Dardenne Prairie board asks attorney to research whether city can require insurers to ‘match’ storm repairs

At a Dardenne Prairie Board of Aldermen work session, the board voted to ask the city attorney to research whether the city can require insurance companies to replace matching siding and roofing after storm damage.

Alderman Waters described widespread homeowner confusion after the May 16 storms and quoted subdivision indentures that ‘the lot owners shall proceed promptly to repair or reconstruct the damaged structure in a manner consistent with the original construction.’ He said many residents receive partial settlements — "one side of the house" or "half a roof" — that leave mismatched siding or roofing and no clear local standard to cite when negotiating with insurers.

City Attorney Brad cautioned that state law regulates insurance companies. "Insurance companies are regulated at the state level," he said, and noted that Dardenne Prairie’s status as a fourth-class city can limit municipal authority compared with charter cities such as Florissant. Brad recommended legal research before drafting any ordinance.

Alderman Johnson moved — and Alderman Wilson seconded — that the city attorney examine whether the city has enforceable means to require matching repairs and whether any statutory authority under the fourth-class city framework would allow such an ordinance. The motion passed on an 'aye' vote with no opposition heard; the attorney was directed to report back to the board.

Board members said the inquiry is intended to clarify whether local action could meaningfully help homeowners without creating unintended burdens that shift costs to residents. If legal counsel finds a path forward, the board said it would return for an in-depth discussion about ordinance language and implementation.

Next steps: the city attorney will research statutory authority and any comparable municipal enforcement models and present findings to the board for consideration.