The City of Wildwood's Board of Public Safety meeting on August 7, 2025, focused on the implementation of an automatic warning system for emergencies, particularly concerning water levels and severe weather alerts.

During the meeting, officials discussed the capabilities of existing equipment, which can automatically trigger alerts based on sensor readings. For instance, if water levels in local creeks reach a certain threshold, devices such as gates and flashing lights would activate without human intervention. However, the discussion highlighted challenges regarding a comprehensive messaging system that would require human oversight to operate effectively.

Currently, the city has a basic opt-in messaging system that allows residents to receive notifications via email, particularly during significant weather events like tornadoes or heavy snowfall. This system has been utilized in the past to inform residents about major traffic disruptions and weather-related issues. However, officials noted that a more robust emergency messaging system, aligned with the standards of the St. Louis County Office of Emergency Management, would necessitate a dedicated staff member available around the clock.

Concerns were raised about the legal implications of such a system, particularly the liability associated with failing to send timely alerts during emergencies. The city currently employs 27 staff members, making it challenging to allocate resources for a full-time position dedicated to emergency notifications.

In conclusion, while the city is exploring ways to enhance its emergency communication capabilities, significant hurdles remain, including staffing and legal considerations. The Board of Public Safety will continue to evaluate options to improve public safety measures in Wildwood.