Forty-one leaders representing government, business, and civic interests have united to make a difference in the St. Louis region. FOCUS St. Louis and the Regional Chamber and Growth Association (RCGA) have partnered together to form the Regional Governance Policy Group (RGPG).
Beginning in February 2001, members met on a monthly basis under the co-leadership of Valerie Bell (Board President, FOCUS St. Louis) and Randy Adams (RCGA Executive Committee Member and currently the President and Executive Director of the Saint Louis Symphony Orchestra).
Over the summer, three subcommittees composed of RGPG members and local experts convened to address issues under the headings of Tax Policy & Governmental Structure, Healthcare, and Transportation.
The 15 recommendations included in this action plan are the results of these efforts. One of the recommendations includes the development of a nationally unique federation of business, government, and civic interests. FOCUS, RCGA and the East-West Gateway Coordinating Council are working to develop an implementation plan to create a "Metropolitan Forum" – a unique, virtual organization that will bring together the public, private, and civic sectors to work in partnership for a common regional agenda.