St. Louis County Council starts new year with two major proposals

CLATYON, Mo. – The St. Louis County Council discussed two major proposals Tuesday night: one that could eventually lead to them ousting County Executive Sam Page, and another that requests the state conduct an investigation into the county’s prosecuting attorney’s office that could lead to a full audit.

A vote was not taken on the former, but the latter passed unanimously.

Residents expressed mixed feelings on the proposal that would give the council the power to fire Page, though most residents who spoke during the public comment period expressed support for the idea. Voters would have to approve the measure.

A spokesman for Page declined to comment, saying they are going to let the process play out before weighing in. Page was re-elected to a four-year term as county executive in 2022.

A spokesperson for St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith said the newly sworn-in chief prosecutor supports an audit of the office.

St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney Melissa Price Smith attended the St. Louis County Council meeting tonight and spoke in support of their resolution for an investigation into our office by the State auditor. She thanked Councilman Harder for the resolution and expressed her full support. She said we need an audit to get some answers regarding the office budget, finances, personnel and other matters so she can be transparent with the council and the public. In fact, she had previously stated that she would ask for such an audit upon taking office. Christopher King, spokesman for St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney's Office

The county council is set to meet again on Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 6:30 p.m.