Politics & Government

Arnold Council Discusses Stricter Enforcement of Grass Height Ordinance

Mayor Ron Counts says stiffer penalties for violators may persuade property owners to comply with the law.

Arnold Mayor Ron Counts has proposed stronger enforcement of the city's 10-inch high grass ordinance and more expensive penalties for violators.

“If you do not enforce existing laws, there is no point in adding more laws to improve life in Arnold,” Counts said during a recent City Council planning session.

Tall grass poses a health risk to the community by providing a breeding space for mosquitoes, rodents and snakes. Additionally, when tall grass dies, it becomes a fire risk.

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City contractors will cut violators’ grass only when there is a complaint, Counts said.

“One homeowner only cuts the grass when there is a ticket, and that house usually has seven or eight complaints a season,” Counts said. 

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Community Development Director Mary Holden, who is responsible for enforcing the ordinance, said violators receive a ticket and have 10 days to cut their grass. If the property owner does not comply, the city cuts the grass and bills the violator.

The exceptions are when the homeowner has died or is away on vacation, Holden said.

Police Chief Robert Shockey said adding police officers or deputizing Holden’s staffers could lessen the number of violators.

"We would love it because it would give (my) staff police powers,” Holden told council members.

Counts also discussed raising the penalty fees to persuade homeowners to comply with the ordinance.

“To get people to comply, you have to get into their back pocket,” Counts said.

The council did not discuss an actual fee increase during the work session. No change in policy will occur unless the issue is scheduled for a vote before council members. 


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