Neighbors ask for help with weeds
9:35 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, 2008
We had neighbors from all across the Capital City come to us looking for answers to solve the problems with overgrown lots. The leaders from neighborhood associations and neighborhood improvement associations came out to talk about an issue that has been plaguing the Capital City since the City cut weed abatement from it's 2007 budget.
Our guest speaker was a former codes officer and Oakland neighbor Bill Gomez. He talked about the issues in his own neighborhood as well as his experience as a former code officer. Some neighbors want to see that money put back with the sales tax if it is approved. Southern Hill neighbor Bennie Davis says he is taking a proactive approach in his own neighborhood by collecting money to mow down some of the vacant lots.
Davis is with the Southern Hills NA.
"I walked across the street to an old retiree and said, 'Matlock, I need $5'. He says, 'Brother Davis, what you need that for?' I said, 'We gonna get this place cleaned up'," Davis told the group.
Bill Gomez questioned the City's decision to cut $60,000 for weed abatement.
"Why they pick those City services to cut? Of course, I haven't gotten an answer on that. I probably won't." he said.
Don Gigous with Central Park NIA said, "We need to be all willing to chip in to help out more because I tell you what, there is never enough tax money."
There was also some discussion of the sales tax proposal.
We plan on following up with Bennie and his neighbors as they start to cut the lots in the Southern Hills neighborhood.
Comments
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Jul. 23, 2008 at 6:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)adurtyoldman (anonymous)
Take the owner of the property to court. I thought the city contracted it out and put it on owners property tax.
Jul. 24, 2008 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)gstadley (anonymous)
My husband maintained abandoned lots near our property for years, for nothing more than concern for the affect on our property value and the safety of our children.
The city, at our insistance and constant calling, only mowed 45 degree angles by the alley and street. The rest of the weeds grew up to 3 feet and more.
North Topeka is always in need of weed removal, even in occupied houses, regardless of the funding.
We finally bought the lots at tax sale and try to set an example for our neighbors, but it doesn't seem to register with all.
The city used to fine the property if the owners didn't mow. Who helps the elderly and disabled who can't do it themselves? A good neighbor usually will.
The city sends out notices, the weeds are cut and 2 weeks later, they are right back where they were.
It's a vicious circle. Pride of ownership is apparently not a natural expression.
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