St. Louis County

County offices are closed today, Monday, February 17, in observance of Presidents' Day.

In honor of Black History Month, we’re spotlighting our incredible Black leaders serving Saint Louis County. Meet Ambur Banner, Director of our Department of Human Services. We asked Ambur why Black History Month is important, what inspired her public service journey, and what achievements she's most proud of. Read through her insights below. Q: Why is Black History Month important to you, and how do you celebrate or reflect on this time of year? A: “Black History Month means more to me than just a time of year to acknowledge and celebrate the importance of the Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) who’ve paved the way for this nation. It’s a time to meditate and reflect on how what I do – every day – continues to contribute and advance equality and social justice. Truly, I pay homage year around, but February becomes a sacred time of year to give special thanks to the sacrifices endured by those who came before me, and whose shoulders I stand upon today, and to remind myself to continue to fight the good fight and carry forward the great work they began, with pride.” Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in public service, and what does your role mean to you? A: “I was inspired by my own personal experience, navigating community systems within my own neighborhood growing up. It was challenging and complex. I decided early that I wanted to be a part of improving how program services serve the most vulnerable of populations because I understood firsthand the impact of their failures. My role as the Director of Human Services for Saint Louis County is a humbling honor and a privilege that I aim to live up to every day.” Q: What achievements in your department are you most proud of, and how do they impact Saint Louis County residents? A: “I’m most proud of my staff – all 84 staff members. We’re lean, but mighty, and work tirelessly because we all believe in social justice and delivering the best services our funding will allow for Saint Louis County. It’s truly a team effort on the inside of our walls – we all work together - across the aisle, upstairs, and downstairs – we’re an organized army for this County and filled with leaders that transform the funding we receive into meaningful person-centered programs for our community. It is only through their unwavering commitment to strategizing together that we’ve continued to sustain need-based solutions through community partnerships that make a difference among our unhoused, older residents, job seekers, veterans, youth, first-time homebuyers, and survivors of domestic violence.” Q: Anything else you’d like to add? A: "I’m truly looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and working harder in 2025 as we embark upon strategic planning and lead a team-driven charge over the next five years."

The County Executive’s Distinguished Service Awards honor the Saint Louis County employees who’ve gone above and beyond to make our community stronger, safer, and more connected. Kudos to the Operations Division from the Department of Transportation and Public Works for their emergency traffic control during early voting and Election Day last year! Their quick action ensured safe and efficient voter access to polling locations across the county. 🙌🏾🗳️

🌟Exciting News!🌟 Saint Louis County has been named one of America’s Best Midsize Employers for 2025 by Forbes! This is a recognition that highlights the County’s commitment to fostering a supportive and innovative workplace for its employees. Read the full release here: https://ow.ly/XSRt50UYU9k

Saint Louis County is a little over a week away from taking back over operations at the animal shelter. And Dr. Kanika Cunningham is excited to announce that next week applications will open for our Volunteer pilot program at the shelter. Our shelter will operate under the principles of Socially Conscious Sheltering, an ethical and transparent approach to animal welfare. This means we will prioritize the best possible outcomes for every animal in our care by ensuring that each pet is treated with dignity, provided with necessary medical and behavioral support, and placed in environments where they can thrive. Socially Conscious Sheltering also emphasizes community engagement, responsible pet ownership, and collaboration with other animal welfare organizations to maximize positive outcomes.

🌟Business Spotlight🌟 Elicious Southern Style Breakfast and Brunch located in Downtown Historic Ferguson has been bringing dishes like salmon croquettes, catfish, and shrimp & grits to North Saint Louis County and beyond since 2022. Owner Johnny Little said when the opportunity came for him to buy the building, he knew this is the place he wanted to go, and he said the community has been nonstop since the start. There's something for everyone on the menu, but some must-try dishes include: 🍽️ Shrimp & Grits 🍽️ Wings & Waffles 🍽️ Salmon Croquettes 🍽️ Southern Fried Catfish Thank you, Elicious Southern Style Breakfast & Brunch, for bringing a taste of the south to North County!🍳

We proudly shine a spotlight on the dedicated individuals and teams who make Saint Louis County a place we’re all proud to call home. From innovative programs and collaborative problem-solving to compassionate service and leadership, these honorees exemplify the very best in public service. The Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Team in the Department of Public Health has expanded access to life-saving opioid treatments in the Justice Center, growing from 23 to 102 patients in just 18 months. Your dedication to harm reduction and recovery is changing lives! 💙

We’re honored to highlight the incredible contributions of our Saint Louis County employees through the County Executive's Distinguished Service Awards. Their work reminds us all of the power of dedication, creativity, and teamwork in building a brighter future for everyone in Saint Louis County. The Justice Services Employee Recognition Committee is transforming workplace culture with events like a family picnic and the department’s first joint commencement ceremony. Thank you for creating a community of appreciation and pride! 👏👏

⭐EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT⭐ Michael Christ, an Engineering Technician III in our Department of Transportation & Public Works, joined the County in 2020. He performs material testing, oversees construction, and ensures contractors follow County contracts. "I really like the people aspect of my job, whether it be working with contractors, communicating with residents or other county employees," said Michael. Michael started in operations/maintenance, where many people also assist with snow removal during storms. Although he moved to construction, he still likes to help with plowing snow and did so in the most recent storm. It was then that Michael’s above-and-beyond dedication to work was on display. He was in the hospital for a few days prior to the latest snowstorm, but wanted to get out and help his colleagues remove the snow and ice that blanketed the region. "When you are in that unfortunate situation all you really wish and hope for is to get healthy and to get back to a sense of normalcy," said Michael. "In my eyes I did nothing more than what is expected of me as an employee for Saint Louis County. I am honored and humbled by the attention this is drawing to something I believe many employees do every day yet may never get the recognition that I am receiving. Snow duty is a very important service that the County provides its residents." Michael said he enjoys snow duty, not just for the overtime, but for the sense of purpose it brings. "I just feel like a big kid playing with a Tonka truck when I’m out there clearing the streets of snow and making life easier for the residents of St Louis County," said Michael. "I really believe that the residents do appreciate the job that the men and woman of Saint Louis County do when it comes to snow duty." Thank you, Michael, for your service to Saint Louis County!

The County Executive’s Distinguished Service Awards highlight the extraordinary achievements of our employees. These honorees remind us that the work we do isn’t just about meeting goals—it’s about building a better future for everyone in our community. This five-person Parks and Recreation team managed 26 tournaments and nearly 3,000 visitors per weeknight at the Creve Coeur Park Soccer Complex, generating $1.8M for the community. Your dedication is truly inspiring! 👏🎉