Webster Groves Green Space Commission approves FY26 budget, outlines watershed signage and outreach plans

The Webster Groves Green Space Commission voted to approve its end-of-year report and a draft budget for fiscal 2026, and spent much of its meeting mapping outreach and volunteer plans for the coming year.

Commission members opened by welcoming a newly appointed commissioner, John, who said he has taught special education for more than 25 years in the Webster area and added, "Glad to be here." The commission then moved through routine business, approving last month’s minutes by voice vote.

The meeting’s substantive work centered on the commission’s written report and its FY26 budget request. The chair reviewed accomplishments listed in the report, including the commission’s contribution to the newly adopted responsible lighting ordinance and 48 logged volunteer hours supporting weeding and maintenance at City Hall garden plots, Larson Park and the business district. Staff liaison David Bookless confirmed the report and budget required minor edits and asked the commission to approve them as amended; members approved the report in a roll-call vote.

On the budget, members reviewed line items and asked staff to round figures for submission. The packet discussed advertising (eco ads) budgeted around $470, a Green Our City outreach line (including $748 for vinyl stickers distributed to participating homeowners) and a combined Trees of Distinction/tree steward allocation (approximately $300). Commissioners also discussed leaving the Leave the Leaves and No Mow programs at no new cost because existing signage and flyers remain available. After discussion and minor revisions, the commission approved the FY26 budget by roll call; staff liaisons did not vote.

Several implementation items were highlighted. Park superintendent and technical adviser Yvonne Steingerby said commission volunteer work "definitely helps," and described existing volunteer groups and the potential impact of a dedicated volunteer coordinator (funded by a future grant) to expand planting and invasive removal efforts. Members agreed to pursue a volunteer coordination approach and to identify commission-led projects for spring plantings.

The commission also debated educational watershed signage for Deer Creek. Members discussed a plan to place rectangular "You are entering the Deer Creek Watershed" signs at major thoroughfares and crossings, with in-house production or outside contracting options. Staff estimated per-sign material costs in the range of $45–$50 (poles and blanks) and discussed an initial set of about 10 signs phased over time.

Outreach and media were a recurring topic. The commission proposed several short educational videos—covering tree stewardship, Trees of Distinction, watersheds and native gardens—and staff identified Jordan Rose (city media/graphics) as the point person to shoot and post content. The commission discussed using in-house resources where possible and coordinating with the police department’s drone team for additional footage.

Planning items included finalizing two Trees of Distinction candidates (measurements delayed by weather), an Arbor Day effort that would include a potential youth art contest with the arts commission, and the Tree City USA luncheon on April 8. Commissioners agreed to firm up attendees for the luncheon and to finalize Tree of Distinction winners at the next meeting if possible.

The commission also discussed having a commissioner provide periodic treasurer reports to the group (staff retains formal financial responsibility). Members set the September meeting for Sept. 14 and closed the meeting after moving to adjourn. The commission’s next regular meeting was scheduled for March 2.

Meeting documents and the updated report and budget will be forwarded to the city for the usual review and incorporation into the municipal process.