City Council - Regular Meetings
Regular MeetingWebster Groves, MO · April 1, 2025
Minutes
Exhitbit 1
Conditional Use Permit 25-PC-02
(8772 Big Bend Rd.)
City staff presentation, Tuesday, April 1st, 2025
Exhibit 1
Application Summary
• Applicant:
• Betty and Matt Bayer (Webster Groves residents)
• Book store with coffee shop and event space
• Moving from current space at 10 Summit (at
Lockwood)
• Address:
• 8772 Big Bend (Crossroads retail district).
• Plan Commission:
• Approved with Conditions
City of WEBSTER GROVES 2
Exhibit 1
Land Use and Zoning
Current Zoning:
“PC”
Planned Commercial District
Surrounding Zoning:
“C” Commercial and “PC”
planned Commercial
Districts
City of WEBSTER GROVES 3
Exhibit 1
Current Request
• The applicant is seeking to open a bookstore with coffee shop and
event space
• The use is unchanged from the Applicant’s current space at 10 Summit
Avenue; the Applicant is moving to expand their operations.
• The current zoning for the property is Planned Commercial “PC”.
• City Ordinance 9222, passed on April 18th, 2023, requires all parcels
on the south side of the 8700 block of Big Bend to be considered as
“D” commercial for purposes of evaluating potential uses.
• Book stores are permitted by right in “D” commercial, and coffee
shops and event spaces are Conditional Uses.
• Plan Commission reviewed this Application on March 3rd and
recommended Approval.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 4
Exhibit 1
History of Site
Land Use and Zoning History of Subject Site
• 1923; all the subject properties were zoned Industrial.
• 1930; the subject properties had two zoning classifications:
• The northern half fronting Big Bend Boulevard was zoned “C” Commercial.
• The southern half fronting what is now the vacated Union Ave. was zoned “E”
Industrial.
• 1993; the area located on the former lot for 8780 Big Bend Boulevard was rezoned
from “E” Industrial to “C” Commercial.
• 1999; the City rezoned all the subject properties. The proposal was to undertake the
following:
• Vacate Union Avenue;
• Develop a public parking lot behind 8730 through 8778 Big Bend Blvd.;
• Build a new building at 8780 Big Bend Blvd. brought up to the street; build a
new building and parking lot at 8720 Big Bend Blvd. with a landscaped plaza on
the corner at Elm Avenue.
Comprehensive Plan Analysis
The Comprehensive Plan identifies the subject site as being within an area designated as
commercial in interest. The current Development Foundation Plan (DFP) maps adopted in
2006 also identify the area as commercial. The proposed uses: Banquet facility, Coffee
Shop, and Bookstore, are consistent with the commercial use designation identified.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 5
Exhibit 1
Site Layout
City of WEBSTER GROVES 6
Exhibit 1
Plan Commission
1.Parking: The Plan Commission expressed some concern about
parking. However, their key issue parking availability for all users of
public parking in the District, and not specifically this use, and
Commissioners made it clear that they did not want to single out this
Applicant for a district-wide issue not of their making.
1. One neighboring property owner and one neighboring
business owner also expressed concerns about parking.
2.Traffic: While traffic in the vicinity of Elm and Big Bend is a long-
term concern, this particular use should not appreciably increase the
number of vehicles.
3.Uses: There should not be any issues with this use.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 7
Exhibit 1
CUP Conditions
1. All provisions of the City Code and Ordinance No. 9222 shall apply except as
expressly modified in this Ordinance No. ______
2. The approved use shall be a book store/coffee shop with event space. (book
store is permitted use by right)
3. Hours of operation shall be limited to 9 AM to 5 PM (bookstore), and 9 AM to 8:30
PM (event space) daily.
4. Section 53.144 “D” Performance Standards shall be followed.
5. The business owners shall be responsible for all pick-up of litter and trash
related to their business and the above approved uses on the property, and
neighboring properties, on a daily basis. The area immediately around the
buildings dumpster(s) shall at all times be free of trash, debris, and oil waste,
with all trash and waste being placed inside the appropriate dumpsters in
appropriate containers.
6. This conditional use permit shall be personal to the applicant and shall not run
with the land.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 8
Exhibit 2
EXHIBIT LIST ORDINANCE #9278 – BETTY’S BOOKS
Plan Commission staff report by Joel Pugh, City Planner for meeting
date March 3rd, 2025, and applicable Plan Commission meeting
minutes.
Application from Betty and Matt Bayer (Betty’s Books)
Submitted Plans
Planned Commercial “PC” Ordinance No. 9222
PowerPoint before the City Council on April 1, 2025
The Zoning Code
Exhibit 3
Conditional Use Permit 25-PC-03
(45 West Lockwood)
City staff presentation, Tuesday, April 1st, 2025
Exhibit 3
Application Summary
• Applicant:
• Webster Groves Presbyterian Church)
• Banquet facility
• Renovating existing space to rent to outside groups
• Address:
• 45 West Lockwood (Old Webster retail district).
• Plan Commission:
• Approved with Conditions
City of WEBSTER GROVES 2
Exhibit 3
Site History
• 1867- Webster Groves Presbyterian Church established
• 1923- Zoned “E” Industrial District and “D” Commercial District
• 1956- Zoned “D” Commercial District
• 1959 & 1961, Special Use Permits to reconstruct and expand facilities
• Since 1962, the church has operated daycare and early childhood care facilities at
the subject property.
• 2021 – CUP for Educational Facility, School for the Arts for other classroom spaces
• 2023 – CUP for Educational Facility, School for the Arts for other classroom spaces
City of WEBSTER GROVES 3
Exhibit 3
Land Use and Zoning
Current Zoning:
“PC”
Planned Commercial District
Surrounding Zoning:
“D” Commercial ,“PC”
Planned Commercial, and
“A4” Residential Districts
City of WEBSTER GROVES 4
Exhibit 3
Current Request
• The applicant is seeking to renovate and reopen a banquet/event
space, which would then be rented out for events not affiliated with
the church.
• The facility will not change; the Applicant is proposing to add
bathrooms and other internal changes in order to rent it out for
non-church functions.
• The current zoning for the property is “D” Commercial
• Event spaces are Conditional Uses in this Zoning District.
• Plan Commission reviewed this Application on March 3rd and
recommended Approval.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 5
Exhibit 3
Site Layout
City of WEBSTER GROVES 6
Exhibit 3
Analysis
Plan Commission
1. Parking: The Plan Commission expressed some concern about parking. The
Code requires 104 parking spaces be available for this Use; the Applicant has 90
private off-street spaces, and there are 14 more on-street spaces in front of the
building on Lockwood and Moody Avenues.
1. The Commission expressed concern about how parking would be affected if
all venues in the building were operating at peak capacity at the same time.
2. Traffic: Although there is potential for impact to traffic at Lockwood and Elm if all
venues in the building were operating at full occupancy, the fact that they are all
currently in use means that the impact will not be significantly greater with this CUP.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 7
Exhibit 3
Comprehensive Plan Analysis
In 2017, the City incorporated the 2006 DFP maps into a consolidated
Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment
The 2017 Comprehensive Plan Map Amendment recommended
Religious Institutions for the subject property.
The proposed request is not to change the zoning of the property but
rather to get approval of a conditional use within the existing zoning
district. The purpose of the new CUP is to permit outside organizations
to use the facility in the same manner it is currently being utilized. Staff
feels this remains in compliance with the existing Comprehensive Plan as
no change of zoning is proposed, and the Church will remain owner and
primary user of the building.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 8
Exhibit 3
CUP Conditions
1. All provisions of the City Code shall apply except as expressly modified in this Ordinance
No. _____
2. The approved use shall be an event space.
3. Hours of operation shall be limited to:
a) Mon. – Fri: 7 Am – 10 PM
b) Saturday: 10 Am – 11 PM
c) Sunday: 12 PM – 10 PM.
4. The business owners shall be responsible for all pick-up of litter and Banquet Facility
related trash on the property, and neighboring properties, on a daily basis. The area
immediately around the property dumpster(s) shall at all times be free of trash, debris, and
oil waste, with all trash and waste being placed inside the appropriate dumpsters in
appropriate containers.
5. The "D" Commercial District Dimensional Regulations shall apply to all uses.
6. This conditional use permit shall be personal to the applicant and shall not run with the
land.
City of WEBSTER GROVES 9
Exhibit 4
EXHIBIT LIST ORDINANCE #9279 – WG PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Plan Commission staff report by Joel Pugh, City Planner for meeting
date March 3rd, 2025, and applicable Plan Commission meeting
minutes
Application and Written Statement from The Webster Groves
Presbyterian Church
Submitted Plans
Expected Occupancy Letter
PowerPoint before the City Council April 1st, 2025
The Zoning Code
Exhibit 5
From: Dave Buck
To: citycouncil; Arnold, Laura; Bliss, Pam; Alexander, Karen; Hixson Shepherd, Emily; Hasemeier, Jamie; Franklin,
David; Smith, Emerson; Peoples, Marie; njbatty@aol.com; Nakazono, Katie; Rangel, Karen; Tyler, Renee; Davis,
Scott; Donovan, Gregory; Thomas, Tiara; Boyd, James; Alpaslan, Sinan; Ellis, Brett; Bainter, Gary; Acevez,
Vincent; Weimer, Erich; Jeff Smith; John Hickey; Ben E; Clark Hotaling; Janice & Steve Seele; ccoyne@stlcc.edu;
Lexie O"Brien
Cc: Gerry Welch; Kathy Hart; Toni Hunt; Jeanne Kirkton; Sebastian Bellomo; Bill Newhouse; Hannah Bader; Josh
Bloom; Scott Freres; Jaime Mowers; Kevin Murphy; Brandi Schubert; Jacob Myers; John Simpson; Allen Todd;
Shane Williamson
Subject: Dave Buck"s "Remarks from the Community and Visitors" in the WG City Council Regular Meeting, Tuesday, April
1, 2025
Date: Tuesday, April 1, 2025 6:56:50 AM
Caution: This is an External Message - Please be cautious when opening links or
attachments
To City Council, Staff & Current Board & Commission
Leadership,
In the event that I cannot make the City Council meeting
this evening and deliver my remarks verbally in-person,
below is what I would say if I could attend.
“I applaud City Council & Staff for your work session this
evening to begin the process of learning about next fiscal
year’s recommended plans and budgets for the city’s
existing 16 active, standing boards and commissions (the
Charter Review Advisory Board and TIF Commission are
temporary or enacted only when needed).
But a major opportunity is being missed, in my mind -
which is the consideration of adding NEW & NEEDED
boards for the good of the community! This was not a
priority area of focus for the Charter Advisory Review
Board, plus it is not a consideration in the city’s Strategic
Plan, the Comprehensive Plan work-to-date, or in the
Exhibit 5
September 2024 Boards & Commissions Member
Handbook.
But, in my humble and imperfect opinion, it SHOULD be
of very high interest to City Council, given that the
proposed Amendment 2 on next week’s April 8 ballot, if
passed, will establish “public engagement” as an on-
going and essential part of City governance.
Thus, here are FOUR new, specific, publically engaged &
resident-led advisory boards that have been advocated
for on and off by others and me for a number of years:
1. A Citizen’s Finance Advisory Board. This takes
nothing away from the past and current knowledge and
abilities of the likes of Joann Jadal, Eric Peterson or
Greg Donovan. But it acknowledges that Webster has
some very sharp & smart financial people in our town
who can lend the benefit of their considerable &
collective knowledge, experience and advice that
could possibly help lead to different and better
financial strategies, budgets and decisions. The City of
Kirkwood, the WG School Board & Central
Administration, and even the WG Library have
benefited from such boards for years.
Exhibit 5
2. A Human Rights / DEI Advisory Board. DEI, human
rights and social justice is under massive attack given
the Trump administration, so establishing this board is
not just a nice idea, it is imperative that Webster stand
up, speak up and act up as one united community for
the timeless & universal values, respect and
acceptance of all kinds of diversity, equity and
inclusion.
Non-Whites currently make up 15% of Webster’s total
population and the future growth of racial minorities is
a major national megatrend.
Three years ago, in 2022, outside experts, Hicks-
Carter-Hicks, recommended the establishment of a
DEI Council but, to my imperfect awareness &
knowledge, nothing yet has been done. But I do know
that Kirkwood has such a board, as does the Webster
Groves School District, led by its full-time Director of
DEI, Shane Williamson.
3. A Youth Advisory Board of 18 years and under
Webster youth (high school students). These kids
belong to Generation Z and possess different values
and world views than we older adults do of different
earlier generations.
Exhibit 5
Kids are the most creative human beings on the planet
and, in Webster Groves, kids 18 and under represent
over 20% of Webster’s total population. Yet, even on
the final, big Prop W community survey, where kids
are some of the biggest users of our parks &
recreation activites, kids 18 and under represented
just 7 of 603 total responses, or only 1%!!! Kirkwood
has a Youth Advisory Board comprised at all times of
10 high school students. The School Board has
Student Advisors. Once and for all, our kids DESERVE
a seat at the city’s table and given a sought-after voice
that is respected and listened to.
4. A Peacemaker Advisory Board. Its sole purpose and
reason for being is for fellow, trusted residents to serve
our community as objective and independent
mediators to help opposing parties sit down together
to positively, openly, honestly and respectfully
confront and resolve different community conflicts,
divisions and controversies and reach a mutually
agreeable and beneficial WIN-WIN peaceful solution
or compromise that both sides can defend, live with
and support.
Final note: conceptually, all of these four new advisory
boards can be conducted without needing a budget or one
Exhibit 5
cent from the city. In short, their sound advice is FREE!!!!
That’s it. Hope this helps. Peace. Thank YOU.”
Exhibit 6
ECDC
Talking Points
Exhibit 6
Background & Previous & Ongoing
Concerns
The East Central Dispatch Center (ECDC) was established in 2002 to dispatch fire and police
emergency services for member cities.
Founding Members: Clayton, Maplewood, Richmond Heights, Shrewsbury, and Webster Groves.
Additional Members: Olivette (2005), Brentwood and Rock Hill (2014).
Rising Costs of Membership:
Approximately 49% increase in costs between FY15 and FY25.
Approximately 20% increase in costs from FY20 to FY25.
FY25 Cost for Webster Groves: $545,058.
Billing model incentivizes officers to minimize community interactions by focusing on “calls for
service,” without accounting for dispatcher workload.
Lack of long-term planning for alternative staffing or billing models.
Exploration of alternative staffing models, such as “Call Takers” and “Power Shifts,” was
encouraged but resulted in no meaningful action.
Exhibit 6
Background & Previous & Ongoing
Concerns
% Change
% Change from
Fiscal Year Cost ($)
Previous Year from
Fiscal Year Cost ($)
Previous
FY 15 367,008 -
FY 16 351,468 -4.23% Year
FY 17 396,645 12.85%
FY 20 453,080 -
FY 18 436,988 10.16%
FY 19 412,339 -5.64% FY 21 500,789 10.54%
FY 20 453,080 9.87% FY 22 518,193 3.47%
FY 21 500,789 10.54% FY 23 514,425 -0.73%
FY 22 518,193 3.47% FY 24 545,092 5.96%
FY 23 514,425 -0.73%
FY 24 545,092 5.96% FY 25 545,058 -0.01%
FY 25 545,058 -0.01% Total (FY 20–FY
545,058 20.32%
Total (FY 15–FY 25) 545,058 48.51% 25)
Exhibit 6
Actions Taken by Webster Groves &
New Concerns
January 2021: Raised concerns regarding fiscal sustainability and operations.
Proposed alternative staffing models and new billing methodologies.
Invited former Director Jokerst to present strategies for cost containment. At the time, operational
concerns had not yet surfaced.
New Concerns:
Poorly executed rollout of the CAD system has led to suboptimal fire dispatching.
These issues have been raised repeatedly through the Fire Operations Committee and Board of
Directors over the past two years, with little progress or urgency shown to resolve them.
Two of the eight member cities, Shrewsbury and Rockhill, have exited ECDC.
Costs continue to escalate, with no demonstrated urgency to address or resolve key issues.
Widespread safety concerns due to CAD-related challenges and loss of confidence in ECDC’s
functionality. Our residents deserve better.
Exhibit 6
Recent Efforts for Improvement
Position Freezes: Two hard-to-fill positions will be frozen, along with a reduction in special project
spending, to offset lost revenue from Rock Hill's departure. This will not impact service levels but
may lead to increased overtime to maintain minimum staffing.
Operational Study: An RFP will be issued for a third-party operational study, estimated at $50,000,
to identify efficiency improvements and cost savings.
APCO Staffing Analysis: The Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) will
conduct an updated staffing analysis at a nominal cost of $100.
Service Model Flexibility: The ECDC Board will discuss the feasibility of allowing member cities to
choose whether ECDC dispatches only fire, only police, or both, instead of requiring both services
to be dispatched together.
Exhibit 6
There are 3 Critical Areas of Concern
1. Liability
a. Premier One CAD is built for PD, not FD’s
i. St. Louis county Fire Ground Safety Initiatives (FGSI’s) SOG’s & Resource Typing
b. Immediate Life Threats and Resource Allocation
2. Dependability/Reliability
a. Address Routing- We have created “work arounds” and default to Apple Maps
b. Provisioning
c. Large Scale Event Support
3. Interoperability
a. CAD to CAD Interaction
i. We should be able to depend on the Apps and Software connected to Premier One,
especially at the premium at which it costs.
b. Auto Aid/Mutual Aid Units- Failure to Show Auto Aid Units on Devices
i. Premier One is unable to see non-ECDC Units on the interfaces we use for response.
1. Fire Ground Accountability=Safety Concerns
Exhibit 6
Central County Dispatch
Recommendation for WGFD
Recommendation: Move WGFD to a Fire/EMS based Dispatch Center with Central County Dispatch
Central County Dispatch:
Central County has “in-house” techs, GIS/Mapping, and IT dept. and is exclusive to Fire/EMS
Central County provides devices for all front-line emergency vehicles and docking stations in reserve
units
CCD uses Central Square CAD
Cost based on Property valuation: $318,209 (fixed rate for 5-year term) and CCD is open to prorating the
amount for this year.
Reduces Ops budget by approximately $16k (FSA Boxes/Optic Line + iPads)
FD ECDC allocated amount $60k for FD (FY 23/24)
How soon could CCD absorb WGFD?
Up to 90 days, more likely 60 days.
Approximate $242k to move to Central County ($318k-$60k-16K= $242k)
Agenda
Please note, residents can share comments in-person, virtually via Zoom using the
“Raise Hand” option, during the Regular Meeting, via email or U.S. mail. Written
comments will not be read aloud at the meetings. All speakers will be allowed three
minutes. Instructions on listening through phone or computer to the meetings are
available at www.webstergrovesmo.gov/568/Virtual-Meeting-Instructions.
CITY OF WEBSTER GROVES
COUNCIL WORK SESSION AGENDA
DATE: TUESDAY – APRIL 1, 2025
6:00 P.M.
LOCATION – CITY HALL
#4 E. LOCKWOOD AVENUE
IN-PERSON
AND VIRTUALLY
1. BOARD AND COMMISSION INTERVIEWS
2. REVIEW REGULAR AGENDA
3. MAYOR/COUNCIL/CITY MANAGER ISSUES/MEETING UPDATES
4. TOPIC:
• Board and Commission Annual Reports
5. APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS/COMMISSIONS
6. EXECUTIVE (CLOSED SESSION)
RE: 1. ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED COMMUNICATIONS
[MO. STATUTE 610.021 (1)]
2. REAL ESTATE [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (2)]
3. PERSONNEL [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (3)]
4. NEGOTIATED CONTRACT [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (12)]
7. ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF WEBSTER GROVES
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DATE: TUESDAY – APRIL 1, 2025
7:30 P.M.
LOCATION–CITY HALL-#4 E. LOCKWOOD
IN-PERSON
AND VIRTUALLY
Please note, residents can share comments in-person, virtually via Zoom, using the
“Raise Hand” option, via email or U.S. mail. Written comments will not be read aloud at
the meetings. All speakers will be allowed three minutes. Instructions on listening through
phone/computer to meetings available at:
www.webstergrovesmo.gov/568/Virtual-Meeting-Instructions
Welcome to the regular meeting of the City Council. We welcome questions, ideas and
comments from persons in attendance. Members of the audience may, however,
comment only when recognized by the Mayor or Mayor ProTem if the Mayor is
absent. We ask that comments be limited to three minutes in order to complete the
agenda within a reasonable time. Comments concerning items not on the agenda should
be made during the Remarks of Visitors section of the agenda, near the beginning of the
meeting.
I. ROLL CALL
II. PROCLAMATION
- Honoring Battalion Chief George Sullivan
III. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. 8772 Big Bend Blvd (Crossroads Business District): An Application by Betty
Bayer for a Conditional Use Permit to Operate a Banquet Facility Use and a
Coffee Shop Use in an Existing Multi-tenant Planned Commercial District
• Bill #9278 - First & Second Reading – An Ordinance Granting a Conditional
Use Permit to Betty and Matt Bayer (Betty’s Books) to Allow a Banquet Facility
and Coffee Shop Uses on an Approximately 05-Acre Tract of Land in an Existing
Structure Located at 8772 Big Bend Blvd. in a “PC” Planned Commercial District
and Matters Related Thereto
2. 45 W. Lockwood (Old Webster Business District): An Application by the
Webster Groves Presbyterian Church for a Conditional Use Permit to Operate a
Banquet Facility Use in the Church Located on a Parcel in the “D” Commercial
District
• Bill #9279 – First & Second Reading – An Ordinance Granting a Conditional
Use Permit to the Webster Groves Presbyterian Church to Allow a Banquet
Facility Use on an Approximately 1.67-Acre Tract of Land in an Existing Structure
at 45 W. Lockwood Ave. in the “D” Commercial District and Matters Related
Thereto
IV. PRESENTATION
- Presentation by St. Louis County Executive’s Office - Re: Projects
V. REMARKS FROM THE COMMUNITY AND VISITORS
VI. NEW BUSINESS - MAYOR, COUNCILMEMBERS, CITY ATTORNEY,
CITY MANAGER
VII. NEW BUSINESS
1. Resolution #2025-15 – A Resolution Authorizing the City of Webster Groves,
Missouri, to Withdraw Its Membership and Terminate Its Agreement with the East
Central Dispatch Center (ECDC) for the Fire and Police Dispatch Services
2. Resolution #2025-16 – A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Webster
Groves, Missouri Declaring Support for the Preservation of the Federal Tax
Exemption of Municipal Bonds
VIII. APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Minutes – March 18, 2025
IX. APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
X. EXECUTIVE (CLOSED SESSION)
RE: 1. ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGED COMMUNICATIONS
[MO. STATUTE 610.021 (1)]
2. REAL ESTATE [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (2)]
3. PERSONNEL [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (3)]
4. NEGOTIATED CONTRACT [MO. STATUTE 610.021 (12)]
XI. ADJOURNMENT
Individuals who require an accommodation (sign language, interpreter, listening
devices, etc.) to participate in the meeting should contact the City Clerk at 314-963-
5318 (fax number 314-963-7561) or Relay Missouri at 1-800-735-2966 (TDD) at least
two working days prior to the meeting.
NEXT REGULAR MEETING DATE: TUESDAY – APRIL 15, 2025
PLEASE NOTE: AUGUST 5, 2025 COUNCIL MEETING IS CANCELED
BILL #9278
ORDINANCE #9278
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
TO BETTY AND MATT BAYER (BETTY’S BOOKS)
TO ALLOW A BANQUET FACILITY
AND COFFEE SHOP USES ON AN APPROXIMATELY
.05-ACRE TRACT OF LAND IN AN EXISTING STRUCTURE LOCATED AT
8772 BIG BEND BOULEVARD IN A “PC” PLANNED COMMERCIAL
DISTRICT AND MATTERS RELATED THERETO
WHEREAS, the Zoning Code of Webster Groves provides the City Council may, by
conditional use permit issued under the provisions of Section 53.282 and 53.159, authorize the use
of property in the “PC” Planned Commercial District for a “Banquet Facility” and “Coffee Shop.”
WHEREAS, the property located at 8772 Big Bend Boulevard (the “Property”) was used
for mixed commercial and office purposes most recently; and
WHEREAS, Betty and Matt Bayer (Betty’s Books) (the “Applicant”), is requesting a
Conditional Use Permit to utilize the existing structure for various events which would fall under
a banquet facility use and a Coffee Shop within a “PC” Planned Commercial District (the
“Application”); and
WHEREAS, the Application was referred to the City Plan Commission, which, after
studying the Application and the recommendation of the City Planner, and holding a public hearing
on March 3, 2025, has recommended approval of the Application subject to certain conditions;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council gave due notice and held a public hearing on the Application
at City Hall on April 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., where the Council heard and considered comments and
suggestions by those present; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined, in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 53.170 et seq. of the Zoning Code, that granting the Applicant’s Conditional Use Permit
will not:
1. Substantially increase traffic hazards or congestion;
2. Substantially increase fire hazards;
3. Adversely affect the character of the neighborhood;
4. Adversely affect the general welfare of the community; or
5. Overtax public utilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEBSTER GROVES:
Section 1. The City Council hereby approves a Conditional Use Permit to Applicant
to operate a banquet facility within an existing structure on an approximately .05 acre tract of land
at 8772 Big Bend Boulevard within the “PC” Planned Commercial District, subject to the
following conditions:
1. All provisions of the City Code and Ordinance No. 9222 shall apply except as expressly
modified in this Ordinance No. ______
2. The approved use shall be for a Banquet Facility, Coffee Shop, and Retail Book Store with
office space.
3. Hours of operation for the coffee shop and retail bookstore between the hours of 9am until
5pm. Hours of Operation for the banquet facility (event space) between the hours of 9am
until 8:30pm.
4. Section 53.144 “D” Performance Standards shall be followed.
5. The business owners shall be responsible for all pick-up of litter and trash related to their
business and the above approved uses on the property, and neighboring properties, on a
daily basis. The area immediately around the buildings dumpster(s) shall at all times be
free of trash, debris, and oil waste, with all trash and waste being placed inside the
appropriate dumpsters in appropriate containers.
6. This conditional use permit shall be personal to the applicant and shall not run with the
land.
Section 2. This Ordinance shall not be printed in the Code of Webster Groves.
Section 3. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage and
approval.
Passed and Approved this _____ day of _______________ 2025.
_____________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
City Clerk
BILL #9279
ORDINANCE #9279
AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
TO THE WEBSTER GROVES PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
TO ALLOW A BANQUET FACILITY USE ON AN APPROXIMATELY
1.67-ACRE TRACT OF LAND IN AN EXISTING STRUCTURE AT
45 W. LOCKWOOD AVE. IN THE “D” COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
AND MATTERS RELATED THERETO
WHEREAS, the Zoning Code of Webster Groves provides the City Council may, by
conditional use permit issued under the provisions of Section 53.141 and 53.159, authorize the use
of property in the “D” Commercial District for a “Banquet Facility” and
WHEREAS, the property located at 45 W. Lockwood Avenue (the “Property”) was used
and will continue to be used for a place of worship and various other commercial purposes; and
WHEREAS, the Webster Groves Presbyterian Church (the “Applicant”), is requesting a
Conditional Use Permit to utilize the existing structure for various events which would fall under
a banquet facility use within a “C” Commercial District (the “Application”); and
WHEREAS, the Application was referred to the City Plan Commission, which, after
studying the Application and the recommendation of the City Planner, and holding a public hearing
on March 3, 2025, has recommended approval of the Application subject to certain conditions;
and
WHEREAS, the City Council gave due notice and held a public hearing on the Application
at City Hall on April 1, 2025 at 7:30 p.m., where the Council heard and considered comments and
suggestions by those present; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined, in accordance with the provisions of
Chapter 53.170 et seq. of the Zoning Code, that granting the Applicant’s Conditional Use Permit
will not:
1. Substantially increase traffic hazards or congestion;
2. Substantially increase fire hazards;
3. Adversely affect the character of the neighborhood;
4. Adversely affect the general welfare of the community; or
5. Overtax public utilities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEBSTER GROVES:
Section 1. The City Council hereby approves a Conditional Use Permit to Applicant
to operate a banquet facility within an existing structure on an approximately 1.67-acre tract of
land at 45 W. Lockwood Avenue within the “D” Commercial District, subject to the following
conditions:
1. All provisions of the City Code shall apply except as expressly modified in this Ordinance
No. ______.
2. The approved use shall be a Banquet Facility.
3. Hours of operation shall be limited to Mondays-Fridays 7am - 10pm, Saturdays 10am -
11pm, and Sundays 12pm – 10pm.
4. The business owners shall be responsible for all pick-up of litter and Banquet Facility
related trash on the property, and neighboring properties, on a daily basis. The area
immediately around the property dumpster(s) shall at all times be free of trash, debris, and
oil waste, with all trash and waste being placed inside the appropriate dumpsters in
appropriate containers.
5. The “D” Commercial District Dimensional Regulations shall apply to all uses.
6. This conditional use permit shall be personal to the applicant and shall not run with the
land.
Section 2. This Ordinance shall not be printed in the Code of Webster Groves.
Section 3. This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon passage and
approval.
Passed and Approved this _____ day of _______________ 2025.
_____________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
____________________________
City Clerk
RESOLUTION #2025-15
AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF WEBSTER GROVES, MISSOURI TO WITHDRAW ITS
MEMBERSHIP AND TERMINATE ITS AGREEMENT WITH THE EAST CENTRAL
DISPATCH CENTER (ECDC) FOR THE FIRE AND POLICE DISPATCH SERVICES
WHEREAS the City of Webster Groves (the “City”) currently contracts Fire and Police
Dispatch services with East Central Dispatch Center (ECDC); and
WHEREAS the ECDC Board of Directors adopted bylaws on August 5, 2020; and
WHEREAS Articles IX of the ECDC Bylaws governs the procedure by which a member
may withdraw from ECDC; and
WHEREAS the City wishes to withdraw its membership and terminate its agreement with
ECDC.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
WEBSTER GROVES, MISSOURI AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1) By this resolution the City hereby provides ECDC with notices of its
withdrawal from ECDC, effective at 11:59 p.m. on June 30, 2025;
and
Section 2) The City Clerk is hereby directed to certify this resolution and send it
to the Executive Director of ECDC as well as the Chairman of the
ECDC Operations Committee and the Chairman of the ECDC
Board of Directors, all prior to close of business on April 1, 2025.
PASSED this day of , 2025.
Mayor
ATTEST:
City Clerk
RESOLUTION #2025-16
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WEBSTER
GROVES, MISSOURI DECLARING SUPPORT FOR THE
PRESERVATION OF THE FEDERAL TAX EXEMPTION OF
MUNICIPAL BONDS
WHEREAS, the tax-exempt municipal bond market is a widely used source of capital for states,
local governments, tribes, territories, and non-profit borrowers that finances a tremendous share
of the nation’s public infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, state and local governments finance about three-quarters of the public infrastructure
in the United States and use tax-exempt bonds to do so, with the federal government providing
only about one-quarter of the investment; and
WHEREAS, federal tax exemption for municipal bonds, dating back to the 1800s and
incorporated into the modern tax code in 1913, has been crucial for state and local governments to
affordably finance critical infrastructure projects; and
WHEREAS, tax-exempt bonds offer borrowers to achieve a multiplier effect of 2.11, meaning
that for every dollar, borrowers achieve $2.11 in borrowing cost savings thereby demonstrating
the efficiency and effectiveness of this exemption in facilitating infrastructure investment; and
WHEREAS, tax-exempt bonds provide for essential infrastructure projects, including recent
construction of Webster Groves Fire Department’s Firehouse Two, road resurfacing throughout
the City, extensive public park renovations and the construction of a new aquatic center, which are
vital to the health and well-being of our community such that without such bonds, the cost of
borrowing would be more expensive thereby causing an increase in taxes and fees that would place
an undue burden on taxpayers; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City finds and determines that tax-exempt municipal bonds
provide an opportunity for economic development along its path, better facilitate the movement of
agriculture products, equipment, and other goods, and increase safety.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Body of the City as follows: The
Governing Body hereby encourages the Missouri Congressional Delegation to assist the City of
Webster Groves, Missouri by preserving the tax-exempt status of municipal bonds by supporting
and ensuring the protection of the federal tax exemption of municipal bonds.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that copies of this Resolution shall be furnished to all members
of the Missouri Congressional Delegation.
ADOPTED this ______day of ________________ 2025.
__________________________
MAYOR
ATTEST:
______________________________
CITY CLERK
CITY OF WEBSTER GROVES
March 18, 2025
The City Council met this date in a regular session, in-person in the Council Chambers, and via
Zoom, at 7:34 p.m.
Present at Roll Call: Mayor Laura Arnold
Councilmember Pam Bliss
Councilmember David Franklin
Councilmember Emerson Smith
Councilmember Karen D. Alexander
Councilmember Emily Hixson Shepherd
Absent: Councilmember Jamie Hasemeier
A quorum was present.
Also present: Dr Marie Peoples, City Manager
Peter Bruntrager, Acting City Attorney
Katie Nakazono, City Clerk
RECOGNITIONS & PROCLAMATIONS
Mayor Arnold proclaimed March as Women’s History Month. The proclamation was presented to
Caroline Green on behalf of the DAR.
REMARKS FROM THE COMMUNITYAND VISITORS
Dave Buck, 6 Colonial Village [Exhibit 1].
NEW BUSINESS - MAYOR, COUNCILMEMBERS, CITY ATTORNEY, CITY
MANAGER
Dr Peoples stated there is concern about the East-Central Dispatch Center consortium losing cities
and rising costs. East-Central has dropped from 8 member cities to 7 and potentially losing Rock
Hill (pending the upcoming aldermen vote). The cost increase over the past 10 years puts the
financial burden on larger cities such as Webster and Clayton. Council would like to address East-
Central to inquire about the future management, staffing, and cost plan. Dr. Peoples will prepare a
draft letter and present it to Council to sign.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
BILL #9277 – THIRD READING
On motion of Councilmember Alexander, seconded by Councilmember Franklin BILL #9277 -
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXECUTE, ON BEHALF
OF THE CITY OF WEBSTER GROVES, A PERMANENT PEDESTRIAN EASEMENT
AND TRAFFIC SIGNAL EASEMENT TO THE ST. LOUIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF
TRANSPORTATION AND PUBLIC WORKS RELATED TO A PORTION OF
March 18, 2025
PROPERTY LOCATED BY 845 MARSHALL AVE., ASSOCIATED WITH FEDERAL
PROJECT NO. STP-5613 (610), having been introduced and read twice on March 4, 2025, was
taken up by its title and read a third time and placed upon its passage to become Ordinance #9277.
Mayor Arnold called for the vote on Bill #9277.
AYES: BLISS, FRANKLIN, SMITH, ALEXANDER, HIXSON SHEPHERD, ARNOLD
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: HASEMEIER
Mayor Arnold stated that Bill #9277 was approved.
CONSENT AGENDA
A motion was made by Councilmember Franklin, seconded by Councilmember Bliss, to approve
the Consent Agenda.
Mayor Arnold called for the vote on the Consent Agenda.
AYES: FRANKLIN, SMITH, ALEXANDER, HIXSON SHEPHERD, ARNOLD, BLISS
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: HASEMEIER
Mayor Arnold stated that the Consent Agenda was approved.
The following Consent Agenda was approved:
• Approval of Minutes – March 4, 2025
• Resolution #2025-11 - Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement with a
Consultant for the Development of a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
• Liquor License Application - Application for Temporary Liquor License for Webster Arts
Fair, Located on the Eden Seminary Grounds, 475 E. Lockwood Avenue, by the Webster
Arts, 2 Summit Ave., to Sell Liquor by the Drink for Consumption on the Premises Where
Sold, on June 6-8, 2025
• Resolution #2025-12 - Authorizing the City Manager to Disburse the FY-2025 Payment
Related to the Multi-Year Agreement for Lifeguard Management Services
• Resolution #2025-13 - Authorizing the City Manager to Purchase One Replacement
Freightliner M2 106 Plus Tandem Dump Truck Chassis
• Resolution #2025-14 - Authorizing the City Manager to Purchase One Hydraulics Fit-Out
Package and Dump Bed for the New (Replacement) Freightliner M2 106 Plus Tandem
Dump Truck
APPOINTMENTS TO BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
• Christy Phelps was appointed to the Plan Commission.
• John Sauter was appointed to the Business Development Commission.
Executive (Closed) Session
Councilmember Bliss called for a motion, which was seconded by Councilmember Smith, to go
into Executive Closed Session per Personnel [MO Statute 610.021 (3)]
Mayor Arnold called for the vote to go into Executive (Closed) Session.
AYES: SMITH, ALEXANDER, HIXSON SHEPHERD, ARNOLD, BLISS, FRANKLIN
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: HASEMEIER
Mayor Arnold stated that the Council would go into Executive (Closed) Session.
2
March 18, 2025
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the City Council, the meeting was adjourned at
7:50 p.m. on motion of the Mayor, duly seconded.
PASSED AND APPROVED this _______day of ____________________ 2025.
________________________
Mayor
______________
City Clerk
3
Exhibit 1
From: Dave Buck
To: Arnold, Laura; Bliss, Pam; Alexander, Karen; Hixson Shepherd, Emily; Hasemeier, Jamie; Peoples, Marie;
Nakazono, Katie; Rangel, Karen; Tyler, Renee; Thomas, Tiara; Kita Quinn; Grace Lee; scheer.tara@wgmail.org;
Christine Keller; Jo Doll; Lisa Hilpert; peterson.hannah@wgmail.org; Malissa Beecham Judge; Nancy Zitzmann;
burst.emily@wgmail.org; reading.amanda@wgmail.org; boyle.jenny@wgmail.org;
schroeder.andrea@wgmail.org; graves.lindsey@wgmail.org; wichard.sara@wgmail.org; Marissa Capron; Renee
Clifton; Meg Holliday; Michelle Sargent; oliver.liz@wgmail.org; siebe.kara@wgmail.org; Betty Roberts;
moore.kristin@wgmail.org; Kerry Arens; young.jill@wgmail.org; Jocelyn Reiss; spencer.evyn@wgmail.org;
kempf.mikayla@wgmail.org; dkrause@eden.edu; principal@holyr.org; hfanning@mqpwg.org;
mbamford@miriamstl.org; kneal@waldorfstl.org; Valori Sherer; wendybruner@peaceuccstl.org; Pastor Meagan
McLaughlin; Farrell Carfield; Kathleen Hurley; Elyssa Sullivan; croftrj@sbcglobal.net; Peggy McCree; Angela
Brooks; Parks, Rosa; hello@maypopshop.com; Shop Descendant; sswederska@gmail.com;
betty@bettysbooksstl.com; hello@thenovelneighbor.com; "bron.kristyn@sbcglobal.net"; Embroider the Occasion;
Yucandu Art Studio; Hannah Bader; Tamera Clair; Ree Hamlin; rebeccanow@sbcglobal.net;
j.donaldson@webster-arts.org; heather@webster-arts.org; Katherine Poppen; nikkilemley@gmail.com; Jaime
Mowers; Brandi Schubert; Sarah Wessel; Melissa Wilkinson; mary@bufe.com; Miki McKee Koelsch; Gerry Welch;
Kathy Hart; Toni Hunt; Jeanne Kirkton; jenstarkey@gmail.com; Karen Beck
Subject: Dave Buck"s "Remarks from the Community & Visitors" at WG City Council Meeting, 3/18/25: Celebrating the
Women of Webster!!!!
Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 7:14:39 AM
Caution: This is an External Message - Please be cautious when opening links or
attachments
“I would like to add to the city’s “Women’s History Month Proclamation”. Experts say that women often make better leaders
than men. So, let’s see how Webster has been doing the last 40 years or so.
Women represent a little more than half, or 53%, of Webster’s total population of 23,000, but consider that we have had a
woman Mayor for the past 39 years! Over 70% of WG City Council members are women. Marie, I believe, is Webster’s first ever
woman City Manager with several talented women on City Staff, including Katie, Karen, Renee and Tiara.
Over 70% of WG School Board members are women, with a new woman Superintendent, Jana Parker, just hired. 77% of our
public-school teachers are women. 7 of 9 of our WGSD School Principals are women. 7 of 10 of our other Webster School
Principals are women. Women lead at least half of the city’s boards & commissions, businesses, clergy and civic organizations.
I could go on. But, it is safe to say that in Webster Groves, WOMEN RULE!!!
As such, as part of our “Women’s History Month” recognition, may I please celebrate by name just a few of the many City
Council & Staff women leaders who have significantly shaped and positively made a difference in our city’s history who are no
longer with us or are no longer serving in office. This esteemed group includes:
Henrietta Ambrose: the first African-American ever elected to serve on City Council in 1986.
39 years of 4 women WG Mayors & counting: Glenn Sheffield (1986-1994); Terri Williams (1994-1998); Gerry Welch (1998 –
2022); and current Mayor Laura Arnold (2022 – Current).
Past women City Council members: Kathy Hart; Toni Hunt; Debi Salberg; Jeanne Kirkton; and Joan Esserman.
Past women City Staff members: Joan Jadali; Jen Starkey; Karen Beck; Dawn Cole; Mara Perry; Jennifer Conrad; and Vera
Cavato.
It is with deep gratitude that we salute all of these women - and ALL of the women - of Webster Groves!!! One final editorial
comment: despite the leadership and accomplishments of women across the nation, even today – over 100 years since women
won the right to vote via the 19th Amendment in 1920 and the Feminist Movement of the 1960’s – women only make 80 cents on
average for every $1.00 a man makes. Of all of the many inequities and injustices that exist in the world, this is certainly one at
the top of the heap.
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