Davenport takes action on weedy properties

DAVENPORT – Four properties within the City of Davenport are being fined for not keeping their weeds under control, an issue that city officials say is creating a fire hazard.

At the Davenport City Council meeting on August 12, the council approved passing fines against four properties that allowed their weeds to grow “over 12 inches in height.” Property owners were notified by the city fire chief earlier in the year, but the issue was not addressed, according to the council. The property owners will be charged for the city removing the weeds, a cost of up to $60 an hour for labor and equipment.

City Clerk Dave Leath said the city expects to recoup the weed removal costs on all but one of the properties because it is in foreclosure. If the house ends up being sold at public auction, Lincoln County has the right to recoup costs before a lesser taxing district.