Maplewood council adopts ethics ordinance, approves liquor license and several resolutions

The Maplewood City Council on Tuesday adopted a revised code of ethics and approved a package of routine business items, including a liquor license, a consulting-services authorization and appointments.

Why it matters: The ethics ordinance updates the city's standards for elected officials, boards and commissions. The additional planning contract and appointment move the city closer to finalizing its comprehensive plan and filling advisory roles; records disposal clears material that has met retention schedules.

Ordinance and resolutions approved

- Ethics ordinance (Bill 62-96 → Ordinance 60-90): The council approved the final reading of Bill 62-96, amending Maplewood's Code of Ordinances to update the code of ethics for the mayor, council members and boards and commissions. Roll-call votes recorded "yes" from Council members Garcia, Greenberg (Mayor), Houma, Paige, Wiley and Faulkingham; Maddox was excused. Outcome: approved (6-0).

- Liquor license: Council approved a full liquor license and a Sunday liquor-by-the-drink license for Falcon Atlano LLC doing business as Altos Cantina Mexican Kitchen at 3248 Laclede Station Road. Roll-call votes recorded "yes" from Mayor Greenberg and Council members Houma, Paige, Wiley, Faulkingham and Garcia. Outcome: approved (6-0).

- Resolution 25-44 (PGAV planners LLC additional services): Council approved an additional-services agreement with PGAV planners LLC to complete and adopt the city's comprehensive plan. Staff said the consultant's additional work is expected to cost about $10,000 to $15,000 with a proposed ceiling of $40,000; most of the extra work will be led by staff and the Plan and Zoning Commission. Roll-call votes: all voting members present approved. Outcome: approved (6-0).

- Resolution 25-45 (records disposal): Council authorized disposal of paper records that have met minimum retention periods; discussion noted quantities measured in cubic feet. Roll-call votes: all voting members present approved. Outcome: approved (6-0).

- Resolution 25-46 (appointment): Julius Phillips was appointed to the Special Business District Tax Advisory Commission, term expiring June 30, 2028. Roll-call votes: all voting members present approved. Outcome: approved (6-0).

Closed session vote

The council also voted to hold a closed session pursuant to RSMo 610.021 to discuss real-estate matters; roll-call votes were recorded and the motion passed.

What the council did not decide tonight

Council passed routine motions and approvals above; it did not finalize the tampering-with-motor-vehicles ordinance (Bill 6,297) tonight — that item was moved to a third and final reading at a future meeting. A council member introduced a discussion about opposing expanded immigration-detention activities locally but no formal resolution was adopted during this session.

Next steps: The comprehensive-plan work authorized by Resolution 25-44 will proceed with staff and consultant meetings; Bill 6,297 will return for a final vote at the next council meeting.