STE. GENEVIEVE – The debate over how the federal government is dealing with the illegal immigration issue in the country came before the Ste. Genevieve Board of Aldermen when a number of residents expressed their disapproval of the city agreeing to cooperate with ICE.
That agreement, known as 287 G, was made in December, without going before the board of aldermen.
One of those speaking was Heidi Walker a business owner and resident. She is not in favor of the city cooperating with ICE with regards to persons taken into custody by city police who are in the country illegally. She asked the board to terminate the agreement and not to cooperate with the federal government.
Several other persons also spoke in favor of terminating the agreement.
Mayor Keim thanked those who spoke against the agreement. He said the city officers do not profile people, and do not act as ICE agents.
The video of the meeting is linked below. The public comment section begins at the 14-minute mark in the video.
Presentations were made by City Administrator David Bova, acting as community development director, a five-minute mark in the video, and Aaron Smith, tourism director at the 6:40 mark in video.
The Consent Agenda was approved.
It included:
Resolution 2026-19 to allow the police department to apply for a grant from the Missouri Department of Public Safety for local violent crime protection was passed.
Resolution 2026-20 for a property maintenance agreement with Charles “Chuck” Smith IV to maintain flood buyout property.
Resolution 2026-21 to apply for a recreational trails program grant from the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Resolution 2026-22 adopting the city’s loss prevention policies.
Old Business: None
New Business:
Resolution 2026-15 reappointing Brock Gibson to the tourism tax commission was approved.
Resolution 2026-16 reappointing Amanda Schwent to the tourism tax commission was approved.
Resolution 2026-17 reappointing Rebecca Monia to the tourism tax commission was approved.
Resolution 2026-18 reappointing Barbara Basler Peterson to the parks and recreation board was approved.
Bill No. 4705, an agreement with Superior Roofing Strategies LLC for the water treatment facility roof repair project for $28,757.88 was given first round approval.
Bill No. 4706, a second amendment to the purchase agreement with McBride Land Growth LLC was given first and second round approval. Second round approval was on a 7 yes, 0 no, with one absent, Alderman Teddy Ross.
Bill No. 4707 an ordinance to amend section 112.020 concerning access to records of the ordinances of the city was given first round approval.
Following the regular meeting the aldermen met for a work session on the Point Basse Sewer Study, at the one-hour mark in the video.
Ste. Genevieve, (Mo, USA) Board of Aldermen, February 12, 2026