Residents urge Livonia to reconsider weed-control bids over concerns about 2,4‑D; DPW says no equally effective non‑toxic alternative known

Two members of the Schoolcraft College Environment Club told Livonia’s City Council on Feb. 9 they were concerned about herbicide runoff from the city's proposed two‑year vegetation control program and urged the council to delay or decline the contracts until more information on non‑toxic alternatives is available.

Nas Simsett said the companies use 2,4‑D and urged the council to "decline these bids as there has not yet been an accurate assessment of the runoff from these toxins into the groundwater." He said he had discussed alternatives with Grand Rapids staff who opted for nontoxic options in some parks.

Jaren Ho, identified as a leader of the Schoolcraft College Environment Club, asked the council to "reconsider contracting with any company that would expose your residents to 2 4 d" and requested more time to obtain comparative information.

Doug Moore with DPW responded that the department typically applies the selected agents twice a year (spring and fall) and said he was not aware of any non‑toxic product with the same level of effectiveness as 2,4‑D. The item was placed on the consent agenda for Feb. 23; councilmembers asked for information but did not instruct staff to change course during the study session.

Next steps: The weed-control contract awards will appear on the Feb. 23 consent agenda; environmental advocates requested additional evaluation of alternatives prior to final action.