City says it can cause damage to property, and hurt animals
A tougher stance being taken by the City of Thorold to stop people from feeding wildlife.
A motion by Councillor Tim O'Hare pointed out this can cause damage to property and the health of animals.
Councillor Carmen DeRose revealed some of the conversations he's had with people. "Even relatives of mine, most of them are seniors... I told them how bad it is to draw in the rodents, and they continue to do it. I don't know how that's going to sit with a lot of seniors in town, but that's the right thing to do."
City staff says an existing by-law could be amended, giving authority to enter a residential property.
Councillor Mike De Divitiis says one of his friends had a problem.
"Phoned the people who deal with this problem, and they came down there, and the first thing they said was to stop feeding the birds, stop feeding the squirrels. The neighbours have been doing it, nothing but rats, rodents, problems like crazy. Unfortunately we all love animals, but you have to think for your neighbourhood, and your city."
Mayor Terry Ugulini added it's mainly an urban problem.