Donna Baringer: It’s Time For Change

By Donna Baringer

It’s Time for Change: Why I’m Running for Comptroller of St. Louis

I never planned to run for Comptroller for the City of St. Louis. For years, I’ve worked in public service, voicing concerns, advocating for change, and championing solutions to move our city forward. But after two years of raising alarms about questionable financial decisions and witnessing inaction from leadership, I realized I could no longer stand on the sidelines. It’s time to step up otherwise our city will be operating in crisis mode if not already.     

St. Louis is at a crossroads. Leadership has long been focused on maintaining control, but what we truly need is a focus on fiscal responsibility, transparency, and real progress. After countless conversations with residents, one consistent message rings true our city cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful change.

Transparency Must Be a Priority

As Comptroller, my top priority will be creating a culture of transparency. This is not just a buzzword—it’s a commitment to accountability and openness with the people of St. Louis.

Right now, basic safeguards like whistleblower protections, conflict-of-interest policies, and reporting mechanisms are not being followed. All employees and elected officials should be held to the highest standards. Currently, officials who accept gifts, travel, or food valued at over $500      are required to report it to the Register’s Office—a policy I will ensure is enforced Similarly, every contract the city enters will undergo a rigorous vetting process to ensure there are no financial conflicts of interest or overlapping loyalties, such as serving on related boards or commissions.

I will lead by example. As Comptroller, I will make it a priority to communicate directly with taxpayers, regularly reporting on the city’s financial health and any key decisions impacting      taxpayers’ monies. Accountability is non-negotiable, and I’ll ensure the Comptroller’s office operates with the integrity our city deserves.

Getting to Work on Day One

This is not a ceremonial campaign. I am running to do the work, and I’ll hit the ground running on day one. That means assembling a highly skilled team, working with experts in every department, and making sure the Comptroller’s office functions effectively and efficiently. We need to shine a light on what needs to change and take swift action to address it.

My track record speaks for itself. I’ve built a reputation for my strong work ethic, commitment to integrity, and ability to find practical solutions to complex problems. While others may cling to power, I’m running to serve the people of St. Louis and shape a stronger, more sustainable future for our city.

Progress isn’t possible without embracing change. And change is exactly what our city needs to move forward.

A Bold Vision for Progress

One of the bold changes I will champion as Comptroller is reorganizing how city departments function. For instance, the voters have approved a charter change establishing a new transportation department. As part of this progressive shift, I will advocate for moving the bus and train terminal out from under the Comptroller’s office and into the transportation department. This reorganization will ensure better oversight and improved services for residents.

Throughout my career, I’ve made it my mission to solve complex issues with practical, forward-thinking solutions. This change is just one example of the kind of leadership I will bring to the Comptroller’s office.

Experience That Matters

What sets me apart from other candidates is my diverse and extensive background in government and public service.

During my time as an alderwoman, I served on nearly every committee, gaining a deep understanding of how our city functions. I served on the Budget Committee, where I scrutinized department budgets, identified wasteful spending, and demanded accountability. In the Missouri House of Representatives, I learned from cities like Kansas City, which have successfully secured significant funding for local projects. I also served as the Ranking Minority Chair of Fiscal Review, further honing my expertise in financial oversight.

Beyond government, I’ve worked as a chief executive officer, executive director, development director, grant writer, community advocate, and engagement specialist. These experiences have given me a well-rounded perspective and strong relationships with elected officials, city employees, and community leaders—relationships I will rely on to ensure the fiscal health of St. Louis.

St. Louis Deserves Better

When residents ask me how someone can remain in office for 30 years without delivering meaningful results, my answer is simple: because no one has challenged them. Many people don’t fully understand what the Comptroller’s office does, and the lack of transparency has allowed poor leadership to go unchecked.

But the media has made it clear: the current Comptroller is not doing their job. Reports have highlighted issues such as absenteeism, late payments, and an overall lack of accountability. It is unacceptable for someone to collect a paycheck while failing to show up for work—especially when taxpayers and city employees bear the consequences of this neglect.

Let me be clear: I am not running for personal power or to simply hold an office. I am running to give the residents of St. Louis an independent voice, one that prioritizes their interests and holds our city’s leadership accountable. Our city cannot afford to wait any longer for meaningful change.

A New Era for St. Louis

This campaign is about more than just me. It’s about all of us—residents, taxpayers, and community leaders—working together to build a better St. Louis. It’s about creating a city where fiscal responsibility, transparency, and progress are more than ideals—they’re realities.

I am ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work. The time for waiting is over. The time for action is now.