By BARBARA GREEN
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In an attempt to improve the drainage system and streets across Bowie the city council Monday night approved the first reading of an ordinance that would make leaving of grass clippings, debris or other waste produced in conjunction with lawn maintenance on the public roads illegal and the property owner facing possible fines.
At the outset of the discussion several council members asked what they were trying to accomplish with the ordinance. Stoney Lowrance, head of the street department, told the council several people were involved with the development of the regulation, but his biggest concern is the deteriorating condition of the city drainage system. He said during the heavy rainy season they have to clear out the large drain grates of grass, brush and debris.
“The amount of grass clippings, leaves, tree branches that go into the drainage is backing up the system and clogging it up causing even more damage. We clear out the grates we can see like those along Highway 59 and Lover’s Lane, but those we can’t see clog and we won’t know until it is a problem. We also are at risk of that storm water backing up into the sewer system through the manholes which then becomes a health issue,” explained Lowrance.
He added another issue occurs when some people will cut their grass or rake up leaves, blow it out into the street and then call the street department to come clean it up. City streets also are where many landscape contractors blow their grass and clippings. Read the full story in the weekend Bowie News.