Editor’s note: The following responses appeared in the Oct. 17, Oct. 24 and Oct. 31 print editions of The Call. Some responses may have been edited for grammar and shortened due to print space constraints. Continue to check callnewspapers.com for more web-exclusive content from the candidates, and see our note about The Call’s endorsement in this race.
The race for the 6th District County Council seat is between Oakville attorney Mike Archer, a Republican, and former Mehlville School District Board of Education president Kevin Schartner, a Democrat.
Mike Archer, of Oakville, is an attorney for Archer Law Firm L.L.C. He has not held public office in the past. He defeated 6th District Councilman Ernie Trakas of Oakville in the Republican primary in August.
Archer is married to Robin Lynne Archer and together they have two adult children.
Archer earned his undergraduate degree at St. Louis University and master’s and law degrees from Western Michigan University.
When asked why he was seeking office, he said: “In summary, I am running for office because I believe in the potential of St. Louis County to be a place where families can live, work and thrive. By prioritizing economic development, public safety and community engagement, I am dedicated to building a brighter future for all residents of St. Louis County.”
Kevin Schartner, of Oakville, is married to Beth and together they have two adult children.
Schartner served as a Mehlville school board director from 2016 to 2022 and was president of the school board from April 2019 to April 2022. He has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Marquette University and a master’s degree in engineering management from Syracuse University.
When asked why he is running, Schartner said, “I am running for the County Council to improve public safety and economic growth in South County. I will work to ensure we have safe and prosperous communities in which to live and raise our families.”
The candidates gave the following answers to The Call’s questionnaire:
What issue do you consider the single most important issue in this race?
Archer: “My primary focus is on fostering vibrant regional development by removing unnecessary governmental barriers. Our community has witnessed the detrimental effects of bureaucratic hurdles hindering economic growth and opportunity … We are committed to streamlining regulations and creating a more business-friendly environment that attracts investment … Furthermore, we recognize the importance of supporting our senior citizens and ensuring their financial security … Additionally, we prioritize fostering an accountable and ethical leadership culture within the County Council. Transparency, integrity and accountability are fundamental principles that guide our approach to governance.”
Schartner: “Public safety is the highest priority of local government and is a fundamental requirement to build strong communities. In addition to supporting our fire departments and fixing dangerous intersections, I strongly support law enforcement and am endorsed by the St. Louis County Fraternal Order of Police.” (Editor’s note: Schartner was endorsed by the FOP in the August primary. The FOP did not make any endorsement in the 6th District race for the general election.)
Should the St. Louis County police keep its current levels of funding or be defunded?
Archer: “Public safety is paramount, and our law enforcement officers play a critical role in safeguarding our communities. Defunding the police would undermine their ability to effectively protect and serve residents, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods. The funding also goes for training in the latest procedures and techniques. This gives the citizens a police officer that is well-trained and well-equipped.”
Schartner: “A well-funded and well-trained police force is crucial to ensuring public safety and maintaining order in our communities. While there is a strong argument for increased investment in social services, mental health resources and community-based programs to address the root causes of crime, it is essential that we maintain adequate funding for our law enforcement agencies.”
Are you satisfied with the current state of the county’s assessment process?
Archer: “I am concerned about the current state of the county’s assessment process. Many residents have seen their property taxes rise significantly, which can place a substantial burden on homeowners, especially those on fixed incomes. Property assessments should accurately reflect fair market value, ensuring that taxpayers are not being overburdened or unfairly taxed out of their homes. It’s essential that the assessment process is transparent, consistent and fair to all property owners.”
Schartner: “I am not satisfied with the county’s current assessment process and see two main issues that need to be addressed. First, automobiles, which are depreciable assets, were assessed as appreciating in value due to COVID-related supply chain shortages, which should never happen. Second, sharp increases in property values have caused significant jumps in property taxes. Both of these issues should be resolved at the state level, and I will work with state officials to promote legislation that prevents depreciable assets from increasing taxes and stops steep property tax increases.”
What is your opinion of the leadership of County Executive Sam Page?
Archer: “Sam Page’s leadership has been marred by ethical concerns, demonstrating a prioritization of personal power over the needs of our community. His actions have come under scrutiny, with ongoing investigations into his conduct. Under his watch, St. Louis County has faced significant financial challenges, including a troubling $45 million deficit. Moreover, his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic recovery has been criticized for a lack of transparency and responsiveness to community input … Effective leadership requires accountability, transparency and a genuine commitment to serving the best interests of all constituents.”
Schartner: “I believe it is important to focus on the results achieved rather than personal opinions. While I will have different opinions and experiences than other leaders, my primary goal is to serve the best interests of my constituents. I am committed to fostering a collaborative environment where we can work together, regardless of individual differences, to address the needs of our community. As a County Councilman, I will strive to build strong partnerships with all stakeholders to ensure that our county continues to thrive.”
Should the County Council have its own attorney besides the county counselor?
Archer: “Yes, the County Council should have its own independent attorney separate from the county counselor. This ensures that the council can receive impartial legal advice and representation that reflects the interests of the entire community, rather than a perspective that may be influenced by the county executive. Having independent legal counsel strengthens transparency, accountability and ensures that decisions made by the council are guided by legal expertise that prioritizes the will and best interests of our residents.”
Schartner: “Yes, as the legislative branch of county government, the County Council should have its own attorney.”
Are you satisfied with the direction the county is headed under the current County Council?
Archer: “No, I am not satisfied with the direction the county is headed under the current County Council. Despite record budget revenue, the County is facing a roughly $45 million budget deficit and has over $2 billion in incomplete projects. This is a clear indication of mismanagement and inefficiency within the Council. Fiscal responsibility and effective governance are crucial for the well-being of our community. We need a County Council that can balance the budget, prioritize essential projects and ensure that taxpayer money is used wisely. It’s time for new leadership that will address these issues head-on and steer St. Louis County in a more responsible and prosperous direction.”
Schartner: “No, I am not satisfied with the direction of the county under the current County Council. When county government falters, unincorporated South County is hit hardest. We need to quickly make changes, including restoring Port Authority funding to Lemay, providing more support to our County Police and Prosecuting Attorney to ensure criminals are caught and fully prosecuted, prioritizing local road repairs and cutting red tape that costs our local businesses valuable time and money.”
What specific policies or initiatives, if any, will you introduce to attract new businesses and support the growth of existing businesses, in the 6th District?
Archer: “To attract new businesses and support the growth of existing ones in the 6th District, I will partner with local educational institutions and trade schools to develop workforce training programs tailored to the needs of our local businesses. This will ensure that our workforce has the skills necessary to meet the demands of employers and attract high-quality jobs to the area. Additionally, I will prioritize investment in critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges and broadband, to support business operations and logistics. Improved infrastructure will enhance the district’s appeal to new businesses and support the growth of existing ones. Furthermore, I will actively market the 6th District and St. Louis County as a prime location for businesses by highlighting our community’s strengths, such as our skilled workforce, strategic location and quality of life. These initiatives will attract new businesses and drive economic growth in our area.”
Schartner: “I have spoken with local business owners, and many are frustrated by lengthy processes and high costs, which have led some to abandon new construction and expansion plans that would have benefited our community. As a council member, I will work to review and streamline our policies, ensuring we maintain quality standards while reducing the costs and delays for new and expanding businesses.”
In the past, 6th District council members have been involved in corruption schemes in St. Louis County government. What will you do to prove to 6th District residents that you are not violating the public trust as some of their other public officials have?
Archer: “As a former military pilot, former St. Louis County prosecutor and current advocate for those who have been injured and abused, my commitment to ethics and integrity is unwavering. I understand the importance of public trust and the responsibility that comes with holding public office. My career has been dedicated to upholding justice and serving the community with honesty and transparency. I have prosecuted cases with diligence and fairness, ensuring that the law is applied equitably to protect our residents. In my current legal practice, I advocate for individuals who have suffered injustices, emphasizing compassion and accountability in every case. To earn the trust of 6th District residents, I will prioritize ethical leadership and maintain the highest standards of integrity.
Schartner: “When I ran for the Mehlville School Board in 2016, I promised to ensure Prop R funds were spent as intended to improve education. During my six years on the board, we upheld this commitment through independent audits conducted by finance professionals from our community. I will bring the same commitment to transparency and accountability to the County Council, acting ethically and being open to audits and other investigations to prove we are trustworthy and transparent.”
Keep reading for web-exclusive questions and answers from the candidates
Editor’s note: The following questions and answers are as they were submitted to The Call by the candidates in their entirety. They have not been edited, other than to ensure appropriate language and no direct attacks on opponents or other candidates.
Reason for seeking office:
Archer: “I am running for office because I am deeply committed to ensuring that St. Louis County remains a place where families can thrive. Central to my candidacy is the belief that every resident deserves to live in a safe and vibrant community where they can raise their families with confidence and opportunity. I believe that by fostering regional development, removing barriers to economic growth, and attracting businesses to our area, we can create more job opportunities and economic stability for families in St. Louis County.
“Moreover, public safety is a top priority for me. I am dedicated to working collaboratively with law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and residents to ensure that our neighborhoods are safe and secure. Because of my support of Law Enforcement, I have been endorsed by the St. Louis County Police Officers Association. By investing in effective crime prevention strategies, supporting community policing efforts, and addressing the root causes of crime, we can enhance public safety and promote a sense of security for all residents.
“In addition to economic prosperity and public safety, I am committed to building a vibrant community where residents feel connected and engaged. This includes supporting local initiatives, investing in infrastructure, and fostering a sense of belonging for all residents.
“By promoting community engagement, supporting local businesses, and investing in parks and facilities, we can create a vibrant and inclusive community where families can thrive.
“In summary, I am running for office because I believe in the potential of St. Louis County to be a place where families can live, work, and thrive. By prioritizing economic development, public safety, and community engagement, I am dedicated to building a brighter future for all residents of St. Louis County.”
Schartner: “I am running for the County Council to improve public safety and economic growth in South County. I will work to ensure we have safe and prosperous communities in which to live and raise our families.”
What issue do you consider the single most important issue in this race and why?
Archer: “As a candidate for the St. Louis County Council, our primary focus is on fostering vibrant regional development by removing unnecessary governmental barriers. Our community has witnessed the detrimental effects of bureaucratic hurdles hindering economic growth and opportunity. The prior 6th District Councilman’s approach stifled business expansion and investment, resulting in numerous vacant lots and missed opportunities for job creation and community enhancement. We are committed to streamlining regulations and creating a more business-friendly environment that attracts investment, stimulates growth, and revitalizes our neighborhoods.
“Furthermore, we recognize the importance of supporting our senior citizens and ensuring their financial security. We advocate for tax freezes for seniors, recognizing their invaluable contributions to our community and the need to alleviate financial burdens during their retirement years. It is essential to protect our seniors’ ability to remain in their homes and maintain their quality of life without undue financial strain.
“Additionally, we prioritize fostering an accountable and ethical leadership culture within the County Council. Transparency, integrity, and accountability are fundamental principles that guide our approach to governance.
“We pledge to operate with the highest ethical standards, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and efficiently. By promoting transparency and accountability, we aim to restore trust in local government and ensure that the needs and interests of our constituents are always prioritized.”
Schartner: “Public safety is the highest priority of local government and is a fundamental requirement to build strong communities. In addition to supporting our fire departments and fixing dangerous intersections, I strongly support law enforcement and am endorsed by the St. Louis County Fraternal Order of Police.” (Editor’s note: Schartner was endorsed by the FOP in the August primary. The FOP did not make any endorsement in the 6th District race for the general election.)
Other issues you perceive in your race and your position on each:
Archer: “There are a whole host of issues that need to be addressed but the one issue that permeates all other issues is the budget. We cannot sustain a deficit roughly of forty five million dollars ($45,000,000). First of all, we need to stimulate small business opportunities by cutting red tape through the permitting process. This will increase the revenue. On the other side of the equation, spending needs to be trimmed. Hard decisions need to be made regarding the budget.
Schartner: “In addition to public safety, other issues I believe are high priorities are to fix worn out roads and aging infrastructure, support economic development through responsible residential and business growth, help seniors to stay in their homes through tax relief, supporting our schools, and fixing our county budget deficit to live within our means.”
Do you believe the St. Louis County Planning Commission is responsive to county residents? How long should appointees serve on the Planning Commission? Is there anything about the zoning process that should change?
Archer: “The responsiveness of the St. Louis County Planning Commission to county residents is a crucial concern. While there have been efforts to engage the community, I believe there is room for improvement to ensure that residents’ voices are truly heard and acted upon.
“Appointees to the Planning Commission should serve terms that balance continuity with fresh perspectives, with the possibility of reappointment, to ensure accountability and responsiveness to the changing needs of our community.
“The zoning process itself should be more transparent and streamlined. We need to cut red tape and reduce bureaucratic delays that hinder development and economic growth. Additionally, it’s essential to protect property rights and ensure that zoning decisions reflect the will of the residents, not just special interests.”
I believe there is opportunity to improve community engagement with the St. Louis County Planning Commission, especially on zoning issues that directly affect residents. Additionally, streamlining the process to reduce red tape and delays would be beneficial, as these often cost South County businesses valuable time and money when opening a new location or starting up. I’ve spoken with several South County business owners who have expressed frustration over the significant time and expenses they face while waiting for decisions to be made.
Schartner: “I believe appointees should serve two terms. I believe participation in meetings should allow for remote participation and that meetings with District 6 specific petitions should be held in South County.”
What is your position on incorporation?
Archer: “St. Louis County is filled with numerous municipalities in our region are a testament to the rich diversity and unique culture that reflect the interests and values of the people. These incorporated areas foster a strong sense of pride and community identity, which is vital for maintaining our local heritage and traditions.
“As long as these municipal governments remain responsive to the residents they serve, they should be allowed to continue to thrive. Incorporation empowers communities to have greater control over their own affairs, leading to more effective and efficient governance that aligns with the specific needs and desires of their residents.”
Schartner: “Incorporation should be a decision of the residents. While most in South County likely prefer staying unincorporated, if the county can’t provide essential services like public safety, infrastructure, and economic growth, incorporation should remain an option for the citizens to decide on.”
Do you plan to accept campaign contributions from developers with projects before the council? Should council members vote on rezoning and development projects submitted by campaign contributors?
Archer: “My primary commitment as a candidate for St. Louis County Council is to serve the best interests of my future constituents. It is essential that council members make decisions that benefit the community, regardless of the sources of campaign contributions.
“Electing ethical leaders who consistently put the citizens they represent first is exceptionally important, and I am dedicated to maintaining that standard.”
Schartner: “No, campaign contributions should never be accepted from developers with projects before the council. If a council member accepts campaign contributions from a developer, and that developer brings a project before the council in the future during the member’s tenure, the member must abstain from voting on any matters related to that contributor.”
Are you satisfied with the current state of the county’s assessment process?
Archer: “I am concerned about the current state of the county’s assessment process. Many residents have seen their property taxes rise significantly, which can place a substantial burden on homeowners, especially those on fixed incomes.
“Property assessments should accurately reflect fair market value, ensuring that taxpayers are not being overburdened or unfairly taxed out of their homes. It’s essential that the assessment process is transparent, consistent, and fair to all property owners.”
Schartner: “I am not satisfied with the county’s current assessment process and see two main issues that need to be addressed. First, automobiles, which are depreciable assets, were assessed as appreciating in value due to COVID-related supply chain shortages, which should never happen. Second, sharp increases in property values have caused significant jumps in property taxes. Both of these issues should be resolved at the state level, and I will work with state officials to promote legislation that prevents depreciable assets from increasing taxes and stops steep property tax increases.”
Are you satisfied with the direction the county is headed under the current County Council?
Archer: “No, I am not satisfied with the direction the county is headed under the current County Council. Despite record budget revenue, the County is facing a roughly $45 million budget deficit and has over $2 billion in incomplete projects. This is a clear indication of mismanagement and inefficiency within the Council.
“Fiscal responsibility and effective governance are crucial for the well-being of our community. We need a County Council that can balance the budget, prioritize essential projects, and ensure that taxpayer money is used wisely. It’s time for new leadership that will address these issues head-on and steer St. Louis County in a more responsible and prosperous direction.”
Schartner: “No, I am not satisfied with the direction of the county under the current County Council. When county government falters, unincorporated South County is hit hardest. We need to quickly make changes, including restoring Port Authority funding to Lemay, providing more support to our County Police and Prosecuting Attorney to ensure criminals are caught and fully prosecuted, prioritizing local road repairs, and cutting red tape that costs our local businesses valuable time and money.”
What specific policies or initiatives, if any, will you introduce to attract new businesses and support the growth of existing businesses, in the 6th District?
Archer: “To attract new businesses and support the growth of existing ones in the 6th District, I will partner with local educational institutions and trade schools to develop workforce training programs tailored to the needs of our local businesses. This will ensure that our workforce has the skills necessary to meet the demands of employers and attract high-quality jobs to the area. Additionally, I will prioritize investment in critical infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and broadband, to support business operations and logistics. Improved infrastructure will enhance the district’s appeal to new businesses and support the growth of existing ones. Furthermore, I will actively market the 6th District and St. Louis County as a prime location for businesses by highlighting our community’s strengths, such as our skilled workforce, strategic location, and quality of life. These initiatives will attract new businesses and drive economic growth in our area.”
Schartner: “I have spoken with local business owners and many are frustrated by lengthy processes and high costs, which have led some to abandon new construction and expansion plans that would have benefited our community. As a council member, I will work to review and streamline our policies, ensuring we maintain quality standards while reducing the costs and delays for new and expanding businesses.”
Given budget cuts that have led to reduced services and delayed initiatives like the senior tax cut, what specific strategies will you employ to balance the budget while ensuring that services are not compromised?
Archer: “The government has grown too big and drifted from its core functions, resulting in inefficient spending and unnecessary burdens on taxpayers. As your representative, I will advocate for fundamental changes to our budgeting process. We need to implement zero-based budgeting, where every expenditure must be justified from the ground up. This approach ensures that taxpayer dollars are allocated wisely and efficiently, prioritizing essential services without unnecessary bloat.
“Additionally, we must focus on reducing government waste and eliminating redundant programs that do not deliver measurable benefits to our community. By streamlining operations and promoting fiscal responsibility, we can balance the budget while safeguarding vital services. It’s time to restore accountability in government spending and prioritize the needs of taxpayers above all else.”
Schartner: “To balance the budget without compromising services, the county must focus on increasing efficiency. This means reviewing county services to identify cost-saving opportunities and utilizing technology to reduce expenses while improving overall effectiveness.”
Should the County Council have its own attorney besides the county counselor?
Archer: “Yes, the County Council should have its own independent attorney separate from the county counselor. This ensures that the council can receive impartial legal advice and representation that reflects the interests of the entire community, rather than a perspective that may be influenced by the county executive. Having independent legal counsel strengthens transparency, accountability, and ensures that decisions made by the council are guided by legal expertise that prioritizes the will and best interests of our residents.”
Schartner: “Yes, as the legislative branch of county government, the County Council should have its own attorney.”
How will you make zoning decisions? Will you rely on resident feedback, or other factors?
Archer: “Making zoning decisions requires a balanced approach that considers both resident feedback and broader community needs. Resident input is essential and should be at the forefront of all zoning considerations. It’s crucial to listen to the concerns and preferences of our community members, as they are directly impacted by these decisions.
“At the same time, it’s important to consider the overall needs of the community, including the necessity for new goods, services, and economic growth. Balancing resident feedback with strategic planning and thoughtful consideration of community development goals ensures that zoning decisions promote both quality of life and economic vitality.”
Schartner: “I will make zoning decisions by considering resident feedback and evaluating the value each change brings to our South County community. The focus will always be on what benefits the residents most.”
What is your opinion of the leadership of County Executive Sam Page?
Archer: “Sam Page’s leadership has been marred by ethical concerns, demonstrating a prioritization of personal power over the needs of our community. His actions have come under scrutiny, with ongoing investigations into his conduct. Under his watch, St. Louis County has faced significant financial challenges, including a troubling $45 million deficit. Moreover, his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic recovery has been criticized for a lack of transparency and responsiveness to community input.
“During a critical time when businesses needed clear direction and support to recover post-pandemic, Page’s failure to swiftly reopen our community had severe repercussions. Many local businesses struggled to stay afloat, further exacerbated by prolonged shutdowns and unclear guidelines. This damaging approach has underscored a disconnect between leadership decisions and the real-world impacts on residents and businesses alike.
“Effective leadership requires accountability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to serving the best interests of all constituents. As voters, we deserve leaders who prioritize ethical governance and actively engage with the community to make informed, impactful decisions that foster growth and prosperity. It is essential that we hold our elected officials to the highest standards of integrity and responsiveness to ensure a thriving and resilient St. Louis County.”
Schartner: “I believe it is important to focus on the results achieved rather than personal opinions. While I will have different opinions and experiences than other leaders, my primary goal is to serve the best interests of my constituents. I am committed to fostering a collaborative environment where we can work together, regardless of individual differences, to address the needs of our community. As a County Councilman, I will strive to build strong partnerships with all stakeholders to ensure that our county continues to thrive.”
In the past, 6th District council members have been involved in corruption schemes in St. Louis County government. What will you do to prove to 6th District residents that you are not violating the public trust as some of their other public officials have?
Archer: “As a former military pilot, former St. Louis County prosecutor, and current advocate for those who have been injured and abused, my commitment to ethics and integrity is unwavering. I understand the importance of public trust and the responsibility that comes with holding public office.
“My career has been dedicated to upholding justice and serving the community with honesty and transparency. I have prosecuted cases with diligence and fairness, ensuring that the law is applied equitably to protect our residents. In my current legal practice, I advocate for individuals who have suffered injustices, emphasizing compassion and accountability in every case.
“To earn the trust of 6th District residents, I will prioritize ethical leadership and maintain the highest standards of integrity.”
Schartner: “When I ran for the Mehlville School Board in 2016, I promised to ensure Prop R funds were spent as intended to improve education. During my six years on the board, we upheld this commitment through independent audits conducted by finance professionals from our community. I will bring the same commitment to transparency and accountability to the County Council, acting ethically and being open to audits and other investigations to prove we are trustworthy and transparent.”
Would you support a city-county merger with St. Louis? Why or why not?
Archer: “No, I do not support a city-county merger. St. Louis County should not be responsible for bailing out the failed St. Louis City government. We cannot afford to take on additional financial burdens that could strain resources meant for our own communities. Furthermore, merging with a city government that has faced significant challenges in governance raises concerns about the potential impact on our local decision-making processes. It’s important to maintain our autonomy and ensure that decisions affecting our lives are made locally, with accountability to our residents. A merger could risk diluting our ability to address the unique needs and priorities of St. Louis County effectively.”
Schartner: “No, I do not support a city-county merger with St. Louis City. The city has number of issues, including high debt and crime, that would over-burden St. Louis County and dilute the representation and resources for St. Louis County residents. Each should maintain its own local control to better serve its community’s special needs.”
Would you support St. Louis City entering the county as a municipality? What effect would that have on the 6th District?
Archer: “No, St. Louis County should not be responsible for bailing out the failed St. Louis City government.”
Schartner: “I do not support St. Louis City entering St. Louis County as a municipality. It would shift resources and focus away from the 6th District, potentially reducing local services and representation. Our district’s needs are better served without such a merger.”
What aspects of county government would you improve?
Archer: “As a candidate for county government, I am committed to making significant improvements in two critical areas: budget management and community safety. First and foremost, I will work diligently to ensure fiscal responsibility and transparency in our budgeting processes. This includes implementing rigorous oversight and accountability measures to eliminate waste, streamline operations, and prioritize essential services without burdening taxpayers unnecessarily.
“Secondly, enhancing community safety is paramount. I will advocate for increased investment in law enforcement resources and initiatives that support crime prevention and community policing efforts. Strengthening partnerships between law enforcement agencies and local communities is essential for fostering trust and enhancing public safety outcomes across St. Louis County.”
Schartner: “I will focus on improving public safety, repairing and maintaining our roads, and fostering smart residential and business development. Additionally, I will work to increase government transparency, ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars, and enhance community services to improve the overall quality of life for our residents.”
With concerns about crime rates, what are your plans to enhance community safety? How will you collaborate with local law enforcement to ensure effective crime prevention and response?
Archer: “With rising concerns about crime rates, enhancing community safety is a top priority for me. I am honored to have been endorsed by the St. Louis County Police Officers Association, which underscores my steadfast dedication to supporting law enforcement. As a former prosecutor, I understand the critical role that effective law enforcement plays in keeping our communities safe.
“My plan to enhance community safety involves proactive measures to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement agencies and local communities. This includes increasing resources for crime prevention programs, supporting community policing initiatives, and ensuring that law enforcement has the tools and training necessary to respond swiftly and effectively to incidents.”
Schartner: “I’ve had the opportunity to participate in two police ride-alongs, where I saw firsthand the challenges our officers face and the need for additional resources and targeted policy changes. Over the past year, I also engaged with local law enforcement through the South County Police Business Association meetings. Moving forward, I will maintain regular communication with police leadership and officers to ensure we are addressing their needs, from improved equipment to better training. My goal is to enhance crime prevention efforts, strengthen community policing, and ensure criminals are swiftly removed from our streets, making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”
Should council members be responsible for their own attorney’s fees in quo warranto cases?
Archer: “Council members should not be responsible for their attorney’s fees in quo warranto actions when the allegations involve acts that they made in their official capacity.”
Schartner: “I believe council members should be responsible for their own attorney fees if they lose a quo warranto case. However, if a council member successfully defends themselves in such a case, their attorney fees should be covered. This approach ensures accountability while also protecting council members from unjust financial burdens when they are in the right.”
What steps will you take to ensure active communication with constituents and ensure their voices are heard in the decision-making process?
Archer: “Transparency and active engagement with residents are foundational to effective governance. If elected, I am committed to ensuring that every major decision affecting our community is made openly and with public input. This means not only conducting public hearings and forums on significant issues but also ensuring that the deliberations and decision-making processes are accessible to all.
“I will prioritize holding town hall meetings, forums, and community discussions where residents can voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback on proposed actions. It is crucial that important discussions around policies, budgets, and projects happen in public forums, allowing residents to understand the rationale behind decisions and participate in shaping our community’s future.”
Schartner: “To ensure open communication with constituents and that their voices are heard in decision-making, I will implement a multi-faceted approach. Along with promptly responding to emails and phone calls, I will hold quarterly town hall meetings in each of the four main quadrants of District 6. These meetings will serve as a platform for residents to share their concerns, provide feedback, and stay informed about county initiatives, successes, and areas needing improvement. I began holding these forums during my campaign and will continue this practice throughout my term to maintain transparency and active engagement with our community.”
Should the St. Louis County police keep its current levels of funding or be defunded?
Archer: “I firmly believe that the St. Louis County police should be funded and supported at their greater levels. Public safety is paramount, and our law enforcement officers play a critical role in safeguarding our communities. Defunding the police would undermine their ability to effectively protect and serve residents, jeopardizing the safety and well-being of our neighborhoods. The funding also goes for training in the latest procedures and techniques. This gives the citizens a police officer that is well trained and well equipped.
“I know this first hand since I am qualified to teach police officers under their certification, Police Officer and Standards Training (P.O.S.T.).”
Schartner: “A well-funded and well-trained police force is crucial to ensuring public safety and maintaining order in our communities. While there is a strong argument for increased investment in social services, mental health resources, and community-based programs to address the root causes of crime, it is essential that we maintain adequate funding for our law enforcement agencies.”
What are your thoughts on the St. Louis County police?
Archer: “The St. Louis County police are heroes who courageously put their lives on the line every day to protect our community. I have deep respect and admiration for the men and women who serve with integrity and dedication. It is crucial to support and honor all ethical police officers who uphold the highest standards of professionalism and serve as pillars of safety and security in our neighborhoods.”
Schartner: “I have always held our police officers in high regard, recognizing the vital role they play in safeguarding our neighborhoods. Through personal experiences, including two police ride-alongs, I have witnessed firsthand their dedication and commitment to serving our community. They face challenging situations daily, from apprehending criminals to providing emergency assistance. Our officers are true heroes, often working under demanding conditions to protect and serve our residents.”
What is the biggest issue facing St. Louis County today? What will you do to address it?
Archer: “The biggest issues facing St. Louis County today are public safety and economic development. As a former prosecutor and advocate for community safety, I understand the urgency of addressing crime and ensuring the safety of our neighborhoods. I will prioritize funding for law enforcement, supporting community policing initiatives, and enhancing partnerships between law enforcement agencies and local communities to reduce crime and improve public safety.
“In addition to public safety, I am dedicated to fostering economic growth and job creation in our county. This includes revitalizing commercial spaces such as malls and office buildings to prevent vacancies and attract new businesses. I will advocate for policies that incentivize business investment, streamline regulations to support small businesses, and promote workforce development programs to ensure residents have the skills needed for available jobs.”
Schartner: “The biggest issue facing St. Louis County is crime. Public safety is fundamental to building strong residential communities and attracting successful businesses. My goal is to enhance crime prevention efforts, strengthen community policing, and ensure criminals are swiftly removed from our streets, making our neighborhoods safer for everyone.”
What are your thoughts on how the current County Council is operating?
Archer: “No, I believe the current County Council has fallen short in its responsibilities. A government tasked with securing our community, they have failed to prioritize public safety. Moreover, the decision-making that has led to businesses leaving town is concerning and detrimental to our local economy. The presence of a $45 million deficit despite record revenue is a clear sign of fiscal mismanagement. It’s crucial that our leaders prioritize effective governance and responsible fiscal policies to truly serve the best interests of our residents.”
Schartner: “I believe the current County Council has struggled to implement timely solutions on high impact issues, which has negatively impacted people in my home district. Examples include the delay to implement funding for the senior property tax freeze and delays in distributing ARPA funds to local organizations. My focus will be to build strong collaborative relationships across the council representatives and find common ground to address the needs of our community.”
If elected, will you accept campaign contributions from developers with projects pending or recently approved in the 6th District?
Archer: “Duplicate question: Please see the answer above.”
Schartner: “No.”
What solutions do you propose to address the traffic and safety concerns in the 6th District?
Archer: “Improving traffic in St. Louis County requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes completing major infrastructure projects and maintaining our roads and intersections. Currently, the county faces over $2 billion in unfinished projects, which contributes to congestion and delays for residents and businesses alike.
“Once elected, I will advocate for the timely completion of critical infrastructure projects that alleviate traffic bottlenecks and improve connectivity throughout the county. This includes investing in road expansions, bridge repairs, and intersection upgrades to enhance traffic flow and safety.”
Schartner did not answer.