Reform St. Louis

Proposition R would shift ward redistricting in St. Louis from politicians to civilians. It also strengthens the Board of Aldermen’s conflict of interest policy. But opponents are concerned the proposition will create further confusion about redistricting — not clear it up.

The proposed charter amendment aims to change the way St. Louis wards are drawn and bring more transparency over conflicts of interest on the Board of Aldermen. If the petition drive is successful, residents would vote on it in a November special election.

The year 2021 is shaping up to be a pivotal one in St. Louis politics — with both a new mayor being chosen and a new system of approval voting being pioneered. But the big shifts won’t stop with this spring’s elections: The city is also set to reduce its number of wards from 28 to 14, ultimately shrinking the size of the Board of Aldermen by half.