Laguna Beach Council Considers Landscape Maintenance Contest for Improved Community Gardens

The Laguna Beach City Council held a study session on August 12, 2025, focusing on the maintenance and management of city landscapes. The meeting featured public comments highlighting concerns about the use of herbicides, particularly glyphosate, and the overall condition of public gardens and parks.

One speaker raised alarms about the lack of notification regarding chemical sprays used in city landscaping, emphasizing the potential risks to pets and the community. The speaker suggested that the city should treat its landscapes as valuable gardens, advocating for better care and maintenance practices. They proposed a contest for local landscape contractors to maintain specific parks, allowing the city to evaluate different techniques and standards of care.

City staff responded to the concerns about herbicide use, clarifying that they do not use glyphosate and instead apply organic alternatives. They acknowledged the need for proper signage when treatments are applied and committed to ensuring staff training on this issue.

Council members expressed support for the idea of assigning responsibility for specific areas to staff or contractors, suggesting that regular oversight could improve the quality of city landscapes. They discussed the importance of addressing minor maintenance issues, such as overgrown grass and dying plants, to enhance the aesthetic appeal of public spaces.

The session concluded with a consensus on the need for innovative approaches to landscape management, with plans to explore the proposed contest and further evaluate maintenance strategies in the coming months. The discussions underscored the city's commitment to preserving its natural beauty while ensuring public safety and satisfaction.