COH new program targets overgrown abandoned lots

[trymahjong]

Mayor's Mow-Down Program Targets Overgrown Abandoned Lots 
Community Groups Receive a Modest Fee to Maintain Lots in their Neighborhoods

The Mayor's Mow-Down Program is a new pilot program created to address the problem of overgrown abandoned lots in Houston neighborhoods. Sponsored by the Department of Neighborhoods (DON), in partnership with Keep Houston Beautiful (KHB), the program aims to encourage civic groups and nonprofit organizations to make a commitment to maintain abandoned lots in their own neighborhoods. Through such efforts, neighborhood groups can help address public safety concerns often associated with overgrown lots, preserve properties values and instill community pride.

The program offers participating groups a modest fee of $75 for each approved cut after the work has been completed and verified. The first mowing will be done by City of Houston (COH) crews. Thereafter, the community groups take over maintenance of the lots. Each cut must be approved in advance. KHB will assist by providing groups with access to supplies and tools for the projects.

Any civic group or nonprofit organization interested in maintaining a COH approved abandoned property may apply by visiting www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods/mowdown.html. For more information, email mowdown.don@houstontx.gov or call 832.394.0654.

To learn more about DON, visit www.houstontx.gov/neighborhoods. To learn more about KHB, visit http://www.houstonbeautiful.org/.