Creation
The Central West End South Special Business District (CWESBD) was created by a vote of the people in 1994 to enhance safety, security, and infrastructure within its boundaries. As part of its formation, voters approved a special property tax on residential and commercial properties in the district, with a maximum rate set at $0.85 per $100 of assessed value. However, due to Missouri’s Hancock Amendment, which limits revenue increases as property values rise, the effective tax rate has gradually decreased. In 2026, the district’s rate will be approximately $0.56 per $100 of assessed value.
Initiatives
The Central West End South Special Business District (SBDS) is committed to making safety and security the foundation of a thriving community. Our efforts center on reducing crime and enhancing public safety through strategic investments in improved street lighting, visible security patrols, and critical infrastructure upgrades.
Safety/Security
The Central West End South Special Business District places a strong emphasis on safety and security through targeted investments. The district funds off-duty police patrols that are strategically scheduled to align with the area’s busiest periods and times most vulnerable to crime, ensuring a visible and proactive presence. Additionally, the district has installed security cameras throughout the area, which have proven effective in both deterring crime and assisting law enforcement in identifying and apprehending offenders. Beyond patrols, the district supports a specialized outreach program in partnership with the Neighborhood Security Initiative to address homelessness. Through this program, a dedicated liaison works directly with unhoused individuals, connecting them to critical services and resources aimed at long-term support and stability.
Infrastructure/Maintenance
By maintaining clean, well-lit, and orderly public spaces—through regular waste removal, landscaping, and maintenance—we help create an environment that discourages crime and promotes a strong sense of security. A safe neighborhood invites residents, businesses, and visitors to engage confidently in the Central West End South, strengthening the district as a whole.