Fenton committee advances code changes to address invasive plants after debate

The Board of Aldermen Committee on June 11 forwarded amendments to Chapter 215 of the municipal code that add a new section addressing invasive plant species and clarify the meaning of "rank vegetation," allowing existing invasive stands to remain only if they are maintained, do not expand, and keep a five‑foot buffer from public property.

Community Development Director Amy Starck said the proposed list of species in the ordinance is drawn from the Missouri Department of Conservation invasive-species list and reiterated that the amendment is intended to help the City address complaints about invasive growth encroaching on neighboring properties. Botanist Chuck Caverly of Missouri Native Stewardship Services told the committee, "We are stewards of the land, and the City has committed to steps for removal and long-term maintenance of invasive species to not allow on City properties, especially parks." He also summarized hydrologic benefits, noting established native areas can absorb "up to 7-9 inches of rain per hour" compared with about "½ inch per hour" for mowed lawns and some invasive stands.

Alderwoman Susan Jokerst and Alderman Terry Bereitschaft supported the measure as a tool to protect public property and reduce spread along rights-of-way; City Attorney Erin Seele explained the statutory enforcement path (notice, hearing, abatement, and potential lien if cleanup costs are not paid). Alderman Bruce Rogers voted against forwarding the amendments, expressing concern about imposing mandates on private property and questioning whether recently passed state restrictions fully address plant sales. The committee approved forwarding the ordinance to the full Board with a recorded 6–1 vote.