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Residents press council on deer, tick‑borne disease; request temporary allowances for electric deterrents
Summary
Multiple residents urged the city to allow temporary electric fencing or other deterrents to reduce deer presence and tick exposure; staff said electrified fences are prohibited by city code and recommended zoning or Board of Appeals routes for variance.
North Canton — Several residents at the July 14 public comment period urged the City Council to allow electric exclusion measures to reduce deer‑related tick exposure and garden damage. Residents described recent tick‑borne illness in pets and people and asked the city to permit a trial exclusion system in wooded areas backing residential lots.
Residents Mark Christine and Alexander Premise described installing battery‑powered temporary electric deterrents in wooded perimeter areas and reported declines in local deer presence. They said the devices are low voltage, typically a yellow plastic tape style used on farms, and argued the measure disrupts deer access without injuring animals.
Council and staff response: Administration staff and council members said city code prohibits the electrification of fences. One staff member (legal/administration) pointed out the prohibition is a criminal code offense in the city ordinance and that changing the rule would require council action. Staff suggested residents use the Board of Zoning Appeals or other formal variance procedures to pursue exceptions, or explore wildlife management alternatives such as capture and relocation or state wildlife nuisance options.
Public health context: Residents cited tick‑borne diseases (including Lyme and other pathogens) affecting pets and people and urged a solution because repeated tick illnesses have required veterinary and medical care. Council members expressed sympathy and acknowledged complexity: some residents oppose lethal removal and others worry that allowing electrified fences citywide could shift deer into other neighborhoods or create safety risks if children encounter energized lines.
Next steps: Council and staff offered to continue the conversation, explore reasonable mitigation alternatives and, if residents wish to pursue a code amendment or variance, to provide guidance on procedures and potential liability and safety considerations.
