Council confirms Fire Department—s 2024 weed-abatement report; 21 parcels required department abatement

The Santa Rosa City Council confirmed the Fire Department—s 2024 weed and rubbish abatement report and authorized collection of associated abatement costs.

Interim Fire Marshal Kemplin Robbins told the council the department inspects parcels after the local declaration of fire season and issues notice-to-comply and follow-up notices. Of more than 10,000 parcels on the department—s inspection list, Robbins reported 84 parcels were listed as in violation after reinspection during the 2024 season; 21 of those required the department to send a contractor to abate hazards at the owner—s expense. As of June 30, 2025, 41 parcels had unpaid department-related balances for violation notices, reinspections and abatement work.

Nut graf: The resolution asked council to confirm the itemized abatement report as authorized by Santa Rosa Municipal Code sections referenced in the staff report. Confirming the report lets the city recover costs for abatement work and move unpaid balances onto property tax records if necessary.

Public comment included residents who said they—d noticed positive enforcement and abatement activity in their neighborhoods; one speaker urged careful and documented inspections to avoid overreach.

Ending: Council adopted the resolution by a 6-0 vote with Councilmember Fleming absent. The Fire Department will continue inspections and follow the code process for unpaid balances and cost recovery.