Bell joins House Foreign Affairs Committee
News briefs: Aldermen advance major St. Louis water-rate increase St. Louis aldermen have given initial approval to a plan that would raise city water rates by more than 80% over the next six years to help pay for infrastructure upgrades and improve the financial stability of the city’s water system. The proposal includes two 18% […] The post Bell joins House Foreign Affairs Committee appeared first on St. Louis American.
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News briefs:
Aldermen advance major St. Louis water-rate increase
St. Louis aldermen have given initial approval to a plan that would raise city water rates by more than 80% over the next six years to help pay for infrastructure upgrades and improve the financial stability of the city’s water system.
The proposal includes two 18% increases in 2026 and 2027, followed by smaller annual increases through 2032.
City officials say the additional revenue is needed to maintain and modernize an aging system. Under the proposal, the average residential bill would increase by about $7 to $9 per month in 2026 and by a similar amount in 2027.
The measure still requires final approval.
Judge upholds police funding requirement
A judge has ruled that Missouri’s requirement that St. Louis devote a minimum level of funding to its police department does not violate the state constitution.
The decision rejects a challenge to the law approved by state lawmakers in 2022. Supporters argued the funding mandate helps ensure public safety, while opponents contended it infringes on local control.
The ruling allows the funding requirement to remain in effect unless overturned on appeal.
Bell joins House Foreign Affairs Committee
U.S. Rep. Wesley Bell has been appointed to the House Foreign Affairs Committee, adding responsibility for issues including foreign aid, arms control and international relations.
Bell, a Democrat from St. Louis, said he hopes to counter foreign policies he believes have weakened the nation’s global standing.
Bell will retain his seats on the House Oversight and Armed Services committees
Sen. Sanders backs Bush comeback bid
U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders has endorsed Cori Bush in her bid to return to Congress representing Missouri’s 1st District.
Bush, who lost the 2024 Democratic primary to now-U.S. Rep. Wesley Bell, is seeking a rematch in 2026 as Bell runs for re-election. Bush said Sanders’ support reflects their shared progressive priorities on economic issues, health care and housing.
Sanders previously endorsed Bush during her successful 2020 campaign that unseated longtime incumbent William Lacy Clay.
SIUE to host crime scene, courtroom workshop
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville will host its free Crime Scene to Court program June 22-26 at the Southwest Illinois Center for Justice and Workforce Development in Belleville.
The program is open to students entering grades 10-12 and will introduce participants to crime scene investigation, forensic evidence analysis and courtroom procedures. Students will process a mock crime scene, conduct laboratory analyses and take part in a mock trial as witnesses and attorneys. Lunch will be provided.
For information, contact De’Angelo Williams at deangwi@siue.edu or 618-660-9838.
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