Blendon's Landscaping Policy Sparks Resident Outrage

A New Approach to Landscaping in Blendon Township

Blendon Township, located in Ohio, is currently navigating a complex issue involving property maintenance codes and the growing interest in native plant gardens. The township has received significant public attention regarding a draft proposal that aims to create a managed landscape policy. This initiative is intended to balance the needs of residents who want to cultivate native plants with the enforcement of existing property maintenance regulations.

Township Administrator Patrick Myers highlighted that the topic has generated more interest from residents than any other since he joined the township office in 2023. The discussion began after a complaint was filed about a property where residents were planting native grasses and plants. Following an inspection, the code enforcement officer spoke with the residents, leading to a decision by the trustees to explore a managed landscape policy.

Myers explained that the goal of this policy is to allow residents to grow native plants while ensuring compliance with the property maintenance code. “We’re trying to put something in place that helps people understand what they can and can’t do as far as native grasses are concerned,” he said. The policy would require homeowners to submit a plan detailing their landscaping intentions, which could include a permit or educational requirements.

Enforcing Property Maintenance Codes

Blendon Township’s current ordinance mandates that homeowners keep their grass under eight inches in height. The code enforcement process starts with a complaint, followed by an inspection and issuance of a "blue tag" warning. If the homeowner does not comply within three days, a second warning is issued. Failure to adhere to the code results in a nuisance abatement, which is voted on by the three trustees.

If the homeowner still does not act, the township may hire a third party to cut the grass, with the cost added to the property taxes. Myers noted that these costs can range from $200 to $700, depending on the size of the property. The township also offers equipment for residents who need to trim their lawns.

Balancing Native Plants and Regulations

The challenge lies in creating a policy that allows the township to enforce the code on nuisance properties while giving homeowners the option to grow native plant gardens. Myers emphasized that the policy must prevent individuals from using "native grasses" as an excuse to avoid maintaining their property. “Do we have to have a permit? Do we ask them to take a class?” he asked, highlighting the complexities involved.

The property that sparked the discussion now features a sign labeled “Native Plant Habitat Garden.” Myers explained that the goal is to protect such projects while ensuring that all residents comply with the property maintenance code. “It’s not about mulch with purple flowers in it. It’s about grass, those types of things that aren’t natural landscaping,” he said.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Despite the intention to support responsible landscaping, the draft proposal has faced backlash from some residents. An online petition against the proposal has gathered over 1,000 signatures. Tim Adkins, a Blendon Township resident and organizer of the petition, expressed concerns about the potential impact of the policy.

Adkins argued that the current wording of the ordinance could give local government a role similar to a homeowners' association (HOA), controlling what residents can plant. He pointed out that the draft proposal would require permits, courses, and signage, all at the residents’ expense. Failure to comply could result in fines of $50 per day.

Adkins and his family maintain a well-manicured landscape, spending significant time tending to their plants and garden. He believes the policy should involve experts in native species and pollinators to ensure a balanced approach. “We should be envious of the properties where they’re willing to take their private property and then actually do something that supports our local environment,” he said.

Upcoming Public Hearings

Blendon Township is holding two public hearings to discuss the “Managed Natural Landscapes” policy. The meetings are scheduled for August 6 and August 20, both starting at 6:30 p.m. at the Blendon senior center. These sessions provide an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and contribute to the development of the policy.

As the township moves forward, the focus remains on finding a solution that respects both the environment and property maintenance standards. The goal is to create a policy that encourages sustainable landscaping while ensuring compliance with existing regulations.