City Roundup: Winter State of Emergency and Monday Public Meeting Schedule

Official Notice: Winter Weather State of Emergency

Mayor Cara Spencer has issued a continuing State of Emergency for the City of St. Louis, which remains in effect through February 22, 2026. This declaration was prompted by severe winter conditions, including significant snow accumulations and dangerously low temperatures. Under this order, the city has expanded authority for emergency contracting and the coordination of regional resources to ensure public safety.

The Street Department continues to prioritize snow removal on major arterial roads, followed by secondary and residential streets. Residents are advised that 90 snowplow operators are currently working staggered 12-hour shifts to clear thoroughfares. Furthermore, the city and its partners have activated 600 emergency shelter beds, which are available 24 hours a day to provide warmth and safety for vulnerable populations during this period of extreme cold.

Public Meeting Schedule for Monday, February 9, 2026

Several city boards and committees are scheduled to meet today to conduct official business. These meetings are open to the public and offer opportunities for community oversight of city operations and budget management. Highlights of today's schedule include:

• Board of Estimate and Apportionment: A special meeting will be held at 12:00 PM to discuss fiscal allocations and city appropriations.
• Medical Cannabis Advisory Board: The regional advisory board will convene at 3:30 PM to review health policies and program updates.
• Special Selection Committee for Debris Removal: Meeting at 4:00 PM at the Recovery Office, this committee will evaluate Request for Proposals (RFP) related to the demolition and debris removal of vacant buildings.
• Soulard Community Improvement District (CID): The Board of Directors will meet at 5:00 PM to discuss neighborhood enhancements and safety initiatives.
• Public School Retirement System (PSRSSTL): The Board of Trustees will hold its scheduled meeting today to review retirement system packets and insurance updates.
• Soulard Special Business District (SSBD): The Board of Commissioners will meet at 6:30 PM to address district-specific business and security protocols.

Public Health Advisories and Awareness

The Department of Health is urging residents to take precautions against a rise in respiratory illnesses this winter. Recommended actions include staying up to date on seasonal vaccinations and remaining home when experiencing symptoms such as fever or cough. Additionally, a nationwide health alert remains active regarding infant botulism linked to certain powdered infant formulas; parents are advised to consult official health portals for specific product safety updates.

February is also recognized as National Children's Dental Health Month and Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Month. The city encourages families to schedule regular dental checkups for children and to learn the early signs of heart defects to ensure timely medical intervention.