Great Rivers Environmental Law Center

“The 990 draft was emailed to all board members for review. Each was requested to respond within the comment period with either an approval or with additions/revisions. Responses were then summarized and any changes forwarded to the tax return preparer for inclusion in the final version of the return.”

“Each board member and member of a committee with governing board-delegated powers annually signs a statement which affirms that the person: a. Has received a copy of the conflict of interest policy; b. Has read and understands the policy; c. Has agreed to comply with the policy; and d. Understands the Organization is a charitable one and, in order to maintain its federal tax exemption, it must engage primarily in activities which accomplish one or more of its tax-exempt purposes. In addition, every time the board discusses whether or not to accept a new case,the board members must disclose any interests that might give rise to a conflict.”

“During 2024 there were five attorneys who worked for Great Rivers. Bruce Morrison was general counsel. The other four were staff attorneys. The board members compare the salaries of the attorneys annually to similar positions in the St. Louis area and confirm that the attorneys chose to have lower salaries than the going rate for attorneys with their experience in small firms and with a specialized practice of environmental protection so more funds can be used for the program.”

“The management staff periodically reviews compensation of support staff in similar not-for-profits in the St. Louis area to make sure its staff salaries/wages are comparable.”

“Great Rivers makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, audited financial statements, and 990s available to the public upon request. The audited statements and 990s are on its website. The 990s and other information can also be found on the Candid (formerly Guidestar) website.”

“Same as description for Pt. VI, line 18”

“Pt. XII, line 2a and 2c - The executive committee is responsible for monitoring the accounting processes and selecting who provides the accounting and auditing for the organization. The organization obtains an audit every other year. In the off years our CPA provides preparation engagement statements which are comparable to compiled statements. She completes a thorough review of the accounting transactions each year and consults with staff during the year about accounting and other business issues. She prepares our 990s.”

“Pt. VIII, line 8c - On occasion there is a loss (fair market value of tickets and event revenue other than contributions less the total costs) on line 8 due to several reasons. Expenses for postage and printing of invitations and programs, costs of awards given, and other expenses are not part of the FMV of the ticket price so become expenses not offset by revenue on line 8 (after deducting the contribution portions.) Another reason is that its sometimes difficult to determine the FMV of a ticket. If the contributions from the event on line 1c of Pt. VIII are included with event revenue on line 8, the sponsorships, general contributions, and ticket prices in excess of FMV more than make up for the loss.”

“Description for Pt. III, line 4a - Statement of Program Accomplishments - In 2024, Great Rivers Environmental Law Center advanced its mission to provide free and low-cost legal services to protect the environment and public health across Missouri and Southern Illinois. Our legal advocacy, representation, and community partnerships resulted in major accomplishments in the areas of clean water, clean air, environmental justice, and land protection. PROTECTING CLEAN WATER - Secured a landmark settlement improving oversight of Pond Creek Mines discharges into tributaries of Illinois Big Muddy River. The agreement imposed stronger pollution limits, real-time monitoring, and third-party oversight to safeguard water quality and aquatic life. Advocated for communities facing unsafe drinking water, including nitrate contamination in Clark Countys public drinking water supply. Represented residents in Howell County to push for stronger stormwater protections against a proposed quarry threatening the Eleven Point River. DEFENDING CLEAN AIR AND ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE - Opposed harmful air pollution permits, including through interventions before the Missouri Public Service Commission on Amerens Integrated Resource Plan, pressing for renewable energy instead of expanded fossil fuel reliance. Continued to defend environmental justice protections under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, working with community partners to ensure that low-income and minority neighborhoods are not disproportionately burdened by industrial pollution. LAND USE AND COMMUNITY ADVOCACY - Helped residents in North St. Louis County address nuisance properties and unsafe neighborhood conditions, using legal advocacy to restore community health and safety. Represented homeowners facing threats to their native pollinator gardens, securing dismissals of county citations and defending sustainable landscaping choices. Partnered with residents and nonprofits to protect public parks and natural spaces, including opposing erosion and reckless development near the Osage River and Lake of the Ozarks. ORGANIZATIONAL GROWTH AND IMPACT - Welcomed attorney Caitlin Stiltner to our staff and mentored 11 law interns, expanding our legal capacity to take on more cases. Supported the launch of Show Me Stormwater Solutions, a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting stormwater education and best practices in Illinois. Celebrated community leaders at the Lewis C. Green Environmental Awards Celebration, honoring Jean Ponzi and Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum for their commitment to environmental stewardship. Through these efforts, Great Rivers Environmental Law Center achieved meaningful victories for the environment and the communities we serve. Our work in 2024 reflects a steadfast commitment to protecting natural resources, defending public health, and advancing environmental justice for future generations.”