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January 27, 2021
TO THE PRESIDENT AND MEMBERS OF THE
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA:
I am hereby returning without my signature Bill No. 200425-A, which was passed by Council at its session on December 3, 2020. This bill prohibits the use of synthetic herbicides on any outdoor property owned by the City, with certain exceptions, unless a waiver is obtained after going through a multi-step process. The bill also requires record keeping and reporting of pesticide usage. The Law Department reviewed this bill and determined that the prohibition contained therein is an attempt by Council to exceed its authority under the City's Home Rule Charter. Council cannot dictate how City properties are managed. Nevertheless, since my administration is committed to providing safe and healthy outdoor green spaces for all residents, we will go above and beyond the measures we already take that currently achieve these goals in order to explore the efficacy of organic vegetation management.
Currently, in managing over 12,000 acres of land, Parks & Recreation (PPR) only uses herbicides that have been approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), which requires extensive scientific data on the potential health and environmental effects of these substances. Our use of these herbicides is always in accordance with their labels and pursuant to state and federal laws. Additionally, PPR staff and contractors who perform herbicide applications hold Certified Pesticide Applicator Licenses, and follow strict guidelines to ensure the proper use of herbicides. Furthermore, PPR's application of synthetic herbicides is based on guidance from an extensive network of local and national subject matter experts, such as environmental scientists and well-respected practitioners, including senior members of PPR staff with decades of experience managing and restoring Philadelphia's rich and diverse park system. These products are critical in controlling problematic...
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