Greenwood board reduces resident's grass‑cutting bill to $150, orders reinspection within seven days

The Greenwood Board of Public Works and Safety voted July 6 to reduce a $235 grass‑cutting invoice for 1309 Kenwood Drive to $150 and directed a reinspection within seven days to confirm compliance.

Larry Weaver, code officer with the City of Greenwood, told the board he inspected the property after a neighbor complaint, served a notice of correction and later returned to find the grass had not been mowed. Weaver provided an inspection itinerary, photographs and the bill issued to the resident. He also explained that mowing crews travel with two workers and charges reflect both crew members.

Resident Grayson Spicer, who joined by phone, said he had mowed his front yard and later his backyard — which he believed was obscured by a privacy fence — within the notice period. "Someone came, mowed the front and backyard, and sent me a bill for $250 or $235," Spicer said, adding that crews entered the gated yard while no one was home.

Board discussion emphasized staff attempts to contact the resident before city crews mowed and noted this was treated as a continuous abatement property to be monitored. A board member moved to reduce the fine to $150 and require a reinspection within seven days; the board approved the motion. Staff also said that if the property is not in compliance at the seven‑day inspection (target date July 13) the full $235 charge would be imposed.

Members discussed maintenance expectations along fence rows and weed trimming; Spicer said he did not own a weed eater but would obtain one to avoid recurring fines. The board closed the item after voting and thanked Spicer for addressing the issue.

The board’s action reduces the immediate financial penalty but keeps enforcement on the calendar: staff will reinspect within seven days, and the city retains the authority to impose the original charge if the property remains out of compliance.