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Call us 877-451-9251Water Damage Restoration in St. Louis, MO
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Saint Louis University in St. Louis to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in St. Louis, MO is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in St. Louis. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
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Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Campbell House Museum in St. Louis, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in St. Louis.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in St. Louis, MO
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Brentmoor Retirement Community in St. Louis for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in St. Louis, MO, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in St. Louis?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Tower Grove Park in St. Louis. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in St. Louis, MO, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the St. Louis restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in St. Louis, MO, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in St. Louis, MO
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in St. Louis, MO, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Eleven Eleven Mississippi in St. Louis. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a St. Louis rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in St. Louis, MO
Average White Band caps 5-decade funk and soul run with St. Louis show
Miya Norfleethttps://www.stlpr.org/show/st-louis-on-the-air/2024-12-10/average-white-band-caps-5-decade-funk-and-soul-run-with-st-louis-show
Average White Band has reached extraordinary heights. In its 53 years, the R&B and funk band has become one of the most sampled groups in hip-hop and toured the world many times over. The band's inclusion in film and television soundtracks ensures that most people know at least one song from its long discography.Average White Band is playing its final show on Friday at Henry Givens Auditorium at Harris-Stowe State University. Saxophonist Fred Vigdor told St. Louis on the Air that serendipity brought everyone together for on...
Average White Band has reached extraordinary heights. In its 53 years, the R&B and funk band has become one of the most sampled groups in hip-hop and toured the world many times over. The band's inclusion in film and television soundtracks ensures that most people know at least one song from its long discography.
Average White Band is playing its final show on Friday at Henry Givens Auditorium at Harris-Stowe State University. Saxophonist Fred Vigdor told St. Louis on the Air that serendipity brought everyone together for one last gig.
“Two, three months ago we got a call that there was a promoter in town that wanted to have the band, and it just so happened to be after what was supposed to be our final gig,” he said. “I lobbied very hard for it because, since I've moved here, whenever anybody finds out what I do, they all want to know when we're playing.”
Vigdor shared that he’s excited to have the opportunity to play one last time as the Average White Band. He joined the band 28 years ago, and around that time is when he first learned of St. Louis’ beloved music venue, Mississippi Nights.
“One of my roommates after college was a bass player named Al Caldwell who was from St. Louis. He used to always talk about this club that he had a steady gig at with the Ralph Butler band,” he said. “Then finally I got to play there in 1996.”
Vigdor moved to St. Louis with his wife — a St. Louis native — two years ago. He said that he’s felt the love for music more here than other cities he’s lived in before.
“St. Louis has really been a great change for myself and my wife. [We were] living in Atlanta for 20 years, and we never really had much of a community there. And since moving here, it's been amazing. The community supports the arts so much more than what I'm used to.”
This last show has even more at stake: The performance will be recorded for a documentary about Average White Band that’s slated to be released in 2025.
“We've done a lot of live recordings and stuff, but we can't redo this one because it's the last gig,” Vigdor said. “So, we have to get it right.”
For more with Fred Vigdor and Average White Band, including how Fred was brought in as lead saxophonist and his personal favorite of the rap music that samples AWB, listen to St. Louis on the Air on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or click the play button below.
Average White Band caps 5-decade funk and soul run with St. Louis show
Related Event
What: Average White Band Farewell TourWhen: Dec 13Where: Henry Givens Administration Building Auditorium at Harris-Stowe State University (3026 Laclede Ave., St. Louis, MO 63103)
“St. Louis on the Air” brings you the stories of St. Louis and the people who live, work and create in our region. The show is produced by Miya Norfleet, Emily Woodbury, Danny Wicentowski, Elaine Cha and Alex Heuer. Jada Jones is our production assistant. The audio engineer is Aaron Doerr.
Send questions and comments about this story to feedback@stlpublicradio.org.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ECNL ST. LOUIS
theecnl.comhttps://theecnl.com/news/2024/12/10/ecnl-girls-everything-you-need-to-know-about-ecnl-st-louis.aspx
The ECNL Girls are headed to the Midwest this weekend for ECNL St. Louis (December 12-15). The four day event will see 246 teams from the U15-U18/19 age groups in action.The weekend will be highlighted by Friday night’s Continental Tire ECNL National Selection Game. The game will kickoff at 6:15 PM from Field #1 at World Wide Technology Soccer Park and can be live streamed here.Check out all the information below to learn everything you need to know abo...
The ECNL Girls are headed to the Midwest this weekend for ECNL St. Louis (December 12-15). The four day event will see 246 teams from the U15-U18/19 age groups in action.
The weekend will be highlighted by Friday night’s Continental Tire ECNL National Selection Game. The game will kickoff at 6:15 PM from Field #1 at World Wide Technology Soccer Park and can be live streamed here.
Check out all the information below to learn everything you need to know about this event.
Date: December 12-15, 2024
Location: Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex | St. Louis, Missouri Lou Fusz Athletic Complex | St. Louis, Missouri Missouri Rush Soccer Park | O’Fallon, Missouri World Wide Technology Soccer Park (NSG Only) | Fenton, Missouri
Schedule: Every team is guaranteed three games in three days, playing competition of similar levels outside of their conference. Check out the ECNL app for the complete schedule or view the full schedule of games here.
Team List: View the full list of teams here
Streaming: Watch games from ECNL St. Louis as well as Friday night’s Continental Tire ECNL National Selection Game here
Three Things To Know
Continental Tire NSG Rosters: The Continental Tire ECNL National Selection Games are “all-star” matches that bring top players at each regular season ECNL National Event together for representative competition on the first day of the event. They are one component of the ECNL National Selection Program, which encompasses all player identification and development programs within the league.
Players were selected for the games by ECNL Player Identification staff through a combination of scouting and recommendations based on performances over the past several months. These athletes will not compete for their clubs on this day in order to properly rest and prepare for the National Selection Game.
Rosters
East
Caroline Birkel (SLSG Navy)
Jayla Blue (FC Alliance)
Alessia Cerulo (Match Fit Academy)
Isabelle Dalke (SLSG Navy)
Madeline DiMaria (SLSG Navy)
Maya Engel (VDA)
Lilah Helwig (FC DELCO)
Makenna Holub (Eastside FC)
Audrey McKeen (VDA)
Samantha Ogden (Kansas City Athletics)
Bryn Overbaugh (NVA)
Sadie Peterson (Charlotte SA)
Elizabeth Powell (Ohio Premier)
Frances Reuland (Portland Thorns)
Eloise Rubinstein (SUSA FC)
Abigail Salgado (Internationals SC)
Vivian Wheeler (San Juan SC)
Emma Workman (CESA Liberty)
West
Maci Barlow (Seattle United)
Vanessa Cabrera (Pateadores)
Tyra Chu (Nationals SC)
Anya DeBoer (Washington Premier FC)
Lileah Devereaux (Charlotte SA)
Madison Dockery (Fairfax VA Union)
Madie Donovan (Sporting Iowa)
Clara Dowdle (Sting Royal)
Summer Fishel (FC Pride Elite)
Chloe Guenther (Kansas City Athletics)
Sophia Hall (Penn Fusion SA)
Gianna Hanf (Match Fit Academy)
Kylie Maxwell (Philadelphia Ukrainian Nationals)
Paige Miller (Gretna Elite Academy)
Trista Morris (Racing Louisville Academy)
Michaela Panella (WNY Flash)
Jordan Rowan (Internationals SC)
Reagan Thompson (United Futbol Academy)
To view a full list of the rosters for the National Selection Game, click here.
More Information: To view the address for the complex and more ECNL St. Louis, click here.
###
About the ECNL:
The ECNL is the nation’s leading youth soccer development platform. The ECNL respects and celebrates the unique individuality of every youth soccer player and club, supporting and enabling them to unleash their unfettered passion and fierce tenacity in striving to achieve their potential.
The ECNL mission to Raise the Game is a total commitment to create the best possible environment for players, coaches, referees and administrators, with a determination to constantly question convention and challenge the status quo in youth sports.
The ECNL Commitment:
We will lead, set our eyes on new horizons, and pursue them relentlessly. Born out of the belief in a better way. Continued in the ever-evolving pursuit of excellence.
Girls FB: /ECNLGirls | Girls IG: @ECNLGirls | Girls TW: @ECNLGirls
SPLS audit reports questionable spending by former superintendent
Spectrum News Staffhttps://spectrumlocalnews.com/mo/st-louis/news/2024/12/10/slps-releases-results-of-management-assessment-audit
SCHOOL REPORTUPDATED 4:45 PM CT Dec. 10, 2024 PUBLISHED 7:57 AM CT Dec. 10, 2024 ST. LOUIS — A report looking into the Saint Louis Public Schools shows the former superintendent spent thousands of dollars on questionable credit card charges that appear to violate policy.The audit comes after the previous superintendent, Dr. Keisha Scarlett, had her contract terminated by the Board of Education over questions about her hiring and spending practices.The report found $26,500 in questionable charges on cards iss...
SCHOOL REPORT
UPDATED 4:45 PM CT Dec. 10, 2024 PUBLISHED 7:57 AM CT Dec. 10, 2024
ST. LOUIS — A report looking into the Saint Louis Public Schools shows the former superintendent spent thousands of dollars on questionable credit card charges that appear to violate policy.
The audit comes after the previous superintendent, Dr. Keisha Scarlett, had her contract terminated by the Board of Education over questions about her hiring and spending practices.
The report found $26,500 in questionable charges on cards issued to Scarlett for items like charcuterie boards, Edible Arrangements, Massage Envy, church gala, donation to the Missouri Botanical Garden, among others.
Scarlett also was incurring automobile charges on her district card while receiving an $800 monthly vehicle allowance, according to the report.
The audit also looked at hiring practices. It points out $146,000 was spent on temporary contracts for newly hired chiefs and cabinet members for work prior to their “official” start dates.
Also, she authorized retroactive payments to eight chiefs and deputies totaling $94,801, according to the report.
The report by Armanino LLP was made available online Tuesday.
"Several of the issues noted during our assessment were due to the limited level of oversight related to the Superintendent's position," the audit states. "Due to the level of authority inherent in the Superintendent’s position, policy violations can occur, but not be brought to the Board’s attention due to the fear of possible retaliation."
In response to the findings, a statement from Scarlett’s legal team says the investigation was conducted “secretly, blatantly violating proper standards for independence and reliability.”
It claims the report is biased and lacks credibility because she was not informed of the investigation or of the allegations against her, was not asked any questions or interviewed and was not given the chance to provide documentation.
“The Board of Education used this sham investigation to unlawfully terminate Dr. Scarlett, while intentionally excluding her from the process,” the statement reads.
“The Board had already decided to terminate Dr. Scarlett and then after-the-fact conducted a sham investigation to justify their decision. She was never informed of its results and never provided with a copy of the report. Dr. Scarlett learned that the investigation had concluded through the media.”
As of Tuesday, Scarlett has not reviewed the report, according to her legal team.
Below are some of the finding in the 50-page report regarding the hiring practices and policy violations from July 2023 to August 2024.
During her transition period, Scarlett incurred travel expenses totaling $4,820, however, no evidence was found that reimbursement was approved by the Board. Her employment contract required approval by the Board prior to the reimbursement.
The report states that Scarlett appears to have implemented a new salary structure without Board approval, which included additional salary increases for cabinet members “in excess of the amounts set forth in the compensation study.”
Before Scarlett began her role as superintendent for SLPS, the existing, approved salary range for chiefs were between $84,254.61-$185,961, with an average chief salary of $166,469. After she started, the newly hired chief of schools and chief of staff were paid $185,961, “significantly” more than existing chiefs.
Chief salary increases were entered into the system in January 2024, with an effective date of Dec. 16, 2023, according to the report. Salaries of ten chiefs were increased to $194,000 at the time, with the goal of increasing them to $200,000 in July 2024, which followed the implementation of 3% district-wide raises. The salaries for four deputy chiefs were increased to $175,000–$182,000. Two newly hired chiefs and two promoted deputies also received the higher salaries
Five out of eight sole source/emergency agreements more than $50,000, which were approved by the Board during open or closed sessions. However, the contract with Impact Educational that totaled $234,000 was not approved by the Board.
The report states that the contract was a walk-on to the November 2023 agenda, but it was removed by the Board and was not resubmitted to the Board by district leadership.
However, Scarlett signed the agreement and the full amount of the contract was invoiced and paid.
Sponsored Visa submissions by SLPS were completed for two employees without Board approval, according to the report. The district made efforts to assist the two employees in obtaining work Visas, and in doing so, the district promoted them to positions that would potentially help them to qualify for the Visas.
The report states that Scarlett charged vehicle expenses on her superintendent card and superintendent department card while also receiving a monthly vehicle allowance of $800 or when a district car was issued to her. There are questionable charges on those credit cards, totaling approximately $1,700.
There were questionable charges across all four cards that totaled approximately $34,000 with about $26,500 associated with the individual card issued to Scarlett, said the report. Some of the “unusual credit card transactions” that appear to be violations include flowers and Edible Arrangement gifts for Board of Ed members and district employees, furniture from Ikea and Wayfair and 22 meal purchases totaling $14,901 during retreats and with consultants.
The report explains card policy states it can not be used to purchase meals, conference registrations and gifts. It also points out that it should never be used for personal purposes even if the cardholder plans on reimbursing the district.
The report states that Scarlett used three company credit cards for prohibited traveling expenses, totaling $12,600, with about $11,500 of that amount associated with the individual card issued to her. She also exceeded lodging expense limits by $423. Scarlett also charged meals to a company credit card while receiving a meal per diem of $50 per day while traveling.
There are questionable transactions on two company credit cards of prohibited or restricted non-reimbursable travel expenses, totaling approximately $19,500, with about $17,000 of that amount associated with the individual card issued to Scarlett. The policy prohibits or restricts certain charges such as expenses incurred by non-employees, internet access fees, tips/gratuities, travel to meetings, unapproved purchases, etc.
Policy notes that approval from the superintendent is required for traveling to conferences held outside the U.S. The report states there was an international delegation to Japan purchase in May 2024, totaling about $10,000 on a company credit card. Scarlett signed the travel form, however, there is no date on the form to confirm if it was approved before the trip.
The Board of Education with Interim Superintendent Dr. Borishade is working to implement corrective action and policy changes as recommended in the report.
Some of those changes include:
Business groups sue to block higher minimum wage, sick leave in Missouri
Rachel Lippmannhttps://www.stlpr.org/economy-business/2024-12-09/business-groups-sue-to-block-higher-minimum-wage-sick-leave-in-missouri
Business groups have challenged a Missouri constitutional amendment that increases the state’s minimum wage and gives more workers access to paid sick leave.Voters passed Proposition A with 57% approval in November. It raises the minimum wage in the state to $15 an hour, tying future increases to inflation, and gives more workers paid sick leave.The Board of State Canvas...
Business groups have challenged a Missouri constitutional amendment that increases the state’s minimum wage and gives more workers access to paid sick leave.
Voters passed Proposition A with 57% approval in November. It raises the minimum wage in the state to $15 an hour, tying future increases to inflation, and gives more workers paid sick leave.
The Board of State Canvassers certified the results of the election on Thursday. The groups, including the state’s chamber of commerce, the Missouri Grocers Association and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, filed suit the next day.
“While Proposition A is bad policy and will have extreme and detrimental effects on Missouri’s businesses, that is not the basis of this action; instead the election irregularities and the constitutional violations are so significant that the election results must be overturned and Proposition A must be declared invalid,” the groups’ attorney, Marc Ellinger, wrote in the suit.
The lawsuit claims there are a number of constitutional problems with the language of the amendment. The groups said the language that voters saw on the ballot summarizing the measure was misleading because it implied that all workers would get paid sick leave, while some are exempt. The suit says the fiscal note outlining costs is also unfair because it did not specify that local governments could see more tax revenue because of higher wages.
Backers of Proposition A denounced the suit.
“It’s sickening to me that corporations are trying to steal our victory away and quiet the will of the voters who made this win possible,” said Terrence Wise, a longtime advocate for higher wages with Stand Up KC. “It hurts our families and our communities and simply put, it’s un-American.”
The first minimum wage increase, to $13.75, will start Jan. 1 unless the Missouri Supreme Court agrees with the challenge. Under state law, the judges have to hear the case.
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CDA to Present $4.8 Million Check to Jubilee Community Development Corporation
stlouis-mo.govhttps://www.stlouis-mo.gov/government/departments/community-development/news/cda-to-present-$4-8-million-check-to-jubilee-community-development-corporation.cfm
The City of St. Louis Community Development Administration (CDA) is proud to support the transformative work of theJubilee Community Development Corporation in the Fairgrounds neighborhood.On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 1:15 PM, CDA will present a ceremonial check for $4,787,030 to Jubilee CDC at the historic Eliot School Building, located at 4247 N. Florissant Ave. The funding will help rehabilitate the 51,380-square-foot Eliot School, built in ...
The City of St. Louis Community Development Administration (CDA) is proud to support the transformative work of theJubilee Community Development Corporation in the Fairgrounds neighborhood.
On Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at 1:15 PM, CDA will present a ceremonial check for $4,787,030 to Jubilee CDC at the historic Eliot School Building, located at 4247 N. Florissant Ave. The funding will help rehabilitate the 51,380-square-foot Eliot School, built in 1898 and vacant since 2004, into the Jubilee Wellness Center—a state-of-the-art addiction treatment and recovery facility.
The $4.8 million in funding from the Community Development Administration (CDA) will support the transformative work of Jubilee Community Development Corporation in the Fairgrounds neighborhood. This funding is directed toward the rehabilitation of the historic Eliot School into the Jubilee Wellness Center. Built in 1898 and vacant since 2004, the 51,380-square-foot school building will be transformed into a state-of-the-art facility addressing critical issues like addiction, homelessness, and mental health.
Jubilee Wellness Center is made possible by CDA Neighborhood Transformation Grants funded by Affordable Housing Production ($2.5M), HOME-ARP ($429K), ARPA ($500K), and Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) ($1,358,000). CDA’s investment is leveraging additional private philanthropic support, as well as state and federal historic tax credits, making Jubilee Wellness Center one of the largest private developments north of the Delmar Divide in 75 years. The total project cost of $24 million is a collaborative effort to revitalize the neighborhood, honor the building’s historic architecture, and critically address the shortage of detox and recovery beds in St. Louis.
In addition, CDA is funding the Jubilee CDC’s conversion of the vacant Economy Inn Motel at 4206 N Grand Blvd. into a supportive housing center called Gethsemane Home with a grant of $1.157 million (HOME-ARP).
The Jubilee Wellness Center will provide 75-100 beds for addiction recovery and transitional housing, a medically assisted treatment clinic, fellowship spaces, training rooms, and supportive services. In partnership with the Assisted Recovery Centers of America (ARCA), the center will expand on Jubilee’s track record of providing holistic recovery programs that address not only physical and mental health but also economic stability and community reintegration.
Over the years, Jubilee has developed innovative programs, including addiction recovery homes, job training, and employment opportunities, while managing hundreds of apartments in north St. Louis. The organization’s success stories highlight their ability to create lasting change and empower individuals to rebuild their lives and become community leaders.
The Jubilee Wellness Center is a testament to the power of partnership and community-driven development, offering hope and opportunity to individuals and families facing some of the region’s most pressing challenges.
About the Community Development Administration (CDA): The CDA serves as the City of St. Louis' hub for federal, state, and local funds, implementing the Mayor's economic justice agenda. By funding public and nonprofit entities, the CDA supports a wide range of initiatives, including public services, affordable housing development, blight eradication, and other community development activities. www.stlouis-mo.gov/cda/
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