevant issues
- Video discussions on issues related to consolidation and/or collaboration
- Podcasts
In a nutshell, support among those who we interviewed and discussed consolidation and/or collaboration was tepid. In no demographic did we sense strong support for major unification.
The dialogue continues on the Civitas blog. We welcome everyone’s participation.
Student interviews:
- STL Consolidation: Follow Up Thoughts
- Political Consultant Rosetta Okohson
- Educators Mrs. Morton, Mr. Reese, & Mr. Holden
- Educator Mrs. Jordan
- Councilman Terry Hollander
- Chesterfield Mayor Bob Nations
- High School Teacher Mrs. Dubis
Polling Data:
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