The city on Monday acknowledged the unusually wet spring and summer have made it difficult for property owners to mow their lawns due to soggy soil conditions and standing water.
So the city’s ordinance regarding tall grass and weeds is temporarily on hold. The city said it will monitor the situation on a weekly basis and will make a public announcement when the suspension is lifted.
The decision was made one week after city workers clashed with an 82-year old woman over the condition of her lawn.
The city said it asked Margaret Gaul to mow her lawn at the beginning of the month. Workers returned to the home after the Independence Day weekend and told Gaul the city would mow her lawn and charge her for it.
Police say Gaul then began yelling at the workers, grabbed one of them by the hair, and punched her numerous times.
Gaul was arrested and charged with aggravated battery and aggravated assault.
The incident prompted a response from Angela Claibourn, who addressed the City Council Monday night, July 13.
“It’s my prayer that the city decision makers take steps to prevent anything like this from happening in the future,” Claibourn said.
She said the city should have a plan in place to help seniors instead of confronting them.
“There are agencies and groups that are for senior citizens. Maybe the city can call upon one of those to help out or possibly get volunteers from WIU involved in it,” she said.
Aldermen did not comment on her suggestion.
