Orgotek

St. Louis, we want you to hear directly from us regarding the opening of City pools. After a request from the #SLMPD, the Mayor's Office will utilize contracted security to help fulfill the requested pool-opening functions to ensure pools could open while preserving critical public safety resources. "The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department (SLMPD) understands how important city pools are to families and neighborhoods during the summer months. We know many residents look forward to pools opening as safe places for recreation, relief from the heat, and community connection. Park Rangers serve an important role within the City’s overall public safety strategy. Their primary responsibility is helping maintain safety in our parks and public spaces, supporting quality-of-life concerns, and assisting with public safety initiatives throughout the community. Under local governance, the City assigned Park Rangers to operational pool-opening responsibilities and provide continuous security operations, despite having the staffing or training to perform the requested duties. Currently, there is no agreement between the Park Rangers and recreational centers to perform these pool operational tasks, which fall outside the scope of their public safety duties. We believe public safety resources should remain focused on public safety responsibilities, while still supporting the City’s broader efforts to provide services and recreational opportunities for residents. Several weeks ago, the SLMPD requested the Mayor's Office consider utilizing contracted security or other staffing solutions to fulfill the requested pool-opening functions to ensure pools could open while preserving critical public safety resources. The City has previously hired security to perform various functions at City recreational centers. We remain committed to funding our dedicated Park Rangers and working collaboratively with City leaders and community partners to support safe, accessible neighborhoods and public spaces across St. Louis."