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and growing issue for cities of every size. The task force will seek to identify new ways in which municipal leadership can be promoted and advanced by the NLC’s Council on Youth, Education, and Families (YEF Institute). At its first meeting, the task force discussed initial steps toward advancing the efforts of NLC’s YEF Institute to assist municipal leaders seeking improvement in their cities’ public schools. The task force also emphasized the importance of collaboration with school district officials and engagement of a diverse group of stakeholders. By collaborating with schools boards and superintendents, city leaders can play an active and unique role in strengthening local education systems. The task force published two documents on the topic, both are attached for your consideration. The Mayor, Council Members Glickert and Price, Lehman Walker and I met with representatives of Olivette and the St. Louis County Economic Council Wednesday to discuss the possibility of a joint economic development effort at Olive and I-170interchange the . The group discussed the possibility of jointly funding a market analysis for the area roughly identified as Price to McKnight. I have included a sample feasibility study to provide you with an idea of the general information provided in such a report. As a point of reference, the cost of the attached report was $45,000. Once we have assessed our level of internal agreement and interest, we can meet with Olivette regarding their interest in a joint working arrangement. Once we agree on the use of possible incentives, footprint of the area and financing structures, we can consider a feasibility study and continue the conversation with the County. County Community Development City staff met with representatives of the Department regarding the CDBG –loan program. Energy I am hoping to collaborate with the County with their Community Cares Assistance program , which runs through April. They have not yet agreed to administer our program; their program only covers the unincorporated areas of the County. Mr. Jim Holtzman, Community Development Director for the Office of Community Home Improvement Development reviewed the possibility of expanding our Loan Program. As you know, the University City Home Improvement Loan program currently administered by St. Louis County is a loan or loan/grant program. This structure ensures that funding is continuously available to University City residents. We have over $70,000 available in the program currently. Because even a $20 monthly payment is more than many applicants can bear I am recommending that we respond to this concern by allowing grants for the neediest senior citizens. Almost every other program administered by the County is grant based. They are reviewing our expansion based on applicants 65 years or older and will let us know if we need to make any additional changes. Please let me know if you have a problem with the grant allowance.