Sixth District St. Louis County Councilman Ernie Trakas, R-Oakville, will be challenged in the Aug. 6 Republican primary by Oakville attorney Mike Archer. The winner of the race will face Democratic challenger Kevin Schartner, formerly of the Mehlville School District Board of Education, in the General Election Nov. 5.
Mike Archer, 68, of Oakville, is an attorney for Archer Law Firm L.L.C. He has not held public office in the past.
He 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: “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.”
Ernie Trakas, 74, of Oakville, is an attorney for the Child & Parental Rights Campaign. He has served as the 6th District Councilman since he was first elected in 2016 against former Rep. Patricia Yaeger. Trakas was reelected again in 2020 against then-Rep. Bob Burns.
He is married to former Mehlville school board member Lori Trakas and earned his law degree from George Mason University.
When asked why he is seeking a third term on the County Council, Trakas said: “For me, this is about public service and giving back to a community that deserves honest, earnest and qualified representation so that it continues to be a great place to live, work, and raise our families.”
The candidates gave the following answers to The Call’s questionnaire:
Editor’s note: The following questions and answers appeared in the July 25 print edition of the St. Louis Call, and were edited for print.
What issue do you consider the single most important issue in this race and why?
Archer: “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, 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 …. Additionally, we prioritize fostering an accountable and ethical leadership culture within the County Council. Transparency, integrity and accountability are fundamental principles.”
Trakas: “Requests for change of zoning matters in unincorporated 6th District. Why? Because there are predatory developers who only have their interest and profit first and not the good of the community’s or the best interests of South County.”
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 of roughly $45 million. 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.”
Trakas: “Public safety – we must make sure the Affton Southwest and the South County Police Precincts have all the resources and support needed to protect South County … Resisting MetroLink expansion and a city-county merger are other issues. There are those in the state of Missouri who seek financial gain from these two ideas and I will resist either proposal.”
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: “While there have been efforts to engage the community, I believe there is room for improvement … Appointees to the Planning Commission should serve terms that balance continuity with fresh perspectives, with the possibility of reappointment, to ensure accountability and responsiveness … 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.”
Trakas: “Because District 6 is mostly unincorporated and public hearings are held exclusively at the county seat located in Clayton, there is not enough engagement by the Planning Commission of the community related to zoning matters in District 6 … Appointees should serve two terms. Also, once a commissioner is not able or willing to invest the time needed for this important appointment, he/she should resign or be replaced … More visible signage of zoning petitions and wider distribution of mailed notices also need to change. Hearings on St. Louis County Planning Commission District 6 petitions should be held at the South County Government Center, or virtual/remote citizen appearance and participation in hearings should be provided.”
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: “I am honored to have been endorsed by the St. Louis County Police Officers Association, which underscores my steadfast dedication to supporting law enforcement … 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.”
Trakas: “One thing I would like to see is the renewal of the Neighborhood Watch Program in the area of Precinct 4 (the South County Precinct) which protects everything east of Highway 55 from Lemay to Arnold. Precinct 3 (the Affton Southwest Precinct) west of Interstate 55, has an established Neighborhood Watch Program. The NWP prides itself in ‘crime prevention through neighborhood cohesiveness and collaboration.’ I will also continue to make myself available to each captain of Precincts 3 and 4 and stay engaged with the St. Louis County Board of Police Commissioners and chief of police, and assure resources to prevent crime in District 6 are met.”
What are your thoughts on how the current County Council is operating? Do you support the decisions of the current Democratic council majority?
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.”
Trakas: “The County Council currently is dysfunctional because too many members place their self-serving agendas ahead of the people’s agenda … Right now the majority is made up of two Republicans and two Democrats whose primary goal is inaction and division. Examples include their refusal to sufficiently fund the Senior Tax Relief (at the time these answers were submitted). Other legislation concerning important matters continues to be held, some approaching a year.”
The now-canceled Yaeger-Milburn roundabout project sparked debate among residents regarding traffic management. What do you propose to address the traffic and safety issues not just at that intersection, but in the entire 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.”
Trakas: “Each intersection of concern needs to be evaluated individually by the Department of Transportation, and when issues are confirmed, measures put in place such as additional warning signage, lighted signage, rumble strips, and speed pillows when warranted.”
Transparency and engagement with residents are crucial for effective governance. What steps will you take to ensure active communication with constituents?
Archer: “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.”
Trakas: “Continued insistence that the Departments of Transportation and Public Works and the Planning Department hold town halls regarding controversial projects. The Milburn-Yaeger roundabout proposal is a recent example. The town hall meetings led to voices being heard that contributed to my decision not to support the project and my refusal to facilitate the necessary land acquisition/easements.”
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: “I will partner with local educational institutions and trade schools to develop workforce training programs tailored to the needs of our local businesses … 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.”
Trakas: “I will continue to advocate for home ownership developments, which will continue to establish the area, and scrutinize commercial zoning requests to ensure that thoughtful, South County-centric development is the standard and not the exception.”
Editor’s note: The following questions and answers appeared in the Aug. 1 print edition of the St. Louis Call, and were edited for print.
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. … 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.”
Trakas: “I think the question of whether Sam Page has the leadership, skills and team building qualities to lead St. Louis County government is legitimate.”
Are you satisfied with the current state of the county’s assessment process?
Archer: “I am concerned … 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.”
Trakas: “The process is dictated by the state of Missouri Legislature and the elected position of the St. Louis county assessor.”
Should the County Council have its own attorney besides the county counselor?
Archer: “Yes … 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.”
Trakas: “Yes.”
How will you make zoning decisions? What factors will you rely on?
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 … 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.”
Trakas: “The way I always have – by scrutinizing all zoning petitions and being engaged with developments that enhance District 6 and that receive community buy-in.”
Continue reading for web-exclusive questions and answers from the candidates
Editor’s note: The majority of these responses have not been edited other than to ensure appropriateness.
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.”
Trakas: “For me, this is about public service and giving back to a community that deserves honest, earnest and qualified representation so that it continues to be a great place to live, work, 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 incumbent’s obstructionist approach has 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.”
Trakas: “Requests for change of zoning matters in unincorporated 6th District. Why? Because there are predatory developers who only have their interest and profit first and not the good of the community’s or the best interests of South County.
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.”
Trakas: “Public safety – We must make sure the Affton Southwest and the South County Police Precincts have all the resources and support needed to protect South County … Resisting MetroLink expansion and a city-county merger are other issues. There are those in the State of Missouri who seek financial gain from these two ideas and I will resist either proposal.”
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.”
Trakas: “Because District 6 is mostly unincorporated and public hearings are held exclusively at the county seat located in Clayton, there is not enough engagement by the Planning Commission of the community related to zoning matters in District 6 … Appointees should serve two terms. Also, once a commissioner is not able or willing to invest the time needed for this important appointment, he/she should resign or be replaced … More visible signage of zoning petitions and wider distribution of mailed notices also needs to change. Hearings on St. Louis County Planning Commission District 6 petitions should be held at the South County Government Center, or virtual/remote citizen appearance and participation in hearings should be provided.”
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.”
Trakas: “I know the community has attempted it in the past. I believe smaller, local government is more accessible and better able to meet the needs of the citizens. I will support the community’s position in whatever direction they choose to proceed.”
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.”
Trakas: “No. I have never and never will accept donations from developers as long as they have matters pending before the Planning Commission or the County Council.”
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.”
Trakas: “The process is dictated by the State of Missouri legislature and the elected position of the St. Louis County Assessor.”
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.”
Trakas: “No. Currently political ideology, which results in too much petty, self-serving politics is happening and good governance for the people of St. Louis County is lacking, especially unincorporated areas like District 6.”
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.”
Trakas: “I will continue to advocate for home ownership developments, which will continue to establish the area, and scrutinize commercial zoning requests to ensure that thoughtful, South County centric development is standard and not the exception.”
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.”
Trakas: “Continue to be engaged in the annual budget process, and as council members pass a budget that supports the needs first, then the wants, of the taxpayers of St. Louis County.”
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.”
Trakas: “Yes.”
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.”
Trakas: “The way I always have, by scrutinizing all zoning petitions and being engaged with developments that enhance District 6 and that receive community buy-in.”
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.”
Trakas: “I think the question of whether Sam Page has the leadership, skills and team building qualities to lead St. Louis County government is legitimate.”
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. Unlike Ernie Trakas, I will not require the taxpayers to bail out unethical behavior.”
Trakas: “I will continue to be the guardian and voice against corruption in St. Louis County government, whether it is illegal acts of a County Executive, Economic Development Partnership, Bi-State officials, Loop Trolley-Folly and the incompetence and mismanagement of funds by CVC president, Kitty Ratcliffe.”
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.”
Trakas: “No … Decades of mismanagement and poor leadership have left St. Louis City in a declined, crime-ridden, financially strapped, state of existence. A merger would burden St. Louis County with the city’s huge debt and leave unincorporated District 6 at a complete disadvantage.”
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.”
Trakas: “No, unless it filed for and completed Chapter 13 bankruptcy as Detroit did … Allowing the city to enter the county as a municipality without going through bankruptcy would burden the county with great debt and costs and leave unincorporated 6th District at a complete disadvantage.”
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.”
Trakas: “Street and infrastructure improvements; effective remote/virtual access to County departments alleviating the need for in-person interaction for provision of day-to-day services that would have a direct positive impact on the taxpayer.”
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.
“It is deeply concerning that my opponent, Ernie Trakas, attempted to divert funding dedicated to law enforcement to other purposes like snow removal. This undermines public safety efforts and jeopardizes our community’s well-being.”
Trakas: “One thing I would like to see is the renewal of the Neighborhood Watch Program in the area of Precinct 4 (the South County Precinct) which protects everything east of Highway 55 from Lemay to Arnold. Precinct 3 (the Affton Southwest Precinct) west of Interstate 55, has an established Neighborhood Watch Program. The NWP prides itself in ‘Crime prevention through neighborhood cohesiveness and collaboration.’
“I will also continue to make myself available to each captain of Precincts 3 and 4 and stay engaged with the St. Louis County Board of Police Commissioners and chief of police, and assure resources to prevent crime in District 6 are met.”
What is your opinion of the leadership of Councilman Ernie Trakas?
Archer: “My opinion of Councilman Ernie Trakas’s leadership is deeply troubled. His past actions, including being bailed out by Sam Page with the use of $60,000 in taxpayer dollars to settle an unethical sexual harassment claim, raise serious concerns about his integrity and judgment. This settlement has created a situation where Trakas appears indebted to liberal County Executive Sam Page, compromising his independence and ability to represent the best interests of the residents of the 6th District.
“Furthermore, Trakas’s attempt to divert funding allocated for policing, which taxpayers specifically voted on, demonstrates a disregard for community priorities and public safety needs. This decision undermines trust in his leadership and calls into question his commitment to serving the residents of our district effectively.
“In my view, these actions disqualify Trakas from continuing in office. We need leaders who prioritize transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of taxpayer funds. As a candidate, I am committed to restoring integrity and ensuring that our elected officials are held to the highest ethical standards, always putting the needs of our community first.”
What do you consider to be your greatest accomplishment during your tenure as the 6th District councilman?
Trakas: “As chairman of the Ethics Committee, being responsible for exposing corruption in St. Louis County government leading to the indictment of Steve Stenger, Sheila Sweeney and others.”
Transparency and engagement with residents are crucial for effective governance. 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.”
Trakas: “Continued insistence that the Departments of Transportation and Public Works and Planning Department hold town halls regarding controversial projects. The Milburn-Yaeger roundabout proposal is a recent example. The town hall meetings led to voices being heard that contributed to my decision not to support the project and my refusal to facilitate the necessary land acquisition/easements.”
Should the St. Louis County police keep its current levels of funding or be defunded?
Archer: “Unlike Ernie Trakas who tried to remove Proposition P funding from the police, 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.”
Trakas: “Police budgets should be protected and, when and where necessary, never defunded. The safety and security of our community and its citizens always comes first.”
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.”
Trakas: “Good men and women all serve and protect our community everyday. Leadership starts at the top with the St. Louis County Board of Police Commissioners who oversee and protect nearly 1 million people in St. Louis County.”
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.”
Trakas: “Good governance over petty politics between the council and the county executive’s office … I will continue to push forward legislation that has a positive impact on our communities and residents such as my efforts to fund the Senior Tax Relief bill and Safe Streets bill to end panhandling.”
What are your thoughts on how the current County Council is operating? Do you support the decisions of the current Democratic council majority?
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.”
Trakas: “The County Council currently is dysfunctional because too many members place their self-serving agendas ahead of the people’s agenda … Right now the majority is made up of two Republicans and two Democrats whose primary goal is inaction and division. Examples include their refusal to sufficiently fund the Senior Tax Relief at the time these answers are submitted. Other legislation concerning important matters continues to be held, some approaching a year.”
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.”
Trakas: “I do not and will not accept contributions from developers who have pending proposed projects in District 6.”
The now-canceled Yaeger-Milburn roundabout project sparked debate among residents regarding traffic management. What alternative solutions do you propose to address the traffic and safety issues not just at that intersection, but in the entire 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.”
Trakas: “Each intersection of concern needs to be evaluated individually by the Department of Transportation and when issues are confirmed measures put in place such as additional warning signage, lighted signage, rumble strips, and speed pillows when warranted.”