Webster Groves: two FEMA buyouts torn down, city to demolish additional flood‑damaged homes; park planning to follow

Council member Ethan (first name used in the meeting) updated commissioners on the city’s handling of several homes damaged by repeated flooding near Deer Creek Park.

Ethan said two FEMA buyout houses have been torn down; a second FEMA contract was recently finalized and its demolition is scheduled. Four additional houses received significant (but not repetitive) damage; the city agreed to pay for demolition of those houses because they are not livable but will not take ownership of the properties in all cases. Ethan said there are no current plans to build on the lots the city takes ownership of because FEMA restrictions prevent development on acquired buyout properties.

Ethan said the city has a longer‑term policy question about Deer Creek Park: maintaining playing fields in an area subject to repeated flooding may not be sustainable, and the parks department will prepare recommendations for plantings, stormwater‑retention features and possible field capacity options. Ethan referenced the council’s recent stormwater report and the large, multi‑year funding need it identifies. “I don't know, $2,524,000,000 dollars that we're gonna be looking for if we could do it all today,” he said while noting the figure covers a 20‑year program of projects and funding strategies will be needed.

Ending: City staff and the parks department will develop recommendations on long‑term park use and stormwater treatments for council consideration.