High grass enforcement presenting a challenge to West Newton
WEST NEWTON — Even though it has a high weed/grass ordinance that is designed to crack down on property owners who fail to maintain their yards, West Newton is still grappling with how to deal with this problem. And that has made Councilwoman Arlene Tomich increasingly frustrated.
“I can’t look across the street from my house without seeing overgrown grass and garbage strewn about,” said Tomich, during the council’s monthly meeting Monday evening. “What kind of lesson is that teaching our kids about cleanliness? We have to start addressing this issue.”
According to Solicitor Nate Boring, the borough has little control once a case is turned over to the local magistrate.
“Sometimes the magistrate will give a violator an extension, rather than levying a fine right away,” he said. “That’s because the magistrate may have to give priority to more serious criminal issues.”
Tomich replied that she is unhappy about the process. “Why do we have to go to the magistrate to fine someone? What good are our ordinances if we can’t do anything about enforcing them? We shouldn’t have to live with this filth in our backyards,” said Tomich, who added that she intends on speaking with Magistrate Charles Christner about her concerns.
Also, during the meeting, council President George Molovich announced that the borough has formed “Revitalize Downtown West Newton” — a group that will explore ways to stimulate more business within the downtown district. Molovich appointed Councilman Dave Tamasy Sr. to lead the group.
“We want to bring together retail businesses, restaurants, banks, clubs and civic organizations, as well as citizens to share ideas about growing our business community,” said Tamasy. “Our group hopes to meet twice a month.”
In other action, the council:
n Announced that on Aug. 1, the borough will go live with its new system for handling payment of sewage bills. Residents can pay their bill at the municipal building with a check, money order or credit card, pay online with a credit card or mail a check to the municipal building. No cash will be accepted. Future sewage bills will include detailed instructions about how to make payments.
n Reported that the West Newton Bridge passed inspection and will undergo a $4.1 million renovation next year.
n Renewed its insurance policy with Higbee Insurance.
n Hired Louis Friedman as the borough’s new street supervisor.