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Committee gives favorable recommendation to turf ordinance prioritizing natural grass with exceptions
Summary
The committee recommended an ordinance that would require replacement of synthetic turf in public spaces with natural grass by default, while allowing environmentally sustainable turf in limited cases (e.g., stadium) with Parks Department review and possible council approval.
The Everett City Council Committee on Legislative Affairs and Elections voted to recommend an ordinance that prioritizes natural grass over synthetic turf for replacement of playing fields and public spaces, while preserving an exceptions process for certain high‑use facilities.
Councilor Rogers, the ordinance sponsor, said the redrafted language adds flexibility and was developed with input from staff to allow exceptions for “environmentally sustainable” turf in limited areas such as stadiums. The ordinance would make grass the default replacement once synthetic turf reaches the end of its natural lifespan, but allow the Parks Department to propose an alternative and the City Council to approve exceptions.
Councilor Van Campan praised the compromise language. Councilor Smith said she supported sustainability goals but opposed the council dictating park construction and argued the administration and parks department should retain discretion; she registered a No vote in committee. Sponsors emphasized the ordinance would prohibit “harmful chemical turf” and that any exception would be a transparent discussion involving parks staff and council review.
The committee moved a favorable recommendation; the motion passed with a majority for recommendation and Councilor Smith recorded as opposed. The measure now moves to the full City Council for further consideration.
