Meet Eureka’s Alderman: Shannon Britt

Third Ward Alderman Shannon Britt is certainly a familiar face around town, whether he’s at a meeting at City Hall, working on a service project or at his job as community president of Eurekans can be excused for thinking he must have lived here all his life. In fact, as a resident for 13 years, and an officeholder for the last five, he’s the newest resident among the board and ranks only fourth in seniority of the city’s six aldermen.

When he’s not on duty, Britt can be seen cheering on his sons in their efforts. Older son Dillon is a member of the baseball team at , while younger son Mason, set the record for the 800 meter run in both fourth and fifth grades, while also playing baseball, basketball and soccer. His wife, Julie, is also an athlete and frequent participant in half-marathons throughout the area. 

That both his sons should choose baseball as a favorite sport strikes a particularly deep note with Britt. “Growing up in the bootheel of Missouri, my family didn’t get an opportunity to see very many Cardinal games,” he recalled. “But I remember coming to St. Louis as a 7-year old with my dad to see them play. It was camera day and I got to go on the field and take pictures of Bob Gibson and Lou Brock. They stopped and shook my hand and said hello. Great memory.” To this day, the Cardinals remain his favorite sports team.

In addition to sports, Britt shares another interest with his sons. Along with his favorite author, Dan Brown, “I know it is strange,” he admitted, “but I really enjoyed the Harry Potter series.”

And despite his relative “newness” in the community, Britt’s love for the area is as strong as anyone’s. He first ran for office “because I wanted to be involved in the community and make a difference,” he said. “Eurekans really care about their hometown.”