Council delays new mowing policy for TxDOT right-of-way; directs staff to use current budget and communicate with public

The council considered options for mowing and landscape management along TxDOT and city rights-of-way but took no action on a new mowing contract or policy at the May 13 meeting. The council voted to take no action and directed staff to continue operating within the current budget while developing communication and options for future landscaping approaches.

Glenn Caldwell of Public Services reviewed historical costs and noted the city spent roughly $200,000 in FY 2023 on TxDOT right-of-way mowing and budgeted more in FY 2024. Council members discussed TxDOT’s limited mowing capacity, memoranda of agreement with the state, and the practical expectation that visitors do not distinguish between city and state rights-of-way. Several council members proposed low-cost alternatives, including “wild gardens,” native plantings or xeriscaping to reduce recurring mowing costs while keeping 25 feet of clear buffer at intersections for traffic visibility and safety.

Council directed staff to keep current budget authority in place (no action on a contract change), prepare a public communication explaining TxDOT limitations and city options, and develop cost scenarios for alternative landscaping approaches and for temporary measures to control fire risk during the dry season. The motion to take no action carried unanimously.