MOSES LAKE - Weeds have become a problem on vacant lots in Moses Lake and Mayor Bill Ecret wants the problem fixed.

Ecret recently requested city staff to provide an ordinance for the city council to discuss amending the current ordinance for weed abatement.

"This is probably the no. 1 complaint that I get on a consistent basis, week in and week out, from our citizens and specifically in the residential areas," he said. "I'm trying to find some relief from the property owners and I think the council needs to take a hard look at this because it is a problem in our city."

Ecret first raised concerns at a September council meeting, pointing out the number of vacant lots with unkept weeds, adding the tall weeds are unattractive for people coming into the city.

The current ordinance requires landowners to mow the area 10 feet away from sidewalks and right-of ways as well as keep remaining weeds less than 12 inches tall.

Ecret previously said he would like to see the entire lot mowed down. Other council members were concerned this could be a burden on owners of larger vacant commercial lots.

City staff presented information from other jurisdictions at a Oct. 22 meeting on how they handle weed abatement. Community Director Gilbert Alvarado said most cities vary how they handle weeds. The council decided not to take action at the October meeting. Ecret was not present at that meeting.

This time around, Ecret requested staff to present an ordinance that includes a different standard for commercial and residential areas. Ecret said weeds in residential areas can cause problems for nearby homes. City Council will discuss the ordinance at the Nov. 26 council meeting.