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Open space lot in Owensboro prompts mowing, liability discussion; Grange may help
Summary
Work group members discussed an unmowed town lot where neighbors previously mowed, offers from community groups to provide mowing, and liability and insurance concerns; the Grange offered to consider periodic mowing and the group will inspect the parcel.
Members of the Open Space and Stewardship Policies Work Group spent part of their July 2 meeting discussing an unmowed town lot in the Owensboro area that neighbors had maintained in past years.
A work group member said the parcel has become “pretty shaggy” and that residents and passersby have raised concerns. Several attendees said community groups had previously offered to mow the site periodically; one participant offered to raise the issue with the Grange to confirm whether they remain willing to help.
Wendy, the town’s First Selectman, told the group the lot had been the subject of a proposed sale that did not occur and that the neighbor who had mowed it previously would not continue. “This is the lot that we did not sell. The neighbor wanted to buy. So, obviously, he's not gonna mow it anymore,” she said, and added that the town should be careful about allowing outside groups to work on town property because of liability concerns. A work group member suggested formalizing an arrangement — similar to existing agreements that allow farmers to use town farmland — so responsibilities and insurance are clear.
Marjorie and other members agreed to inspect the parcel and report back. Marjorie suggested a low‑intensity approach (mowing the verge or mowing once a year in spring) to give the site an appearance of intentional care while minimizing disturbance to any existing plant communities.
No formal vote or policy change was made; the group discussed next steps including an on‑site review and follow up with potential volunteer groups and the town insurance/administration to ensure appropriate coverage before any outside party performs maintenance.
