Community concerns over Mount Alexander Shire Council policy on the use of glyphosate and other chemicals as a weed killer have led to a petition being presented to the council.
MASC tabled the petition at the meeting on October 18. Council acknowledged receipt of the petition however further discussion and a report will occur at the December 20 council meeting.
Residents are concerned about the effects of the chemicals, which have been shown to be carcinogenic by some reports. The use of weed-killing chemicals raises concerns about council’s duty of care to the community.
Concerned residents previously presented a petition to the council to stop using the chemical near schools and childcare centres and other children’s services. Previously council voted five against two not in favour of removing the use of chemical spraying.
“The council has a Health and Wellbeing Plan to 2025 with no mention of chemicals in that plan,” resident Chris Hooper said.
“Many municipalities in states of Australia and other countries have banned the use of glyphosate.”