Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety Wildlife topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council discusses coyote concerns; directs staff to prepare public education materials rather than pursue ordinance immediately
Summary
Council reviewed options to address coyote encounters — education, deterrence and an ordinance model — and agreed to start with a public education flyer and community outreach; staff warned that hunting is restricted inside city limits and that resources are limited for relocation or removal programs.
The council discussed community concerns about coyotes in residential areas and whether the city should adopt an ordinance or take other measures. Staff outlined options used by other California cities—public education, deterrence strategies, removal policies and ordinances—and cautioned that firearms are prohibited inside city limits, limiting hunting as a solution.
City staff said the city’s resources are limited for wildlife management and that coyotes are a natural species in the Mojave Desert habitat surrounding Needles. The staff presentation proposed steps including a community coyote plan, public workshops and an educational flyer that can be included in utility billing and general outreach.
Council members and residents emphasized education and personal preventive measures: securing pet food, supervising small pets at night and reporting incidents. Multiple speakers recommended outreach rather than a costly ordinance or relocation program. The council voted to proceed with public education materials and community outreach and to return to council with options if incidents escalate or funding becomes available.
No ordinance was adopted at the meeting; staff will prepare an educational mailing, flyers and a community workshop plan.
