Thank you to everyone who attended the Rat Walk last week on our block, West 71st Street. Through the efforts of several offices, including Gale Brewer and Scott Stringer, we were joined by representatives of the Department of Health and the Department of Sanitation. Thanks also to Penny Ryan of CB 7, who has been providing much support and information!
We found many issues that are contributing to our rat problem. We found a lot of holes (violations) which need to be plugged up and trash cans with loose lids, and areas where loose trash was found.
The first step is cleaning up and sealing up. Some areas were much worse than others, with several buildings where we found rat feces, holes, and other evidence of rats. We also observed scurrying rats and one dead rat.
The info we compiled will be reviewed for accuracy by the rep from Dept. of Health, and then be used in a a letter to be drafted and mailed to property owners who are in violation or who could help by taking certain steps. This will probably be a joint letter sent by Council Member Brewer and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer. These owners will be asked to take certain actions and then the Dept. of Health will check within a week or two to see if they have complied.
We have been advised by DOH to call 311 whenever we see a violation or sign of rats.
Please let us know if any rat problem areas your want us to be aware of. We will keep you posted as to our progress.
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