Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions & Answers

To learn more, read this recent article in the Common Space.

Why an Initiative?
In 1874 Forest Park was dedicated to the citizens of St. Louis. Our parks belong to the people, not to the politicians or institutions that border the parks. Now its up to the citizens to protect our crown jewel, Forest Park, and all other city parks.

What does the Petition do?
The City Parks Protection Initiative would prohibit the city from selling any St. Louis parkland without a vote of the people. After gathering 22,000 signatures, the issue will be put on the ballot and the citizens of St. Louis will have the opportunity to vote on this proposal. Only registered voters in the city of St. Louis may sign the petitions.

The official language of the initiative states:
Any real estate, now or hereafter owned by the City or any agency or instrumentality of the City, which is principally used or held out for use as a public park, shall not be sold, leased, given away or otherwise disposed of, and shall be used only as a public park, nor shall any structure be built in any such park to accommodate activities not customarily associated with park use or outdoor recreation, unless such sale, lease, disposal, gift or structure is approved by a majority of the qualified electors voting thereon.