The City of Wildwood's Board of Adjustment approved a variance request on August 14, 2025, allowing property owner Jory Taylor to proceed with construction plans for an uncovered deck at his residence on Sarah Matthews Lane. The board's decision came after a thorough review of Taylor's petition, which sought to extend the existing footprint of his home.

During the meeting, Taylor explained that the delay in his project was due to a change in plans from a four-season room to a simpler deck design. He expressed optimism about upcoming updates to flood maps, which are expected to eliminate the need for future variances. The Department of Planning supported Taylor's request, noting it posed less impact than a previous variance and complied with city floodplain standards, contingent upon meeting all construction requirements.

The board unanimously approved the variance, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the conditions set forth by the Department of Public Works during construction. This decision marks a significant step forward for Taylor, who can now move ahead with his home improvement project.

In addition to Taylor's request, the board also addressed a second petition from Jennifer Moseley, seeking an exception to minimum yard requirements for expanding her covered porch on Wilderness Trail. This request is currently under review, with the Department of Planning preparing to present its findings in the next meeting.

The outcomes of these discussions highlight the board's commitment to balancing community development with regulatory compliance, ensuring that property owners can enhance their homes while adhering to local zoning laws. As the city awaits updates on flood mapping, residents can anticipate further developments that may streamline future construction projects.