The Dotte

UG Tackles Weeds

UG Public Works and the Parks and Recreation Departments, along with private contractors, have tackled more than 267 lots a day. The frequency of mowing was reduced last year as part of budget reductions in the 2011 budget. Many residents complained about the reduced amount of mowing and Commissioners responded by adding money to the budget to address the unsightly and obnoxious weeds. 

“We heard the thoughts of the commissioners and the citizens and it is our plan to continue to mow as many lots as possible,” said Tim Nick, Public Works manager. ”All the crews have been working hard and have done a great job to date, especially considering the extreme heat that they had to deal with last week.  The recent “cooling” is much welcomed by all of those working outside.”

As of August 5th, the crews have mowed a combined total of 1,182 lots. Some areas with extremely high grass will be hit after the easier parcels are completed. Margie Witt, Director of Parks of Recreation, stated some citizens applauded crews as they finished mowing the Jersey Creek area last week.

Mowing vacant lots and parcels which the owners refuse to take care of is a major cost to all Wyandotte County taxpayers.  

Unified Government crews have mowed more than one thousand overgrown lots in the past week. The increased war on weeds and high grass on vacant lots, along boulevards and in parks is due to increased funding approved recently by the Unified Government Board of Commissioners.