The Ben Broghammer show is rooted in facts, and is about our community, the issues, and sharing them with the people that they impact the most—you. Focusing on St. Louis politics, the show will dive into the impact local government and the decisions made on a state and federal level have on us here at home. This show talks about it all— always presenting the facts—unaltered, unfiltered, and unintimidated—allowing you to form your own opinions.
It’s Budget Season in St. Louis County: The Path Ahead
It’s budget season in St. Louis County. The reality today: A $99 million deficit, bankruptcy within sight, $1 billion in unfunded road and bridge liabilities, and filling the operating expenses gap with one time finite funds. In this episode, Ben discusses the current affairs of St. Louis County finances, and outlines the path ahead.
This is the Ben Broghammer Show. These are the facts.
LOCAL INVOLVEMENT IS VITAL!
Follow the show on Instagram @benbroghammershow
Following the show on X @benbroghammer
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music: The Ben Broghammer Show on all platforms.
“Just the Facts!”
Sources
https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/administration/fiscal-transparency/budgets/2027-recommended-budget/2027-recommended-business-plan1/ (https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/administration/fiscal-transparency/budgets/2027-recommended-budget/2027-recommended-business-plan1/)
https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/administration/fiscal-transparency/budgets/2027-recommended-budget/2027-recommended-budget-book1/ (https://stlouiscountymo.gov/st-louis-county-departments/administration/fiscal-transparency/budgets/2027-recommended-budget/2027-recommended-budget-book1/)
https://www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2026-10-01/pages-proposed-st-louis-county-budget-includes-cuts-and-pushes-dire-need-for-new-revenue
https://boxcast.tv/channel/wdeojvfau9uqc9qt6k8z
https://www.columbiamissourian.com/news/mayor-grant-will-prepare-fenton-auto-plant-for-new-use/article_23c2fe08-4e44-5082-8d5b-0a81f7ecbead.html
16 Oct 2026
Prop W: $9 Million Ask for a $5 Million Problem?
Why is the district asking for $9 million in an attempt to address a $5 million problem? The district compares this tax increase to coffee runs, when in reality, it means an 18% tax increase, before next year’s reassessment, and an 18% cost of living increase for our community. In this episode, Ben continues to present the facts surrounding the Webster Groves School District budget and financial issues, what Prop W really is, and what it will likely mean for our community. The small business impact, the household impact, the tax increase we are getting asked to pay without being presented sustainable solutions to solving the problems that landed us here in the first place. Prop W is likely the start of more and more to come, pushing prosperity in our community further and further away. Break through the headlines, the fear tactics, the recycled talking points, and learn what it really is and how it will impact you.
This is the Ben Broghammer Show. These are the facts.
LOCAL INVOLVEMENT IS VITAL!
Follow the show on Instagram @benbroghammershow
Following the show on X @benbroghammer
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music: The Ben Broghammer Show on all platforms.
“Just the Facts!”
Get your own “No On W” sign!
Template Link: https://canva.link/26zvod4gvv81l9l (https://canva.link/26zvod4gvv81l9l)
Sources
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nuo8cVLwLcU
https://www.webster.k12.mo.us/prop-w (https://www.webster.k12.mo.us/prop-w)
https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1790284755/websterk12mous/hlzlhtfozmwzolojnyzv/2026-27WGSDPreliminaryBudget1.pdf
https://graphics.stltoday.com/apps/payrolls/salaries_2025/teachers/96114/ (https://graphics.stltoday.com/apps/payrolls/salaries_2025/teachers/96114/)
4 Oct 2026
Prop W: The 18.51% Tax Increase
In this episode, Ben breaks down the proposed Webster Groves School District tax increase, known as Prop W, and looks beyond the often-repeated “65 cents” and coffee stops comparison to examine what Prop W could actually mean for home owners, families, and local businesses.
Using the district’s own calculator, Ben explains what a 18.51% increase in school district taxes could mean in real dollars for tax payers. He also explores the potential ripple effect on the local economy, including higher costs on small business, consumer prices, and the overall cost of living in Webster Groves.
This episode examines the district’s finances, raises questions about why a $9 million proposal is being presented to fill a $5.6 million deficit, the minimal spending reductions, declining enrollment, and further questions around accountability and transparency.
Ben also discusses recent concerns raised by school board members regarding state accessing to student assessment data and the district’s approach to reporting academic performance.
As election day approaches, one question remains, and should be asked by all of us: Can Webster Groves taxpayers afford another major tax increase and is this the right solution to the district’s financial challenges?
This is the Ben Broghammer Show. These are the facts.
LOCAL INVOLVEMENT IS VITAL!
Follow the show on Instagram @benbroghammershow
Following the show on X @benbroghammer
Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music: The Ben Broghammer Show on all platforms.
“Just the Facts!”
Sources
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJDfPJNifQY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJDfPJNifQY)
https://www.webster.k12.mo.us/prop-w (https://www.webster.k12.mo.us/prop-w)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Contact The Ben Broghammer Show
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of The Ben Broghammer Show?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
