Horace council asks staff to draft resolution to consider boulevard artificial turf

The Horace City Council on a voice vote directed staff to draft a resolution to consider allowing artificial turf in the city boulevard at 6726 72nd Avenue South, after staff said the installation may violate city ordinance 3‑0205.

Brent, a city staff member, told the council two neighbors had filed complaints and that the ordinance allows only grass on boulevard strips unless the council approves by resolution. "That is a violation of 3‑0205 of the city ordinances unless the city council approves by resolution," Brent said, noting the property owner had been responsive and submitted a formal request.

Chair Sarah said she understood why the owner chose turf given persistent problems getting grass to establish at that site and asked the council to seek more information before a final decision. "I’d like to hear more about it," Sarah said, adding she wanted feedback from the neighbors who raised concerns.

Council members emphasized the decision is largely aesthetic but raised practical conditions the resolution should address, including maintenance responsibilities, snow‑plow impacts and whether the city would be held liable for future problems. Naomi said she had "no issue" with the turf if the owner agreed to assume responsibility for maintenance and any impacts on city operations.

Rachel noted potential visual uniformity concerns and suggested staff consider conditions that ensure safe installation—citing the possibility of uneven edging or raised features that could create hazards.

The council did not vote on a final approval; instead it voted to have staff prepare a resolution for future consideration with proposed maintenance and liability conditions. The resolution will return to a future meeting for formal action.