Committee approves three Forest Park advisory-board nominees, schedules park-rangers briefing

The Health and Human Development Committee unanimously approved three mayoral nominees to the Forest Park advisory board during its July 9 meeting, advancing the appointments to the council floor while postponing a planned presentation on park rangers.

Chairwoman Sherry Boyd called the meeting to order and confirmed a quorum before introducing the agenda item: appointments to the Forest Park advisory board, a volunteer panel that advises the parks director on capital projects and park stewardship.

Alderwoman Clark Hubbard, who introduced the candidates, said the advisory board is a “representative panel” that relies on volunteers with specialized experience and that resumes for nominees were available in the committee’s shared drive. Director Hayes described the board’s role and meeting cadence, saying the group “attend[s] monthly meetings” and helps guide capital projects. Hayes also noted one recommended candidate, Mr. Rosenberg, was unable to attend because of teaching commitments but should still be considered.

Maria, who identified herself as the event operations manager at the Saint Louis Art Museum, told the committee she works in Forest Park daily and has experience managing large events there. “I work at the Saint Louis Art Museum as the event operations manager,” Maria said, adding that she was born and raised in Saint Louis and would bring operational and facilities-management experience to the advisory board.

Committee members offered brief praise and asked no substantive questions before moving to a vote. The committee moved and seconded a motion to accept Maria’s appointment; the clerk recorded five aye votes and the motion carried.

Vinh Kho, who said, “my name is Vinh Kho,” introduced himself as director of community engagement at 9 PBS and described a lifelong connection to Forest Park and a background in community and economic development. Several members expressed support for his regional experience and civic ties. The committee moved and seconded a motion to accept him; the clerk reported no objections and accepted the nomination unanimously.

Members then moved to accept Mr. Rosenberg as a nonvoting nominee despite his absence; committee members and staff confirmed his resume was in the shared drive and said they would follow up to consider him for appointment.

Chairwoman Boyd said the committee remained interested in learning more about park rangers and planned to invite the recreation department and other relevant staff in a future meeting. Sergeant Daniel Waters, who was scheduled to present on park rangers during the session, did not join the meeting online, and the committee postponed that presentation.

The meeting adjourned after brief closing remarks. The committee’s approvals will be forwarded to the council as part of the regular floor process.