2024 Nuisance Weeds Enforcement Changes

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DATE:             June, 13, 2024

CONTACT:     City of Great Falls Planning & Community Development Department

                       Director Brock Cherry –  (406) 455-8430

2024 NUISANCE WEEDS ENFORCEMENT CHANGES

GREAT FALLS, Montana –The Nuisance Weeds enforcement program, which until recently was managed by Public Works, has relocated to Code Enforcement under the Planning & Community Development Department. City Staff believes that placing the weeds program under Code Enforcement will make it easier for residents to identify and receive services.

However, it is important to note that nuisance weed enforcement will look different this season. Funds utilized in the past for nuisance weed enforcement are no longer available, meaning enforcement of nuisance weeds needs to be administered with existing city personnel and resources. Rest assured, City Staff is committed to providing the best services possible with the resources we have.

As a “pilot program,” the complainant will drive all nuisance weeds issues this season—the City will not actively patrol for noncompliance regarding nuisance weeds. We rely on your vigilance and active participation in reporting these issues. Further, undertaking nuisance weed enforcement utilizing existing Code Enforcement personnel and funding may result in a decline in other Code Enforcement matters. Thus, a “CITIZEN COMPLAINT & REQUEST FORM” is required to begin a Code Enforcement Investigation for all city code complaints. This will allow for necessary documentation, data, and efficient enforcement. Your assistance in this issue is much appreciated.

Below are instructions on how to access the form:

1. A Online Citizen Complaint & Request Form may be filled out online at https://greatfallsmt.net/community/online-citizen-complaint-form
2. A Printable Citizen Complaint & Request Form may be printed online at  https://greatfallsmt.net/sites/default/files/fileattachments/community/page/209281/complaint-form_2024_-3.pdf and returned to any City office.
3. Citizens can stop by any City office to pick up a Printable Citizen Complaint & Request Form.
4. Interoffice Mail will forward all hand-delivered Citizen Compliant & Request Forms to the City’s Code Enforcement Technician, Heather Rohlf.

The Planning & Community Development, Public Works, and Finance Departments have been working closely with each other and the City Manager’s office to plan for the future of nuisance weed enforcement in the City. At the end of the 2024 Nuisance Weed season, City Staff intends to present a brief report to the City Commission on the season’s enforcement activities and make recommendations on whether to increase the level of service for nuisance weed enforcement.