In a vibrant gathering at St. Louis City Hall, local business owners and city officials convened for the City of St. Louis 2025 Business Resource Forum, a crucial event aimed at addressing the needs and challenges faced by the community. As the meeting unfolded, Christina Garmendia, Policy Director to President Megan Green, emphasized the importance of dialogue between city leaders and business owners. She expressed a desire for future forums to flip the script, allowing business owners to take the stage and share their insights.

Garmendia highlighted the Board of Aldermen's role in bridging gaps and responding to the community's needs. She encouraged attendees to voice their concerns and share their experiences, particularly in light of recent challenges posed by a tornado that had impacted many local businesses. With a show of hands, Garmendia gauged the audience's experiences, revealing a mix of new and established businesses, some of which had suffered physical damage or loss of inventory.

The heartfelt stories shared by business owners resonated deeply, showcasing their resilience and commitment to their employees and the community. Garmendia acknowledged their efforts, stating, "Cash is king," and underscoring the city's responsibility to earn the loyalty of its business community.

Following Garmendia, Alderman Shamim Clark Hubbard took the floor, sharing her own observations of the storm's impact on the Tenth Ward. She expressed empathy for the struggles faced by local businesses and reiterated the importance of accessibility to resources. Hubbard, who also serves on the St. Louis Development Corporation board, pledged to work collaboratively with her colleagues to ensure that assistance reaches those in need.

As the forum progressed, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and hope. City officials encouraged business owners to reach out for support, emphasizing that their voices matter in shaping the future of St. Louis. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing communication and collaboration, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of purpose and connection to their city.