#Transforming911 Voter Guide
Forward Through Ferguson (FTF) invited all 2023 candidates running for St. Louis City Board of Aldermen (except for Board of Alderman President) to take FTF’s 2023 #Transforming911 Candidate Survey. All candidates’ un-edited responses are being shared to educate voters in an unbiased manner about candidates’ perspectives on St. Louis’ 911 system in advance of the April 4, 2023 General Municipal Election.
Important Dates:
04/03/23: Last day to vote absentee in person (both types).
04/04/23: Election day. All mail-in ballots must be received by 7 PM. All in-person voters must be in line to vote by 7 PM.
Review the responses below for St. Louis City candidate perspectives on St. Louis’ 911 system and how they would work to address resident’s concerns if elected. Please visit bit.ly/STL-Muni-General-2023 to find your polling place and sample ballot.
Note: Candidates marked with an asterisk (*) submitted their responses after the Monday 3/20 at midnight CT deadline.
Ward 1
Tony Kirchner: Did not respond
Anne Schweitzer
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
The people who work there. They deserve more training, better pay, and updated technology and equipment.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
911 has to be reliable and consistent. It’s imperative to have enough well-trained people to answer each call and to have the right solution delivered to each problem. Not every situation requires an armed first responder. After staffing and training, the system needs to improve its technology, expanding to include video, new data bases, and text-to-911.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
It was interesting to learn how many calls in St. Louis County were non-criminal service calls. I would like to see that information for St. Louis City.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
That the stories we have about calling 911 are as diverse as the people telling those stories.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
As an alderperson, I’ve supported more funding for our public safety answering point, the creation of the Office of Violence Prevention, and resources to address mental health and opioid addictions. I believe we need a well-rounded, resource rich response to public safety.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I support consolidating our 911 call centers, more funding and training for dispatchers, data collection and public audits, and resources that address emergencies that do not require an armed response.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
I would not support outsourcing/contracting out 911 dispatch at this time.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The ability to staff programming is one of the biggest barriers to the city right now. There are absolutely situations in which non-police first responder could respond, but knowing who to send where, incorporating the training needed to do that, and changing the culture of a police-first response may take some time. This requires community education.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
The city is prioritizing addressing addiction, violence prevention, and non-police resources like Cure Violence. The more successes these programs have, the more likely they are to see continued funding.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Thank you for caring about this issue.
Ward 2
Phillip (Phill) Menedez: Did not respond
Tom Oldenburg: Did not respond
Ward 3
Shane Cohn*
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
The concept that people can quickly connect with emergency services, but routinely those calling are placed on hold, transferred, or not provided services as-expected.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Consolidation, collaboration, and coordination to provide consistent and reliable services to our residents. We need to take a more regional approach to our public safety overall. We also need to be able to hire, train, and staff 911 adequately while ensuring the end-user gets the services they’re calling for — ambulatory/EMS, fire, police, or mental health services.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
The fragmentation of call centers throughout St. Louis. I was aware of the city/county divide (and the MO/IL divide, as some city residents also have 911 calls transferred to IL call center), but didn’t realize even STL County 911 was so fragmented. We’re a broken region, paying for unreliable and inconsistent — yet duplicative — services, until we can start building one STL.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
There are plenty of opportunities to reimagine our 911 platform and response.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
As an elected, I have supported reimagining and recalibrating our public safety department and approach. I’ve supported the creation of the Office of Violence Prevention, CURE Violence, and other programs and policies designed to provide a comprehensive approach to public safety and answering the needs of constituents who would call 911. I recently also voted with the city’s capital committee on upgrades to IT infrastructure to improve our 911 capability.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I’m supportive of the Mayor’s plan to consolidate the city’s 911 centers, and would be supportive of future efforts to consolidate and collaborate as a region on our approach to addressing these concerns/needs.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
The Full Report isn’t scheduled to be released until April 2023 (after this questionnaire is due), but at this time, I agree that we can do better working the collaborate across the fragmentation, upgrade our technology, and review how/what/why/who we’re dispatching to various calls.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
I’m fully supportive of having the right response for each emergency, and for each service call into 911. The benefits could mean better health outcomes for residents, and less stress on various public safety departments dealing with issues that should be handled by a non-police/emergency first responder. Challenges would include training dispatchers to ensure we’re adequately responding to ensure the service expected of constituents calling.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
The city’s budget has a number of constraints already. However, even with those constraints and challenges, we have the largest municipal budget in the state. We’ve already been prioritizing funding for mental health, violence interruption and prevention programs. We’ve also taken large steps toward closing the workhouse, and reimagining public safety with the establishment of the Office of Violent Prevention. As we continue to see success with these initiatives and programs, the more we’re able to expand and allocate resources toward them.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Thank you for continuing to engage and educate our community on these important issues.
Ward 4
Joseph Vaccaro Jr.: Did not respond
Bret Narayan: Did not respond
Ward 5
Joe Vollmer: Did not respond
Helen Petty
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate the hard working dispatchers who are underpaid, understaffed, and doing a very hard job.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
We need to hire more dispatchers and improve their pay, centralize our systems to cut down on response time, and provide an appropriate response person depending on call type as opposed to just sending an armed officer to every call.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
My biggest take away from transforming 911 findings is that we have overworked and underpaid dispatchers, a highly fractured and antiquated 911 system, and that armed officers are not trained or are not appropriate to handle the majority of calls received.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
My biggest take away from the 911 storied is that the public has lost faith in the 911 synth either because they do not get a timely response or because they are fearful of calling for help and ending up as victims of violence at the hands of the armed officers who are responding. St. Louisans need and deserve better.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I am a firm believer that we need to put our money where our mouth is and support the services the people of St. Louis need by budgeting for them. The number one way to transform our system is to fund those changes.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I would prioritize the formation and funding of an alternative/civilian first responder program. I would also prioritize increasing dispatcher pay.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
No
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefit is clear. Having appropriate first responders means folks will actually receive the help they need without fear of violence. A challenge may be appropriately identifying and routing these calls.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
We have received an unprecedented amount of funding from the Ram’s settlement and ARPA funds. This money has been allocated and is already there to help support the transformation of our 911 system.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
We have the power to make meaningful change for the people of St. Louis. Starting with the basics like public safety an reimagining systems like 911 are an imperative part of making sure our residents and city are thriving.
Ward 6
Daniela Velazquez
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate the hard work and dedication to our community’s safety.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
We need to improve response times. We also need residents to have more confidence in our 911 system, which means having a system that responds quickly and provides the support to help people in times of crisis.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
We have a need for a system that responds to the critical, non-emergency needs of our community, as well as a system that helps residents in emergency and times of crisis and ensures their safety.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
We need to collaborate differently and strategically to meet the needs of our residents in the region.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
We need to work on reducing 911 response times, making sure the city’s merged dispatched system is adequately staffed. We also need to develop a sustainable, non-emergency alternative number and response system for city residents.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
To deeply understand the needs of the city’s 911 system, I would need to see the data and FTF recommendations for the city which is currently unavailable. Then, I would work with FTF to support the recommendations that would make people in the city safer.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
I would determine prioritization based on the data and recommendations for the city, which are not currently available.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The details are important when addressing a complex issue such as an alternative 911 program. I will respond more specifically once the data and recommendations are released.
Broadly, the benefits include providing services that better fit the immediate needs of residents and reducing strain on 911 dispatchers. Challenges include public awareness and training on using a new system.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
We should look and see what kinds of non-emergency calls we have and look to make sure our resources meet the needs of the people.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
I would love to revisit these questions again when we have the data from the city and an updated set of recommendations from FTF to fit the city’s needs.
Jennifer Florida
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
The goal of 911 is to deliver an urgent response to an emergency/ potential life threat
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Our system is antiquated, understaffed and does not have the capacity to respond to the needs of our community
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
There are those who have reimagined 911 to be communinity oriented.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
There are those who do not trust the system, It is sometimes one size does not fit all.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I would work to secure funds to modernize and consolidate Cad, invest in Next Generation 911 tech, standardize and consolidate training, classifying dispatcers as 1st responders.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I would prioritize improved technology and training.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
no
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefit would be to divert issues that are non police, a metal health crisis, medical crisi, animal control, etc
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
We have a surplus of funds. I would support this initiative
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Thank you!
Ward 7
Jon Pierre (JP ) Mitchom*
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
In spite of the fact that we have quite a bit of fragmentation in our region with regard to number of municipalities, I appreciate the attempt at decentralized logistical design of Public Safety Access Points to provide timely, targeted and appropriate responses to citizens’ emergency and crisis calls. We may still have too many and my need some consolidation however from an infrastructure standpoint, strategic decentralization of some sort may still be prudent.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Definitely, our call centers should be staffed to capacity. In addition, investment should be made for more robust call taker training to ask the right questions as well as clarifying questions in order to facilitate the most appropriate response. Call centers should also be staffed with professionals who have mental health expertise to help assess mental crisis situations which are sometimes more difficult to objectively evaluate than medical or imminently violent emergencies.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
The hopeful continued evolution of the 911 system’s purpose…from one of occupy and control to that of true care and concern for all citizens in our region.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
We have a history of harm and deep wounds in our region that need healing. We have much work to be done to rebuild trust, systems and relationships.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
Work to consolidate PSAP where appropriate and advocate to repurpose this work as a public safety service that can be implemented collaboratively throughout the St. Louis region.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I would prioritize invest In Next Generation 911. Often the evaluative decisions a call taker makes can be the difference between life and death. Therefore, initiatives like Next Gen 911 allows for access to the most information and data available to make adequately informed decisions about appropriate responses.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
Not at this time.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefit would be the opportunity to gather and evaluate data on the effectiveness of the pilot initiative and hopefully learn more about St. Louis’ public safety trends in the process. Oftentimes when initiatives are piloted it takes time for the desired outcome to be achieved. Therefore managing expectations and engaging the public with the process may be a challenge.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
Based on preliminary data, alternative response initiatives actually save financial costs for the city…such savings could be redirected in part to build greater capacity and sustainability for complementary programs to conventional public safety departments.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Being appropriately responsive to the emergency and crisis needs of our community should be a top priority for us all. For too long we’ve taken a reactive “hammer” approach, where everything looks like a nail…or a “swiss army” approach, expecting officers to be all things to all people. It’s time for us to be smarter about how we serve citizens experiencing crisis and emergencies. When we know better, we do better.
Alisha Sonnier
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate the intention and the general concept of our 911 system and the lives this service has saved, but I recognize the ways where those good intentions fall short. The idea that a community member facing a crisis should be able to make a call and get support, regardless of their income status or any other factor mattering with resources pulled together by all of us, is a vital concept that I support.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
It would be easier to name what shouldn’t be improved in our 911 system. I have had times and experiences where I have needed to call 911 to request emergency assistance, but first responders never arrived. However I am thankful that I am lucky enough to be able to also call on community and family for help. Our 911 system should center on serving the people of St. Louis first, which includes better paid staff, an improved system that dispatches the right responder to the scene of an emergency, better response times, and transparency all the way through.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
As someone whose activism was birthed following the murder of Michael Brown, Transforming 911’s findings confirmed what I knew to be true — people of color and lower economic classes are often scared to call 911. Our public safety system is in desperate need of a wider range of professionals who will respond to the vast, nuanced needs of our community, and it is beyond time that our city take this holistic approach to public safety in a way that addresses the root causes of crime. The time could not be better to reimagine what public safety looks like when it works for all of us.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
My biggest takeaway is that our public safety system’s demand for a wider variety of professionals to respond to the vast and nuanced needs of our community, and it is beyond time that our city take a holistic approach to public safety that addresses the root causes of crime and reimagine what public safety looks like.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
As an Alderwoman, I will support programs that increase wages and training opportunities for dispatchers, as well as funding programs like Cops & Clinicians, to provide community-rooted emergency assistance. I will also support increased funding for violence prevention programs like Cure Violence, and I would support an initiative that adds Cure Violence offices (and other similar organizations) to more neighborhoods.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
If elected I will prioritize advocating for updating 911 technology, increasing dispatcher staffing, and increasing the amount of social workers and other mental health and de-escalation professionals on staff as 911 first responders so that our community is able to get help that can fulfill the nuance of our needs.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
None.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefits of adopting a non-police first responder system are limitless, but most importantly, this system would ensure that no more civilians will be gunned down by overzealous police who misperceive them as threats. The challenges will primarily lie in getting our police, as well as their supporters and local media, to embrace this level of change. I don’t doubt that the community will welcome a new 911 system that improves response time & ensures that the right professional shows up for the job, but we can’t ignore the special interests that stand to lose power, money, and influence with a better emergency response system.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
I think St. Louis is already on a positive path forward by shifting our funding priorities to more holistic public safety resources. However, there’s still much more work to be done. As Alderwoman, I would support legislation that would move more funding into programs that increase the roles of first responders with vast skill sets and encourage fully trained professionals who are empowered with de-escalation skills and who are deeply engaged with their community to respond to crisis situations.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Transforming 911, reimagining public safety, and taking a more holistic approach to public safety is the only way that we avoid history repeating itself and create safe and equitable communities for all of us.
Ward 8
Kenneth (Ken) Ortmann: Did not respond.
Cara Spencer
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate that we have an emergency response system. I appreciate the over worked and underpaid staff who work around the clock to answer the calls of people in distress. I appreciate when the system works — which unfortunately isn’t nearly as often as it should be.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Literally everything about the system can and should be improved. There should be more than one number to call — first responder response and not. We should be able to pick up all calls rather than sending half of them to a recording because of overflow. And we should be able to send the right (often not armed) person to respond to the situation.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
Our system is very very broken.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
We need both alternatives to 911 and to fix 911. 911 alone is not a solution. Many many members of our community do not view 911 as an ally or even a system that can be trusted. Our current 911 system is not overcoming the lived experiences that have broken down trust in that system. 911 is the entry point to the public safety system, and transforming public safety needs to include and start with 911.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I am committed to making the 911 system work better and transforming this entry point into the public safety system one that better serves our community.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
The FTF list of recommendations is an excellent starting point for priorities in fixing and transforming our 911 system. I would start with the technical pieces such as call center consolidation, investing in the technology needed and standardization because those are relatively quick tactile ways of starting this work. Alongside of this work, investing in the humans behind our 911 system through adequate training and professionalization, while a longer term transformation should be started right away.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
No.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
Challenges are cost, building infrastructure and changing the mindsets required to make such a shift effective. Benefits are infinite.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
a pilot program could be funded from our Rams settlement funds.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
I’m really grateful for this work.
Ward 9
Tina “Sweet-T” Pihl
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate the difficult nature of the job our 911 dispatchers do 24/7/365 for our residents. I was surprised to find out through the “FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations page” that our dispatchers are classified as “administrative workers.” They are hardworking and dedicated, first responders, who answer the calls day after day, in spite of the distressing circumstances in the calls they answer. We should change their job classification because they are first responders too.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
First, we must explore how our 911 dispatchers are categorized as employees. I believe they need to be “First Responders,” and eligible for advanced training and support like our sworn officers and firefighters. After that, we need to ensure that our first call receivers are working with the best equipment and training. And, everything needs to be integrated, modernized and consolidated to cut down on response time and response type.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
My biggest takeaway is that the 911 System was created from a racialized agenda in 1967 to control the civil rights protests. It was designed to work for some residents, at the expense of others. In order to have a system that promotes and values equity, it’s necessary to start with a system designed with equity as its goal, method, and outcome. We must start from scratch to make this system equitable.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
The biggest takeaway from these stories is that the 911 system is not meeting the citizens’ needs. A good public safety response is not a one size fits all. We need different types of first responders to respond to the many different types of public safety situations that arise.
It’s imperative we include everyone in the design of what we want our new public safety system to be so that all voices are heard and so we create a system that works for everyone.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I would collaborate with the entities, individuals and my colleagues seeking to transform the St. Louis 911 system. I would start looking closer at the recommendations in the #Transforming911 report to see how to implement them. After or alongside digging deeper in these recommendations, I would like to look at other recommendations that are proposed to transform the 911 system.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I would prioritize Non-Policing Community Enforcement. Non-policing response to calls that don’t call for an armed response. And look at a complete rethink of what it means to keep people safe.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
I can’t think of any of these recommendations that I would not stand behind. These recommendations are all strong and common sense.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefits are too many to quantify. The costs might be high, in the short term, but in the long term, the costs will be significantly less than continuing with an arrest and incarcerate, police-first response to crime. When we focus on equity as an outcome and a practice to reach it, we will have a system built for the safety of all people.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
The city’s funding won’t need to be changed very much. By eliminating the need to pay our wrongful death lawsuits, that budget allocation can be put toward non-policing responses to calls for service.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
We need to examine what works and what doesn’t for our emergency response systems. Best practices are a great start to see what programs have worked elsewhere, and we then can adapt programs to work here in St. Louis.
Michael Browning
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Even as we recognize that 911 is a broken system we must not lose sight of our appreciation for the workers. They often deal with people going through some of the most stressful times and are there to help them navigate a complicated system.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
It’s difficult to discuss what can be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system without discussing what could be improved about our approach to public safety. The 911 system has evolved over time to be the access point for any and all sorts of distress and yet, when the only response is armed, it serves to isolate those in the community who have been victimized by the very services that should be there to assist.
In 2022, St. Louis City reported 13,130 traffic collisions to the Statewide Traffic Accident Records System. 74% of those collisions only resulted in property damage. When the city has 39 crashes a day and state regulation mandates that officers cannot leave a call until it’s finished, it’s little wonder that we start to see a selectivity of service.
911 should be a triaging service that connects the right response to the right call. St. Louis needs unarmed city personnel that are trained and able to respond to non-dangerous situations, from mental health situations to taking collision reports when there is a traffic incident. I really appreciated what was said in the video “Transforming 911: Part II, Time is Life.” The first responder is the first person to the scene, not a police officer, firefighter, or EMS. It is proof that we don’t always need an armed police officer to respond to every situation, and that we already have civilian responses to many situations already. The next step is to provide the training and resources to city personnel so that we aren’t introducing the wrong response to a situation.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
I was familiar with many of the top findings but not with the origin of the 911 system as an explicit attempt to control Black and brown people — though I am not surprised — and it sheds light on how 911 is used today. Experiences shared with me by residents of the 9th Ward, including current dispatchers and EMTs, align with what I read. We cannot claim to be adequately serving the residents of this city until we dismantle the systemic racism within 911. When a person is in crisis, they should be assured that the help they call for will not escalate the situation or create harm.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
There is a lack of faith in the city’s ability to keep people safe. Our communities are not being cared for here in St. Louis. When you’re in danger, when you’re having the worst moment of your life…there is a likely chance you won’t get help. Alternately, if you have a health crisis or a child has a tantrum in school, likely, there will be an inappropriate, armed response that can scar or end a life. St. Louisans — especially Black and brown St. Louisans — are not safe in this system. When we need help in St. Louis, we deserve genuine help.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
In 2022, the Center for Policing Equity presented a report called Reimagining Public Safety in St. Louis. One of the central pieces was highlighting the need for Civilian Response Units.
We already know that these initiatives work, not just in other cities, but here in St. Louis. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department currently partners with the non-profit, Behavioral Health Response, to divert mental-health related 911 calls. A 2021 study found that four out of five calls sent through the program were resolved over the phone. For those calls that needed on-site assistance, a social worker was dispatched along with a police officer. We can explore evolving the program to function more like the CAHOOTS program in Eugene, OR, which does not include an armed response.
Even before this race, I’ve supported having an unarmed city personnel division to respond to non-violent issues: Taking a fender bender report, addressing a car parked in a crosswalk. We can reduce interactions between police and civilians that could otherwise escalate and result in harm, and we can make sure that constituent needs are met. We can ensure that every call for help is answered by the right person. I would also like to implement more policies from the Center for Policing Equity.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
Civilian Response Units are the first step. I also strongly support workers’ rights and think classifying dispatchers as first responders (and increasing pay) needs to be a top priority — When you take care of your people they can do a better job of caring for others too. The next step is further consolidating the 911 centers and standardizing the code taxonomies. But these few I’ve highlighted are just the start, and I’m looking forward to reviewing the full report when it is released in April.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
I genuinely support all of the recommendations. My only concern is the time it will take to build support for these changes. I want to prioritize the recommendations that will have the greatest impact. I would like to then prioritize the other recommendations in the next, full four-year term, along with additional recommendations from the CPE Report.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
Mischaracterization of the program could make obtaining funding more challenging, creating opposition and resistance. We have seen local media mischaracterize non-police first responder alternatives this year on my campaign. Yet there are many benefits: decreased potentially-dangerous interaction between officers and civilians, especially for Black and brown St. Louisans; increased responsiveness; and faster response times.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
We spend 29% of our city budget on public safety, and this is a matter of public safety. I’m willing to explore how we can use public safety funds on this public safety program. We cannot ignore the cost to the city when we respond inappropriately to a situation, cause harm to our people, or end up settling a lawsuit. If implemented successfully, I have no doubt that civilian response units would be a cost saving measure for the city and for our residents.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Aside from the changes we can make to 911 and unarmed civilian response units, we can do a much better job of preventing crime. We can decriminalize homelessness so that we can provide the appropriate aid. We can pass tenant’s rights and provide an office that enforces those rights, so that people’s lives are not upended by illegal eviction, retaliation, or substandard living conditions. We can make sure that our education system is well funded and managed, giving kids the opportunities they need to grow, and provide after-school programs so that kids have something to do and some place to be when they aren’t in school. All of these measures help by preventing crime in the first place, reducing the need to ever call 911. This is about meeting people’s needs, providing help, and avoiding harm by all means necessary.
Ward 10
Emmett Coleman*
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Not much currently.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
We need more dispatchers that are paid competitive salaries. Currently, we are more than likely put on hold when calling 911 and that has to end ASAP.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
Our fragmentation is impacting our region more than just economically.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
I have, both, heard stories and witnessed first hand some of the broken public safety issues within the Saint Louis region having grown up in Saint Louis. I am very familiar with the need to continue to improve public safety and 911 response within our city.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I will strive to ensure that all of our 911 dispatchers and first responders receive competitive pay, proper training, and the necessary equipment to excel in their duties. I will also strive to ensure that the proper mental health specialists respond with police to calls which involve mental health crises.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I will initially prioritize improving our 911 dispatch issues through the use of technology and proper staffing.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
No
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
I do believe in a non-police response to mental health related calls, but I do believe that it is essential for mental health specialist to be accompanied by police and other first responders for their own safety.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
We just need to allocate funding towards the program, but it needs to be introduced unilaterally with police response for safety reasons.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
I do not have any additional comments.
Shameem Clark Hubbard
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
St.Louis’s current 911 system clearly has some issues and challenges that need to be addressed now more than ever. The times I have personally called 911 for emergencies prior to running for office and as Alderperson where all routed and responded to so while I personally appreciate that I have received complaints and concerns from my constituents as well so I have worked collectively with them to address them as much as I can for example directing them to 211 if there are possibilities to meet needs with alternative services and resources.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I feel some immediate improvements to our current 911 system would be staffing, salary, and equipment/technology upgrades. As it relates to staffing I would also add training such as anti-bias and implicit bias training so that they can objectively filter, route, and respond to calls in the best interests of our city residents.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
One of the things that stood out was the fact that 53 police departments dispatch through a network of only 15 public safety access points that coordinate 911 services. That clearly explains a lot of things including some of the complaints I have received from constituents in the 26Th Ward being routed to surrounding counties and having to be re-directed back to the City. Also noted the lack of funding to meet behavioral health needs which is yet another reason I am proud of the roll I played in the passage of BB 116 CSAA which appropriated funds to St.Louis City Departments and FQHCs to meet those needs directly where they are.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
I have so many takeaways, I am always eager to actively listen to constituents personal experiences to work towards solutions, they are the best data we can use. The sister that spoke about needing EMS and receiving police response first was especially concerning to me knowing the current challenges with hiring and retaining EMS workers but I believe we can find ways to fill this gap as well as others.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
When I am re-elected to serve as Alderwoman I will continue to advocate in my position at the Board Of Aldermen for re-imagining BEST PRACTICES, as well as funding, for the proposed Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) and alternative ways that our beloved city can respond to our constituents public safety and public health needs.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
Consolation, funding, cross training, and creation of spaces for transformation conversations. I truly feel these as well as the other recommendations will be the answer to so many of the current challenges and complaints we receive about our 911 systems.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
No.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
My record shows my commitment to funding alternative public safety responses. It’s not an either/or ideal for me. It’s how can we work collectively to sustainably meet the needs of our constituents in their most vulnerable times.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
Funding priorities are discussed yearly during budget season, I have served on the BOA Ways and Means committee so I have learned and experienced this process first hand and would absolutely be open to advocating for a pilot program.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
I would like to thank Forward Through Ferguson and #Transforming911 for this opportunity to share my commitment and record of service to our community to work collectively with our City departments, community stakeholders, and constituents, towards a public safety response WE can believe in.
Ward 11
Carla “Coffee” Wright
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate that is three digit emergency system.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
St. Louis’ 911 system could be improved by hiring and properly training more workers for quicker response time.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
The 911 needs non-police responders to handle mental health crisis calls and service calls that do not require police.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
Many seem to be a nightmare with the delayed response and when there is response we are still not having an opportunity to consult with people that are equipped to handle mental health situations.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I would assist in crafting legislation that would provide a speedier and appropriate results for the caller.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
Hiring dispatchers as well as others that can identify the appropriate help to respond to the calls.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
No.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
I think that would be awesome. It would free up the police to deal with crimes and more importantly it would the individual in crisis to get the help they need which could avoid a situation from escalating to possibly a murder or arrest.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
In the budget process push for a percentage of the tax monies to be allotted to that. The process should reflect what are the priorities of the constituents who should be publicly consulted in hearings, town halls and other types of community input.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
No.
Laura Keys: Did not respond
Ward 12
Tashara Earl
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
I appreciate how our 911 system works to enhance its system to serve our community better. In the meantime, I appreciate the dispatchers taking copious notes and working to understand the problem to best direct service to help the citizen. Although our 911 system is not perfect, I appreciate how the system calls the citizen back in case of a dropped call to ensure that he or she has been helped.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Our 911 system could utilize AI technology to help advance high-risk calls for faster response. Rather than have the citizen wait for a dispatcher to pick up, the person can report what is going on, and the AI system can help to identify high-risk calls to push to a dispatcher/department for faster service. As the St. Louis Reimagining Public Safety Plan recommends, I would like to see funding allocated to support unarmed, alternative responders and mental health professionals to serve non-violent calls.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
The biggest takeaway is the data highlighting how violent crime has decreased since the 90s and how violent crimes were the lowest reported compared to service calls. Although the number of violent crimes is low, it is mind-blowing how we still have too many fatal arrest incidents due to excessive police use of force.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
People recognize the pain we have with our 911 system and are hopeful we can find better solutions than just calling the cops first. Citizens of St. Louis recognize we need a newly built system that will address mental health concerns and be able to service people to get them to a safer location.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
I will work with our public safety department, community organizations, and citizens to continue reimagining what public safety should become in our city. I will continuously engage with my constituents to listen and learn of better ways to transform our 911 system. I’ve previously worked on the city of St. Louis’s Reimagining Public Safety plan as a consultant to engage with the community, discuss the findings, and discuss how the plan should be implemented. It is crucial to continuously engage with the citizen to always learn about the issues that arise in order to come up with transformative solutions. Last, I am committed to identifying other cities’ efforts with excellent results in transforming and implementing a new 911 system so we can learn from them to create our own.
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
First, I would support enhancing our 911 system and advocate for the city to invest in a next-generation 911 system. We are in a digital age. Pictures and videos can truly help save someone’s life and help solve a problem more efficiently. Second, I would advocate to classify dispatchers as first responders. In most situations, dispatchers are the first to receive emergency calls and have to determine how to route the call to the proper department for services.Third, I will advocate to establish non-police civilian first responder alternatives because not every call requires police presence and can benefit from a trained professional to service the call best suited for the situation.
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
Not at this time.
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
The benefit is that we will have more trained professionals to address service calls immediately, which in turn allows the police to handle more violent 911 calls. In addition, many of our citizens would feel safer and less afraid without police presence for non-violent calls. The challenges are we need to reallocate funding from the police department for unfilled positions to create these non-police first responder roles. Last, many people who feel that the police should be involved in every 911 call will not support this effort and will try to create barriers.
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
Funds for unfilled public safety positions in the city must be reallocated to create these non-police first responder roles. The City should identify a surplus of funding in the public safety department’s budget and assess how the fund can be re-positioned for better use.
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
I am always open to learning about ways to enhance our systems. Through innovation we find better solutions to the challenges we face in our society.
Sharon Tyus: Did not respond
Ward 13
Pamela (Pam) Boyd
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
N/a
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
Staffing training and educating
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
Collaboration
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
Information
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
Really would like to be at table with all agencies and start looking at issues
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
I really would like to read and understand the project
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
Need more information
What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
Really need more information
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
I really need to read and understand process and Vison
Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
Read more
Norma Walker: Did not respond
Ward 14
Rasheen Aldridge: Did not respond
Ebony Washington
What do you appreciate about St. Louis’ 911 system?
St. Louis 911 system is designed to provide fast and efficient emergency response services to the residents of St. Louis. The St. Louis 911 system also has a multi-language interpretation service available, which can provide assistance to non-English speaking callers. This service can be especially important in situations where language barriers could prevent effective communication between the caller and the dispatcher. St. Louis 911 system allows the system to automatically identify the location of a caller and provide that information to the dispatcher. This feature can be critical in emergency situations where the caller may not be able to provide their location.
What do you think could be improved about St. Louis’ 911 system?
One area that could potentially be improved is the response time for emergency calls. While the St. Louis 911 system is designed to respond quickly to emergency calls, response times can vary depending on the nature and severity of the situation, as well as other factors such as call volume and resource availability. Continual monitoring and analysis of response times could help identify areas where improvements can be made, such as increasing staffing levels, wages, & optimizing resource allocation.
What is your biggest takeaway from the #Transforming911 top findings?
Transforming911 highlights the importance of improving data collection and analysis to better understand the needs of the public and to identify areas for improvement in the 911 system.
What is your biggest takeaway from St. Louisans’ 911 stories?
St. Louisans’911 stories were heart felt, understanding a diverse group of people experience with calling 911, helps to understand what our city needs to improve public safety.
If elected, how would you work to transform St. Louis’ 911 system?
Respondent skipped this question
If elected, which of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you prioritize and why?
Respondent skipped this question
If elected, are there any of FTF’s #Transforming911 recommendations would you not prioritize and why?
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What do you think are the benefits and challenges of funding a non-police first responder alternative pilot program? (The pilot would be integrated into 911 and respond independently from police to some calls for service.)
Respondent skipped this question
How might your city’s funding priorities be readjusted to resource a non-police first responder alternative pilot program?
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Is there anything else you’d like to add about your perspective on #Transforming911?
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