The City of Wildwood's Board of Adjustment convened on August 14, 2025, to address several petitions concerning zoning variances. The meeting, led by Chair Jared Frank, included board members Bob Morris, Kevin Lux, Arnie Sprunger, and alternate member Dave Bertolino. Planning staff present were Joe Vunich, director of planning, and planner Robin Keith, along with city attorney Sarah Rutherford and court reporter Courtney Tallman, who participated via Zoom.

Chair Frank opened the meeting by emphasizing the board's commitment to transparency and public participation, inviting testimony from all interested parties. He outlined the hearing procedures, noting that the meeting would be recorded for future reference and that petitions would be addressed in the order listed on the agenda.

The first item discussed was petition BA16-25, submitted by Drorie and Christina Taylor for their property at 11080 Matthews Lane. The petition requested an exception to specific guard requirements to construct a new deck, staircase, and lower flagstone base, supported by a new retaining wall. This construction would occur within the defined 100-year floodplain and would encroach upon the 50-foot setback from the floodplain boundary.

Following the presentation of the petition, the board allowed for public comments, where individuals could express support or opposition to the variance request. Each speaker was required to provide their name and address and was sworn in before giving their testimony.

The board's decision-making process was outlined, indicating that a minimum of four votes in favor would be necessary for the variance to be approved. If granted, the petitioners would have six months to obtain the necessary permits, or the approval would expire. Conversely, if the board denied the request, the petitioners could appeal the decision to the Saint Louis County Circuit Court within 30 days.

The meeting proceeded with the board's deliberation on the first petition, marking the beginning of a series of discussions on various zoning requests. The board's structured approach aimed to ensure that all voices were heard while adhering to the established procedural guidelines.