State Of The City: Olivette Looks To Rebound After Failed Ballot Propositions

23 votes. 

That's about all that stood in the way of the City of Olivette from gaining voter approval on Proposition "S", a $9 million dollar proposal that would have funded a renovation of an Olivette Executive Parkway Building to serve as a new city hall and police station.

A new firehouse would have been built where city hall stands today.

A majority approved the idea at the polls, but not by enough to make it happen.

Another proposal that would have funded parks improvements didn't get even majority support.

Olivette Mayor Arthur Merdinian told an audience at a recent gathering that he believed even those who were opposed to Prop S understood the need, but just didn't support the approach. 

"We will continue to move towards replacement of all those facilities while we maintain the high level of service that we’ve been providing. Its just going to take a little bit more time to get that done," he said, adding that he hopes that some of those who did understand the need will take a lead in helping craft the next approach.

I-I70 Development Corridor

Olivette continues to work through efforts with University City on a joint economic development project tied to the Interstate 170 corridor. The cities must still come to an agreement about how to handle sales tax revenue and pass zoning ordinances that will create uniform development on both sides.

The Joint Committee working to implement the plan

Other Projects

Merdinian said the city is about to issue the bonds for the Neighborhood Improvement District project which repaired roads and sidewalks in the Dielman Industrial Park and is getting ready for road and sidewalk improvements on Old Bonhomme Road between Olive and Price paid for with a federal grant.

ETC.

 On the lighter side of things, Merdinian said the city is looking forward to Olivette On The Go, scheduled for September 28-30 at Stacy Park, featuring a carnival, entertainment and plenty of food, including a Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook-Off.

What do you think are the important issues facing the city over the next few months into the new year? Tell us in the comments section!