WINDSOR LOCKS, CT — Windsor Locks Public Works said mowing delays around town are tied to reduced staffing, added work and fast seasonal grass growth.
The department posted the update May 23 after receiving several calls from residents about mowing at different locations in town.
According to Public Works, the Parks Department’s grounds maintenance staffing hours were reduced as part of the fiscal year 2025-26 budget approved by voters at last summer’s referendum. The department said it was directed to reduce a full-time maintainer position and a full-time seasonal laborer position.
That amounts to a reduction of 80 hours each week, according to the department.
At the same time, Public Works said the department has taken on additional maintenance responsibilities, including the new Senior Center and Police Department facilities.
The town is also expected to take over maintenance for the Church Street green and the pathway along Main Street once those projects are formally accepted from the Connecticut Department of Transportation’s contractor.
Public Works said Parks staff are responsible for maintaining about 30 properties throughout Windsor Locks.
The department said this is also the fastest grass growth period of the season, which can make it difficult to keep every location on the same mowing schedule.
Crews are continuing to prioritize maintenance needs and address properties as efficiently as possible, according to the department.
“With a reduced workforce, we will simply not be able to do everything we used to, but it isn’t due to a lack of effort,” Public Works said in the post. “Simply put, two staff members cannot accomplish the same work that was previously performed by four.”
Public Works also addressed comments suggesting the current mowing conditions are tied to the upcoming budget vote.
The department said that is not the case.
Officials said the staffing reductions were implemented as part of the fiscal year 2025-26 budget approved last summer.
Public Works said employees take pride in their work and are working to keep up despite the increased workload and reduced staffing.
Windsor Locks is not the only nearby town dealing with mowing delays this spring.
In Enfield, Town Manager Matthew Coppler posted a May 22 release saying the town was addressing delays in its seasonal mowing schedule due to recent weather, fast grass growth and updated roadside mowing and trimming safety protocols.
Enfield officials said Public Works staff had undergone additional training tied to roadside safety standards, which temporarily affected productivity.
Enfield said crews were giving priority to high-visibility and heavily traveled areas while working through the backlog.
Windsor Locks Public Works said it appreciates residents’ patience during the busy season and encouraged people to continue reporting maintenance concerns directly to the department.
The department said its Facebook page is not regularly monitored.
Residents with questions or concerns may contact Windsor Locks Public Works at 860-627-1405 or publicworks@wlocks.com.
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