Board flags poison hemlock and rank vegetation in parks; staff schedules mowing

Councilor Liz Mazur told the board she found poison hemlock and thistle in several park planting areas and said the city may be in violation of its weeds and rank vegetation code, citing “title 3, article 3, chapter 3, section 7.”

Parks staff responded that crews would mow the affected areas the next day and cautioned about the toxicity of poison hemlock; staff said they would use enclosed equipment (a bobcat) for the work. A board member noted the city has been adding pollinator plantings—milkweed at Veterans Park—and urged continued plantings while also addressing noxious weeds.

Board members asked staff to take care when treating or removing poisonous plants, to post notices if herbicides are applied, and to verify that crews avoid indiscriminate herbicide use near pet areas such as the dog park. Staff said they aim to limit herbicide use and to post notices on gates when herbicides are applied.

Outcome: Staff scheduled mowing and removal of noxious weeds; board requested careful handling and notification to the public if herbicide is used.