Focus Area: Quality of Life and Parks and Recreation
Staff Contact: Mike Sirna and John Brockus
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title:
title
Report regarding proposed amendments to Olathe Municipal Code Section 6.09.040 (Definitions) pertaining to the control of noxious weeds, weeds and other uncontrolled vegetation.
Body
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recommended motion:
Accept the report. Unless directed otherwise, staff will prepare the ordinance for formal consideration on August 4, 2026.
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Summary:
This proposed amendment to Section 6.09.040 of the Olathe Municipal Code, pertaining to Weeds (Definitions) updates the City’s list of poisonous and nuisance vegetation to better reflect plant species that occur in Kansas and to remain consistent with the State of Kansas noxious weeds list. These changes are being brought forward in response to a staff concern raised during the May 19 City Council meeting. The recommendations are based on research as well as conversations with State of Kansas and Johnson County noxious weed departments.
Poison oak and poison sumac are proposed for removal from the ordinance because they are not identified as plants that occur in Kansas by state and local authorities. Poison ivy, however, is regularly found in this community and throughout Kansas and will remain on the City’s list because it continues to present a public health concern.
The amendment also adds bush honeysuckle (Lonicera Maackii) to the list of weeds. The State of Kansas added bush honeysuckle to the Kansas class C noxious weed list effective May 15, 2026. Kansas class C noxious weeds are more widespread and are managed to reduce their impact over time. Bush honeysuckle is an invasive shrub that spreads aggressively, crowds out native vegetation, reduces biodiversity, and weakens the health of wooded areas, stream corridors, and the urban forest. These impacts are especially important in eastern Kansas, where invasive understory species can weaken the health and diversity of the urban forest. Adding bush honeysuckle to our list of weeds will keep the City of Olathe aligned with the State of Kansas noxious weeds list and support ongoing efforts to protect the health of the community’s urban forests and natural areas.
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Financial Information:
None
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Attachment(s):
A- Ordinance 26-XX