The Hollister Fire Department this week advised 140 property
owners to remove excess weeds because they are susceptible to
catching fire during the summer months.
The Hollister Fire Department this week advised 140 property owners to remove excess weeds because they are susceptible to catching fire during the summer months.
Fire Marshal Mike O’Connor recently surveyed the entire city, “down every block,” and purposed the list. On Tuesday, he sent notices to the owners, who have until June 16 to clear the land.
After that, a city-hired contractor will cut the parcels left untended, and the owners would be billed for the work.
The HFD has been overseeing the annual weed abatement program since the 1970s, O’Connor said.
“It’s nothing new,” he said.
O’Connor said the weeds pose a danger because the grass and weeds dry out and have a “low-ignition temperature.”
“A cigarette or a spark or a bottle rocket, illegal fireworks can start them,” he said.
Among the properties on the list – aside from developers and residents – are Hazel Hawkins Hospital, the San Benito High School District and South County Housing Corp.
As of Wednesday, he said about half of the 140 parcels had been cleared of weeds. While about 90 percent of property owners have generally cooperated in previous years, he hopes to have the list down to 30 properties by the deadline. Last year the city contractor tended 37 properties, and owners were billed a total of $2,700.
O’Connor mentioned City Councilwoman Pauline Valdivia expressed concern because several commercial development properties were on the list. However, he said, “They usually do take care of their properties.”
The Hollister City Council unanimously approved a resolution this week declaring each property on the list as a “public nuisance.”
The resolution also set the precedence for O’Connor and the fire department to order removal of the weeds. O’Connor will return at the next regular meeting June 16 to update Council.
A Council staff report estimated the projected cost to the city at $5,000. The money will be recovered after next year’s property taxes are collected.
