The people who manage Town Center Corte Madera have lived in Marin their whole lives. Like most, they’ve grown familiar with the ever-present risk of drought. That’s why, since at least 2016, General Manager Monty Stephens said the town center has contemplated an overhaul to outdoor landscaping – shifting to a cleaner aesthetic look, coupled with lower water use and drought-tolerant landscaping. 

It was an important step – especially after undertaking major renovations at the highly visible shopping center tucked between Madera Boulevard and Highway 101. So by the time a Marin Water mailer extolling the benefits of ditching grass reached Facilities Director Mara Passetti’s home mailbox, Town Center Corte Madera was already working on plans to do just that. 

“I think it’s important for a large business owner in this community to put the right foot forward when it comes to water conservation,” said Monty. 

Marin Water’s Cash for Grass program offers rebates for every square foot of grass removed, and the program isn’t just for residential customers. Town Center Corte Madera is just the latest large, commercial entity to take advantage of the program, replacing 5,700 square feet of grass with low-water-use plants and water-saving mulch in early September. As of Jan. 1, 2025, this cash incentive ranges from $3.68 to $4.68 per square foot, with the higher rebate reserved for customers who follow best practices as part of the replacement process. 

Mara said the process was simple and straightforward, and Town Center Corte Madera expects to see cost savings on the site’s water bills in addition to the rebate for grass removal. Better yet: Mara said plans call for continuing the new landscape style throughout the site’s exterior spaces. For the business owners who have praised the work and asked if it’s going to continue, that’s a welcome answer! 

“We’re delighted to bring a sustainable feel and look to the property,” Monty said. “It’s the right thing to do in this environment.”