Policy Order O-3

WHEREAS: The City of Cambridge has implemented many strategies in an attempt to control the rodent population within the city and acknowledges the efforts currently underway and the City's responsiveness on this issue; and

WHEREAS: Many of these strategies have been effective. For example, changes in the litter & refuse ordinance(s); creation of the dumpster ordinance(s); improved coordination among city departments; the placement within squares and parks closed trash containers (Big Belly); the publishing of an online rodent-control pamphlet; the creation of an online rodent reporting system; and increased

WHEREAS: Despite these efforts the rodent population within the city continues to increase (perhaps due to widespread availability of food; mild winters; and increased construction on both MBTA properties and private properties); and

WHEREAS: Residents and property owners must work in concert to reduce the urban rodent population; and

WHEREAS: There are further strategies the City of Cambridge and residents might employ such as:

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to work together with Inspectional Services, the Department of Public Works, the Law Department, the Public Information Department, the Public Health Department and a group of concerned residents and property owners to explore action on the above suggestions; and be it further

ORDERED: That the city provide updates on reported rodents locations and activity via map and/or charts; and be it further

ORDERED: That the City Manager be and hereby is requested to report back to the City Council as soon as possible.