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Cohoes council tables proposed grass-and-weeds ordinance after residents warn it would be too broad
Summary
Public commenters, including residents of 123 Simmons Ave, urged the council to narrow Ordinance No.16 on grass and weeds to avoid penalizing gardens and plant waste; after discussion the council voted unanimously to table the ordinance.
During the public-comment period on July 28, several residents urged the Common Council to revise Ordinance No.16 (proposed Chapter 165, "Grass and Weeds") to avoid unintentionally penalizing home gardens and plant stewardship. Matt Bernstein (123 Simmons Ave) said the proposal was overly broad and handed a booklet to council members, arguing "This Ordinance is too broad if you’re trying to target specific negligent homeowners. Maybe try changing the verbiage." Brian Kremer responded that the ordinance’s goal was to address property neglect and allow the city to mow when owners are negligent, and Council President Adam Biggs said the council was open to changes.
After public comment and council discussion the council moved to table Ordinance No.16. Council Member Higgins made a motion to TABLE the ordinance, seconded by Council President Biggs; "All members voted 'AYE.'" The ordinance will return if and when revisions are prepared for council consideration.
