A resolution strongly discouraging the use of glyphosate-based herbicides is being reconsidered by Langley city council.

The action to take a stance against the use of pesticides within city limits was suggested to the council by a citizen during an earlier meeting.

During a meeting last week, Councilmember Thomas Gill pointed to the opening lines of the draft of the resolution, saying they contained “dubious claims” that have not been backed up scientifically.

The opening lines state, “Whereas, research has found the Glyphosate-based Herbicides such as Roundup and similar compounds may cause harm. And whereas, that harm can affect all species which might come in contact with it. ”

“The only claims that have been backed up are through litigation, which is not a scientific method,” Gill said.

“According to the National Pesticide Information Center from the Oregon State University, there is no evidence of any long-term or short-term effects to glyphosate on the human population nor to the animal population.”

“I had an issue with us putting an opinion in a document like this,” Gill said.

Mayor Tim Callison said he agreed that the first two lines of the resolution could be struck and changes could be made to say the chemical can remain in the environment for a long time and can affect the local flora.

Councilmember Craig Cyr recommended tabling the resolution. Councilmember Christy Korrow, who helped draft the resolution with the mayor, was absent from the meeting.

The council voted 4-0 to table the resolution.