City crews are busy trying to keep up with fast-growing grass across the city, the Houston City Council heard Monday night.
Members heard that frequent rain has made keeping up with lawn maintenance difficult for city workers. That includes parks and Pine Lawn Cemetery, which was groomed in advance of the Memorial Day holiday.
In other matters, members:
—Learned the city has mailed several letters to property owners seeking their yards mowed.
—Heard that seven letters will be mailed to property owners outlining that their property is subject to condemnation under the city’s nuisance ordinance.
—Heard an update on discussions with the staffs of U.S. Sens. Claire McCaskill and Roy Blunt to transfer ownership of the storm shelter eventually. The city would likely maintain an emergency management office in the basement and make arrangements for the shelter’s opening when stormy weather arrives, said City Administrator Larry Sutton.
The structure at Pine and First streets was originally built with FEMA funding.
—Received an update on plans to construct a turning lane at West Highway 17 and Lilly Avenue. Estimates came in more than twice the original $30,000 estimate and the city and MoDOT are exploring options.
—Heard the Houston Municipal Swimming Pool will open Monday for the season. It has been filled.
—Received an update on a need to recruit more firemen. A council committee is studying the issue.