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Resident alleges contractor sprayed pesticide near children; city says contractor reprimanded
Summary
A resident said he saw Nieves Landscape spray SpeedZone at Coronado Park without warning signs and urged a ban; assistant city manager told the council the contractor was reprimanded and instructed not to repeat the practice after staff met with the company.
Nicholas Valencia told the council he witnessed a crew from Nieves Landscape spraying a product called SpeedZone along a sidewalk at Coronado Park while children, including his wife’s 18‑year‑old, were present and that there were no warning signs or tape. Valencia said SpeedZone requires a 24‑hour drying period before pedestrian access and linked the chemicals to long‑term neurodevelopment concerns; he urged the city to investigate, hold the contractor accountable and consider a ban or stricter protocols.
Assistant City Manager Jerry Hill apologized for Valencia’s experience, said staff had met with the landscape contractor after receiving a complaint and that the contractor had been reprimanded and instructed not to repeat the behavior. Hill asked for patience as staff works with the contractor to prevent recurrence.
Council Member Vasquez acknowledged Valencia’s comment via email and apologized for any delayed response and offered to follow up directly. The council did not vote on policy changes; members requested staff investigate further and report back if additional oversight, signage or formal policy changes are warranted.
