Who We Are
The Productive Living Board for St. Louis County Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (PLB) is a public organization created under Missouri’s Senate Bill 40, empowering counties to support residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Funded by a St. Louis County property tax, PLB partners with nonprofit agencies to help individuals with IDD live, work, and thrive in the community. We are committed to using public funds responsibly and adapting to the changing needs of those we serve.
Our Mission
PLB funds quality services, fosters collaboration, and drives innovation to create opportunities for
people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in St. Louis County.
Our Vision
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are empowered to live the lives they choose.
Our Commitment to St. Louis County Residents
In 1979, St. Louis County voters approved a property tax to fund services for individuals with developmental disabilities, leading to the creation of PLB. Today, this tax—set at 8.8 cents per $100 of assessed property value—generates about $28 million annually. These funds help more than 4,600 individuals and families each year through partnerships with local agencies offering job training, independent living support, therapy, family support, and more.
PLB is governed by a nine-member volunteer board appointed by the County Executive and approved by the County Council. Together with the Executive Director and staff, the Board ensures that PLB continues to operate with transparency, accountability, and a focus on the community’s evolving needs.
Our History
PLB was created by taxpayers in 1979, when options for people with developmental disabilities were more limited than today but expectations for inclusive opportunities were growing.