City Council Approves Purchase of EV Mowers Amid Landscape Contract Concerns

Woodland City Council has taken a significant step towards improving its landscaping operations by approving the purchase of new electric mowers, despite ongoing discussions about the city's landscaping costs and practices. During the September 2, 2025, meeting, council members expressed concerns about the current expenditure on landscaping, which totals nearly $400,000 annually, including $193,000 for water usage.

Council member DeWitt emphasized the need for action, suggesting that the city should explore contracting out landscaping services to reduce costs. He noted that many outside contractors have their own equipment, which could alleviate some financial burdens. However, he also highlighted the importance of not missing out on $45,000 in rebates for the electric mowers, urging the council to make a timely decision.

The council ultimately agreed to proceed with the mower purchase while committing to revisit the broader issue of landscaping expenses and practices. DeWitt assured that a comprehensive set of options regarding cemetery maintenance and landscaping costs would be presented within two months.

In addition to the mower discussion, council members reiterated the importance of fiscal responsibility and the need for transparency in future contracts with third-party landscaping companies. They called for a thorough review of operational costs to identify potential savings.

The decision to purchase the mowers reflects a proactive approach to modernizing city operations while addressing community concerns about spending. The council's commitment to revisiting landscaping strategies indicates a willingness to adapt and find more efficient solutions for Woodland's maintenance needs.