Webster Groves: Spending Federal Dollars

as “awesome,” with the average visitor to the site spending 20 minutes reviewing choices and making decisions.

“These were outstanding numbers for our first time out with this tool,” Peterson said at Tuesday night’s council meeting.

The results showed a “wide disparity” of thoughts about many of the suggested programs, with a lack of any clear citizen mandate on how the funds should be utilized, Peterson said.

As Webster Groves faces projected future budget deficits, there was strong support for using the ARP funds for revenue replacement.

“The fact that you complain of a budget deficit of $4.2 million when you have a $4.6 million relief package for this exact reason is absurd,” commented one citizen on the ARP Balancing Act simulator. “Please use these funds wisely and ensure city services and employees remain intact.”

In all, Peterson said there were 111 citizen comments made on individual spending items offered for the public’s consideration.

Another citizen priority for use of federal funds is in creating a program for improved bicycle traffic — a “big winner” in improvements to city infrastructure, according to Peterson. One citizen commented:

“So many bikers come through Webster Groves. Let’s make our city a biker’s destination. It’s sustainable and healthy. Make it easy and safe for all kids to walk and bike to school.”

Some of the least favored options were funding kiosks in the business districts, funding an “on-demand” micro transit system and creating a homebuyer down payment assistance program.

Mayor Gerry Welch called the public input data “extremely interesting,” and encouraged “those of you who care about our city” to take a look at the information on the city’s website at webstergroves.org/623/AmericanRescue-Plan-Funding.

Webster Groves