Council discusses herbicide applicator certification for public rights‑of‑way; no action taken

Town Manager Bryce Simmons relayed a Public Works memorandum outlining certification requirements for applying herbicide along Town rights‑of‑way. Because the Town is a local government it is exempt from licensing costs, Simmons said, but staff responsible for application must complete the instructional portion and pass the examination. The Town may designate one certified applicator under whose certification technicians may work.

Vice‑Mayor David Hoback asked what the Town had done previously; Simmons said a prior Town Manager had directed staff to discontinue spraying when the question was raised earlier, leaving some areas (such as the bridge) difficult to maintain with mowers or trimmers and making herbicide application the only practical method in limited circumstances. Councilor Rebecca Adcock asked whether certification would result in a salary increase; Simmons said that had not been discussed and that he considers certification part of the position’s duties. Council took no formal action.