St Louis City Mayor Cara Spencer is making changes with St. Louis Development Corporation's leadership starting with a new chairman of the board. On Thursday, Spencer named her Chief of Staff Nancy Hawes as the new chair of the SLDC board, replacing Neal Richardson who served as both that role and continues to serve as CEO.
In a statement provided to KMOX, Mayor Spencer says "as I have previously said, I strongly believe that there should be separation of SLDC and the board that oversees the organization. This appointment is the first step in that direction."
Richardson says he supports the decision to move in another direction with the board chair.
"I want to be supportive of that transition to a new chair."
Spencer frequently targeted Richardson both on and off the campaign trail, calling his serving as CEO and Board Chair improper. Richardson defends serving as both, saying it helped operationally.
Is this only the beginning? We asked Spencer after her swearing in if she want to see Richardson step down as CEO unequivocally? Spencer didn't directly answer.
"I would like to see some change [at SLDC}, I do think its important that we establish a board chair that is separate from the CEO."
Spencer said she will work the SLDC board to take a look at what their leadership looks like. Is there a path forward where Richardson stays on as CEO? So far Richardson says he and Spencer have not spoken directly but hopes to soon.
"Her and I am sure will have a discussion about her vision around economic development, see if there's areas of alignment."
When Spencer and Richardson eventually meet, will Richardson step down as CEO if the Mayor asks for his resignation?
"That's something that her and I would have to discuss in greater detail. I couldn't make a comment on that either way right now."
Richardson says it would not be in his interest to be in dispute with the Mayor of the city, adding collaboration and unity is what the city needs right now.