A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to a proposed ordinance aimed at prohibiting the use of second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides on city-owned properties. The ordinance was spurred by environmental concerns about the detrimental effects of these chemicals on local wildlife, especially raptors. Alyssa, a wildlife rehabilitator, addressed the committee, stressing the grave consequences these rodenticides have on birds such as hawks and owls, which are important for natural rodent control. Alyssa illustrated the issue with specific cases of wildlife poisoning, including a family of red fox kits and several hawks that suffered due to secondary poisoning from consuming poisoned rodents.

Alyssa introduced Bella, an owl, as an example of the natural role these creatures play in managing rodent populations. She pointed out that a family of owls could consume up to 5,000 rodents annually. She proposed alternative rodent control methods, including maintaining clean dumpsters, using rodent birth control, sealing trash bins, and utilizing contained snap traps. The committee responded positively to Alyssa’s presentation, recognizing the need to protect wildlife and acknowledging the risks posed to domestic animals.

Counselor Roby acknowledged the ordinance’s limitations, noting it wouldn’t affect rodenticide use on private properties but emphasized the importance of public education on alternative rodent control methods. The committee discussed the ordinance in detail, considering several clerical amendments, such as renumbering chapters and removing sections allowing emergency waivers for rodenticide use. Counselor Filla expressed full support for the ordinance and confirmed that the city had used rodenticides in the past but had stopped following an incident involving an owl.

The committee decided to present the amended ordinance at the next city council meeting and refer it to the legal department for formatting.

Another topic at the meeting was the approval of a fund transfer request from Mayor Dumis to enhance the city’s recreational facilities. The committee discussed transferring $41,533.50 from the senior clerk salary line item to the equipment and supplies youth activities line item within the recreation department. This transfer was intended to fund equipment and field upgrades at the William Street ball fields, including Duke Field, which had been criticized for its poor condition.

Mayor Dumis had emphasized the importance of these enhancements in attracting tournaments and boosting the city’s recreational appeal. Director Tibo supported the initiative, explaining that the improvements were finishing touches on previous renovations aimed at making the fields more attractive for hosting tournaments. Councilor Fill agreed, noting the importance of these improvements for attracting tournament teams and enhancing the city’s recreational offerings.

The committee debated the appropriateness of using city funds for league-specific equipment versus general field improvements. Director Tibo clarified that the transfer was a strategic reallocation of funds from a vacant senior clerk position to address immediate needs. This approach was praised by the committee for its creativity and stance.

The discussion shifted to the potential economic benefits of hosting tournaments, with Tibo mentioning that field usage fees would help offset costs while boosting local tourism. The committee acknowledged the strategic planning involved and the importance of maintaining communication between the recreation department and local youth organizations. The motion to approve the transfer request was seconded, with consensus on the need for continued investment in the city’s recreational facilities.

Finally, the committee also discussed the transfer of $346,51.93 from reserves for salaries to fund collective bargaining agreements with three unions. The mayor’s letter acknowledged ongoing negotiations with some unions, and committee members expressed support for the transfer, noting the substantial effort in negotiating agreements for city employees. The motion to approve the transfer request passed with a unanimous vote.