Saddle Brook Takes Action Against Growing Rat Problem

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Saddle Brook NJ, Saddle Brook officials are ramping up efforts to combat a rising rat problem following an increase in reported sightings across the township. In response to these concerns, Mayor Robert White addressed the community, acknowledging the growing issue and outlining the steps being taken to address it.

Increase in Rat Sightings Across Neighborhoods

Over the past six to eight weeks, Saddle Brook residents from several neighborhoods have reported an increase in rat sightings. Mayor White noted that around 10 residents have contacted the township to report these incidents. While rat complaints were isolated to the northern section near the Fair Lawn border last year, this year’s sightings have shifted southward, concentrated within a 10-block radius of residential properties.

Possible Causes and Regional Impact

Although the exact cause of the increased rat activity is unclear, experts suggest that a stormwater drainage pipe replacement project in Fair Lawn, combined with recent flash flooding, may have displaced the rodents, forcing them into more populated areas. Mayor White also mentioned that neighboring towns, including Elmwood Park, Maywood, and Fort Lee, are facing similar issues. However, Fair Lawn officials reported no recent rat issues within their borough.

Crackdown on Property Maintenance

In an effort to curb the rat population, Saddle Brook has begun enforcing stricter property maintenance regulations. Health officials are investigating each complaint, ensuring that homeowners maintain their properties to avoid creating environments conducive to rat infestations. Property owners who fail to comply with clean-up directives may face further action.

Community Engagement and Education

To address the community’s concerns and provide further guidance, the Township Council has scheduled a public information session on Thursday, September 5, at 5:30 p.m. at the municipal complex on Mayhill Street. This forum will give residents the opportunity to ask questions, while Mayor White aims to gain more insight into why the rat problem has escalated and how best to control it.

The township is also focused on educating residents about the importance of proper home maintenance and the risks of attempting to deal with rat infestations without professional help. Mayor White expressed his concern about homeowners using potentially harmful chemicals or tools without adequate knowledge, which could pose significant health and safety risks.

Taking Steps Toward Prevention

Saddle Brook is committed to eliminating the rat problem, but Mayor White emphasized that community involvement is crucial. He encouraged residents to take preventative measures to keep rats out of their homes. The Saddle Brook Health Department website offers a comprehensive list of tips for rat prevention, including eliminating food sources, removing potential shelters, and sealing entry points.

Mayor White underscored the importance of collective action, saying, “It’s disturbing to me, and I really would love to resolve this and eliminate the problem if possible.”

By working together, Saddle Brook hopes to effectively address the rat problem and restore peace of mind to its residents.

 

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