Committee unanimously backs bill to accept U.S. Department of Labor youth grant for SLATE program in St. Louis

The Health and Human Development Committee of the St. Louis Board of Aldermen voted unanimously to recommend Board Bill 63, an ordinance to accept and appropriate funds awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor for a youth build grant covering program years 2026–2029.

Alderwoman Charmaine Clark Hubbard introduced the bill and invited Connie Johnson, identified in the hearing as an attorney and director of SLATE, and SLATE staff to describe the program and the need for continued federal funding. Johnson said SLATE has held Department of Labor funding since about 2015 and that "almost 200 kids at this point have gone through this program." She told the committee that in the current grant cycle SLATE served about 60 participants, 48 achieved measurable skill gains, and "85 percent have been placed in permanent full‑time employment." The numbers and program goals were presented as the principal justification for accepting the three‑year award.

SLATE presenters described the program as more than construction training. Carlos, identified as SLATE's program manager for the youth program, said the initiative connects participants to the wider workforce system and can transition graduates into adult programs and other career pathways. Program manager Shaquima Hunter said SLATE serves young people ages 17–24 and provides case management, mentorship, life skills, civic engagement, and opportunities to pursue industry credentials such as a commercial driver's license.

Presenters also described partner organizations and supports: classroom and training space at Rankin Tech, in‑kind partnerships with SLDC, and collaborations with SLPS for educational supports such as HiSET preparation. SLATE staff said they operate wraparound services—hygiene kits, clothing for interviews, food assistance and referrals for housing—that they say help participants remain employable. Johnson also raised concerns about some city services being outsourced to external nonprofit providers and said SLATE, as a city agency, delivers a depth of supportive services she fears may be lost when funding is contracted out.

Committee members praised SLATE's work and asked to be added as cosponsors. Members spoke in favor of swiftly moving the bill forward so SLATE could begin outreach and update application materials; several members emphasized outreach to ensure young people and school partners know how to apply once funds are secured.

A motion to advance and then approve Board Bill 63 passed on a unanimous committee vote of 5–0; the clerk recorded aye votes and the committee recommended the bill to the full Board of Aldermen. The committee adjourned after the vote.

The bill, as read into the record, authorizes acceptance of Department of Labor funds for the youth build grant and gives the director of the city agency on training and employment authority to negotiate and execute contracts necessary to expend the funds; it contains an emergency clause. The bill will appear on the full Board of Aldermen agenda for further action.