Commission approves 49 South Parkview plan after debate over invasive groundcovers; Vinca and pachysandra to be replaced

The Bexley Tree and Public Gardens Commission approved a landscape plan for 49 South Parkview on June 18 after a lengthy discussion about invasive and potentially invasive groundcovers. The applicant’s designer, Steven Marovich, presented a plan that retained an existing framing hedge, added smaller trees and shrubs, and proposed perennials and groundcovers; portions of the planting schedule were intended for a later phase. Commissioners raised concerns about two proposed groundcovers — Vinca minor and Japanese pachysandra — citing state and regional invasive lists and local experience with those species escaping cultivation. Walter Raines, the commission’s consultant, and several commissioners urged substitution with noninvasive alternatives. After discussion a motion to approve the plan “as presented” failed in voice voting confusion; the commission then approved the plan with a motion that required replacing Vinca and pachysandra with noninvasive alternatives. Why it matters: commissioners said avoiding invasive groundcovers protects city rights‑of‑way, natural areas and downstream biodiversity. Several commissioners asked staff to compile a recommended/prohibited plant list for applicants, and Mayor Kessler encouraged using established state or regional lists (for example, Ohio Department of Agriculture or Ohio Invasive Plants Council) as standards. Supporting details: The plan includes options to remove two declining maples in the lawn strip and install larger replacement trees if the city and homeowner coordinate irrigation and planting; the applicant indicated some perennials and annuals were being deferred for cost reasons, with hardscape work prioritized first. Staff confirmed that irrigation in the city right‑of‑way is allowed with a consent and hold‑harmless agreement with the water department. Next steps: the commission asked staff to develop a list of species guidance (prohibited, watchlist, recommended alternatives) and invited commissioners to join a small working group to draft guidance for future applications.