🙌 Hello, wonderful people of West County!

In today’s ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter:

• 📉 STL Population Decline

• 🦋 Two-Faced Roach Discovery

• 🐾 Pet Resort Acquisition

Let’s jump into today’s newsletter!

— Jared Michel

THE DIGEST

📉 STL Loses Residents, Drops in Metro Rankings

The Census Bureau has reported that the St. Louis region lost over 3,200 residents last year, causing it to drop in the rankings of largest U.S. metros. Local housing decisions and struggles with public schools in the city have contributed to the loss of families. Despite the population decline, St. Louis did see some positive economic indicators, like GDP growth and corporate investment projects. 📊💡 Read a full summary in the St. Louis Business Journal here.

However, there’s a positive spin to this story for parts of West County that are continuing to experience growth despite the broader area trend:

Mayor Sean Flower of Eureka shared insights on X (formerly Twitter) on how his city has been growing, with an estimated 16% population increase since the 2020 Census. Mayor Flower attributed Eureka's success to a combination of factors, including reduced business regulations, increased public safety measures, infrastructure investments, diverse housing options, and strategic economic development initiatives like a new baseball complex that attracts visitors and supports local businesses. He emphasized the importance of living within the city's means while maintaining reasonable debt levels and fostering strong relationships with the area’s local schools.

🦋 Two-Faced Roach Found at Chesterfield Butterfly House

A peculiar hissing cockroach named Harvey, found at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House in Chesterfield, has caught the attention of the global scientific community. The insect, split down the middle with two distinct colors, could be a rare chimera or the result of a single-cell mutation. Researchers are excited to unravel the mystery behind this unique discovery, which may have significant implications for insect research. Read the full story here.

🏗️ County Council Talks Road Repair Funds

In a follow up to our blurb from Monday… yesterday the STL County Council met to discuss Councilman Mark Harder's proposal to allocate $20 million from the Rams settlement fund towards much-needed road repairs. The meeting focused on the current state of subdivision and arterial roads, with 9% of subdivision roads and 32% of arterial roads rated in "poor to failed" condition. Council members debated prioritizing funds for subdivision roads, which have no alternative funding sources, or arterial roads, which carry more traffic but can qualify for grants. The Department of Transportation estimates it needs $125 million per year to maintain and improve county roads properly, but current funding sits at only $40-45 million annually. Officials also discussed options to increase road funding, such as changing the allocation of the current 1/2 cent transportation sales tax or adding a new 1/2 cent sales tax dedicated to county roads and bridges. No final decisions were made in this working session.

LOCAL BUSINESS

🐾 Manchester Pet Resort Sold to Private Equity Firm

After more than 60 years of family ownership, Manchester’s beloved Williamsburg Pet Hotel and Suites has been acquired by Pet Resort Hospitality Group, a subsidiary of private equity firm Trivest Partners. The deal, which also included pet resorts in Houston and Philadelphia, reflects the growing interest of investors in the booming pet care industry. While the decision to sell was emotional for the Rowley family, they expressed confidence in the partnership. Read the STL Post Dispatch’s coverage here.

🎷 Satchmo's Bar & Grill in Chesterfield Set to Make a Comeback

Satchmo's Bar & Grill is making a comeback under new ownership and management. Monday night the Chesterfield City Council approved their liquor license request, paving the way for the restaurant's reopening. Patrons can look forward to a revamped menu and a lively atmosphere when Satchmo's announces its official relaunch date. Stay tuned for more details.

🛍️ Joann's Stores To Stay Open Despite Bankruptcy

West County crafters can breathe a sigh of relief – despite Joann filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Monday, the Ballwin store will remain open. The company has a restructuring plan in place that will allow all of their stores to continue operating normally, so you’ll still be able to find all the fabric and crafting supplies you need. Learn more here.

CITY HIGHLIGHTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Today: Tumbling Tots @ the Eureka' Timbers from 10am to 11am (Ages 6 months - 5 years). Learn more / register here.

• Tomorrow: Valley Park’s Coffee with a Cop from 7:30am to 9:30am @ the McDonald’s located at 13600 Big Bend Road, Valley Park, MO. 63088.

• Saturday: Manchester’s PJ 5k & 1 Mile Sleepwalk @ Schroeder Park. Learn more / register here.

THANKS!

Thanks for reading this edition of the ⚡️ West County Pulse newsletter. If you found something useful, please share it with a friend!

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