Mid City Times

The City of Fort Worth has launched a new initiative called the Mobile Tool Shed program, designed to assist residents in maintaining their properties while encouraging neighborhood pride and compliance with local codes.

Rosa Gomez, a resident of the Worth Heights neighborhood, recently benefited from the program. "One, two, three, it was easy!" Gomez expressed joyfully after using the rented lawn mower and tree trimmer to manage her overgrown lawn. Her lawn equipment had broken earlier in the spring, complicating her efforts due to frequent rain.

The City provides the service free of charge. Residents can reserve the tools online, select a convenient drop-off time, and have them delivered directly to their doorstep. Code Compliance Officer Gaylon Johnson illustrated the ease of the process: "Residents sign up for the tools they need, choose a drop-off time, and we show up at their doorstep. Each piece of equipment comes ready to use."

Johnson demonstrated to Gomez how to use the equipment, instructing her on the fuel process: "This is where the gas goes," he noted, reassuring her that the tools are delivered filled with gas and can be returned empty.

Gomez found the process efficient and appreciative. "It was great," she stated, highlighting the convenience of the service. She has started to inform her neighborhood association, encouraging them to explore the opportunity.

Brian Daugherty, Director of Code Compliance, stressed the program's intent to eliminate barriers such as financial constraints and transportation issues that hinder access to necessary lawn care equipment. "The tools are there for them," Daugherty explained, noting that the initiative can save residents significant costs and prevent costly city abatements due to non-compliance.

The City is currently monitoring the program's effectiveness in pilot neighborhoods, with plans to possibly expand if it proves successful. “If it proves successful in our pilot neighborhoods, we absolutely want to explore expanding it to more communities across Fort Worth,” Daugherty commented.

The initiative has provided relief to residents like Gomez, who appreciated the timely support as challenging weather conditions approach. “I’m just really grateful the City of Fort Worth is offering something like this. It makes a big difference,” she said.

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