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Committee discusses resident complaints about deer feeding, possible public-awareness campaign
Summary
Committee members reviewed a co-signed resident letter about people feeding deer, asked what reporting options exist, and discussed a public-awareness campaign and coordination with DEC.
Members of the Oneonta Quality of Life and Infrastructure Committee described receiving a co-signed letter from residents who reported neighbors feeding deer and expressed concern about the impacts on wildlife and neighborhoods.
A council member asked what reporting options residents have and whether the city and the Deer Management Task Force could mount a public-awareness campaign explaining why feeding deer can harm both animals and people. Staff and committee members discussed channeling information through council offices and the city’s social media accounts, and suggested sharing Department of Environmental Conservation contact information so residents know where to report incidents.
Committee members raised options such as signage, social media posts, and a short educational video; one member cautioned that static signs can deteriorate and lose effectiveness if not maintained. The committee agreed staff would circulate suggested messaging and contact information for reporting so council members can distribute it and consider broader outreach next season.
No formal enforcement action was taken during the meeting; committee members asked staff to draft guidance on reporting and outreach and to coordinate with the Deer Management Task Force and DEC where appropriate.
