In a concerning development for the Mercer Island community, Mayor Salim Nice and Deputy Mayor David Rosenbaum issued a statement condemning an act of vandalism that targeted city-owned landscaping. The officials revealed that concentrated herbicides had been deliberately added to the soil, leading to serious plant failures and significant environmental damage. They characterized this act as felony-level vandalism, emphasizing the financial burden it places on the city. The leaders called for community vigilance and cooperation, urging anyone with information about the incident to reach out to the Mercer Island Police Department. They highlighted the city’s strong commitment to environmental stewardship and the protection of public resources.

The officials expressed their determination to hold the perpetrators accountable, reinforcing that such acts of destruction are intolerable. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of collective efforts to preserve the community’s natural beauty. The statement resonates with the city's values, aiming to foster a sense of shared responsibility among residents.