Favazza files

Mariano Favazza, left, former St. Louis circuit clerk, answers questions Friday from Matt Potter Democratic deputy director of the St. Louis Board of Election Commissioners. The election will be held on March 8. Favazza filed for election for the 16th Ward alderman seat just before 5 p.m. so his name would appear last on the ballot. His opponents are incumbent Donna C. Baringer and August. J. Mantia. Favazza said he’s concerned about the underutilization of commercial property — particularly the commercial districts on Hampton, Chippewa and Watson in his ward. “If the business district falters, the residential areas nearby will follow,” he said. He also said officials should support city workers and be less generous with tax-increment financing. The man behind Favazza, who did not want to give his name, was told he was too late to file. Photo by Karen Elshout