ST. LOUIS • The proposed merger of St. Louis and St. Louis County economic development efforts advanced Wednesday when the city's Housing, Urban Development, and Zoning committee recommended its passage to the Board of Aldermen. Â
Business and political leaders said the proposal will provide a unified voice and allow the region to better attract, retain and expand businesses. Many have expressed frustration that the city and county often compete against each other for economic gains, instead of working together. Â
The new combined effort would be based in Clayton. Â
"There is broad and strong support within the St. Louis regional business community for enhanced partnership and coordination between city and county, particularly in the areas of job creation and economic development," 13th Ward Alderman Fred Wessels wrote in proposed legislation. Â
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The aldermanic committee voted 4-3 in favor. Â Aldermen Wessels, Larry Arnowitz, Marlene Davis, and Jennifer Florida voted yes. Â Aldermen Antonio French, Terry Kennedy, and Chris Carter voted no. Â
The proposal will now go before the full Board of Aldermen. Â
The county is considering similar legislation.  Both Mayor Francis Slay and County Executive Charlie Dooley have championed the project.  Under the proposal, the St. Louis County Economic Council would change its name to St. Louis Economic Development Partnership. Ten employees of the city’s St. Louis Development Corp. would move to the new agency and would be given a $1 million annual commitment.Â
The merger, if approved by both sides, would go into effect on July 1. Â