Hamilton committee to tackle Gore Park rat issue

A committee meeting in downtown Hamilton Thursday afternoon is set to address various topics such as minor repairs and pest control in Gore Park. The meeting is expected to start at 1:30 p.m. and will cover noise control, pedestrian safety as well as provide residents with an update when it comes to urban pest control in Gore Park including rats, pigeons and other wildlife. The city released a report noting that rat populations are challenging to maintain and remove entirely. In November of last year, staff were asked to look into measures to reduce the rat population downtown. Hamilton has been working to reduce access to food, water and shelter by maintaining plant beds where burrowing happens and picking up litter. However, the city finds that the current method to reduce the rat population is strategic bait trapping. The committee says some ideas to be considered in next year's budget include additional education, signage and enforcement which is estimated to cost around $40,000. In this meeting, they’ll also review the $10,000 Night Guide Pilot Project that was launched during the Junos to help inform the city's broader night-time strategy. Over four nights, a team of six guides provided a safe, approachable presence downtown, successfully assisting over 200 people with transportation advice and general support. Additionally, the city plans to discuss the Jarvis Memorial Clock Tower as it will cost a minimum of $150,000 to restore and repair a long neglected municipal memorial clock tower on King Street East at Jarvis Street.