Dane Martin urges Chandler council to enact bird feeding nuisance ordinance

During the recent Chandler City Council study session, resident Dane Martin addressed the council, urging them to consider a nuisance bird feeding ordinance. Martin, a homeowner in Chandler, expressed concerns about the negative impacts of excessive bird feeding in his neighborhood, which he claims has escalated into a public health issue.

Martin described how a neighbor's well-intentioned bird feeding has attracted large flocks of non-native birds, such as pigeons and starlings, leading to significant property damage and health risks. He reported that the accumulation of bird droppings has not only soiled his home but also contributed to costly repairs, including a $24,000 roof replacement due to damage from feces. Additionally, Martin highlighted the emergence of rats in the area, drawn by leftover bird seed, which poses further health risks as these rodents can carry diseases transmissible to humans.

The resident emphasized that while enjoying nature is important, unregulated feeding practices can have detrimental effects on the community, including lowered property values and health threats to families and pets. He called for the council to establish limits on bird feeding to prevent irresponsible behavior that could lead to infestations and harm.

Martin's appeal aligns with similar measures taken by neighboring cities like Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, and Scottsdale, which have already implemented regulations to address this issue. The council's response to Martin's concerns remains to be seen, but his testimony underscores a growing need for local governance to balance community enjoyment of wildlife with public health and safety considerations.