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Hundreds of residents urge council not to rescind managed native‑landscapes ordinance
Summary
Seventeen speakers and multiple environmental groups urged the council to reject moves to repeal the county’s managed native landscapes protections (bill 140), citing pollinator declines, erosion control, stormwater benefits and offers of inspector training from local institutions.
A broad group of residents and conservation advocates addressed the St. Louis County Council on July 22 to urge the council not to rescind or weaken the county’s managed native‑landscapes ordinance (referred to in the agenda as bill 140).
In public comment, Karen Anderson opened the forum by warning of steep insect declines and arguing that native plants are essential for pollination of crops and the health of local ecosystems: “No insects, no apples, no coffee, no chocolate,” she said. Several other speakers, including Carolyn Bauer (ZIP 63141), Stephanie Todd (representing Eastern Missouri Sierra Club), Marcia Gebhart (Wild Ones St. Louis chapter), and Ellen Harmon (St. Louis Audubon Society), detailed local successes using native landscaping to reduce erosion, capture stormwater and support pollinators. Many speakers offered local resources, noting that Missouri Botanical Garden has proposed training for county inspectors and that multiple nonprofits and nurseries are expanding native-plant programs.
Speakers asked the council to delay or reject action on bill 140 as currently written and suggested narrower enforcement fixes (for misuse or overgrown properties) rather than a full repeal. Several commenters emphasized that native plantings can reduce maintenance costs in parks and neighborhoods and help manage stormwater in flood‑prone areas.
Council member Hancock moved to hold bill 140; the chair announced the bill was being held and that further committee consideration is expected. The record shows extensive community opposition to repeal and offers of technical assistance from local institutions; council members said they appreciate the public input and that training for inspectors should be pursued during deliberations.
