Historical September–October 2002 article. Dates, prices, services and contacts describe the source period; current availability has not been established.
On June 20, Mayor Slay and some of his staff members came to the Halo Bar to talk about city initiatives regarding neighborhood commerce. Members of the Delmar Business Owners Association were joined by members of the Skinker DeBaliviere Community Council, Delmar Commercial Committee, Aldermen Lyda Krewson and Irving Clay and other neighborhood residents to listen to the mayor. Mayor Slay spoke for about 15 minutes.
He emphasized that he wanted city administrators to be responsive to those owning businesses in the city or those who might wish to do so.
He spoke very positively of the extension of the Loop into the city section of Delmar and of the work of Joe Edwards in revitalizing this section of Delmar.
He also noted that 622-3600 is the number to call now about chronic nuisance property.
This new hotline should assist residents in gaining assistance to deal with those who do not take care of their property or are otherwise derelict. Slay answered a number of questions from the audience.
The owner of Marion’s St. Louis Rib Company questioned having Big Jake’s Barbecue, soon to open on the other side of Delmar. Development chief Barbara Geisman said the cluster of similar businesses in a small area often attracts more patrons. South Grand with its plethora of Asian restaurants is an example of this. Mayor Slay also responded to requests from the business association leaders for assurances about possible traffic delays during construction of the streetscape improvements, given the Board of Public Service’s slow performance on Washington Avenue downtown. Slay promised cooperation from City departments during construction, being bid by Bi-State, along with improvements at the Transit Plaza.
Another issue which has raised concern among Delmar Commercial Committee leaders and Alderwoman Krewson, is the selection of lighting fixtures, which have long been planned to be consistent with the selections of the University City Loop Business District. Slay was reassuring as he spoke of the cooperation of the Streets Department and the great opportunity the City has to work cooperatively with U City in making this project a success. Mayor Slay introduced key staff members and drew attention, too, to the great things happening in both wards. Executive Director Laure Porterfield of SDCC played a significant role in arranging this meeting and seeing that a variety of morning meal alternatives was available to attendees, and coffee and beverages were supplied by Pageant staff, coming in early by special request of Joe Edwards, who made the space available for the special mayoral visit.
Original photograph caption
Mayor Slay addresses business owners at Halo Bar. Photographer not credited.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, September–October 2002.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Original source: SD_Times2002_09.pdf, printed page(s) 4; PDF page(s) 4.
