98 vacant police openings eliminated in latest St. Louis budget
The positions have been vacant for years. The money will be directed to diversion and support programs. Mayor Jones' budget still needs final approval from the board
Author: Dori Olmos, Sara Machi
Published: 12:09 PM CDT April 29, 2021
Updated: 1:49 PM CDT April 29, 2021
ST. LOUIS — A plan to eliminate nearly 100 vacant police officer positions in the city passed during a budget meeting Thursday morning in St. Louis.
Mayor Tishaura Jones’ FY2022 budget had several amendments to the original plan, including eliminating dozens of police openings that have been vacant for years. While there are about 150 vacant police positions, the amendment passed Thursday eliminates 98 of them. This leaves about 50 positions that can still be filled.