Council splits crow‑abatement costs with downtown group, approves $26,800 city share

The City Council voted to fund half of a downtown crow‑abatement contract after brief discussion about equitable coverage.

Why it matters: the crow‑abatement service—intended to reduce large bird congregations that cause sanitation and downtown‑cleanup issues—covers commercial corridors and adjacent areas; the cost decision sets a precedent for who pays for pest deterrence in public corridors.

Details of the vote and rationale: - Proposal: staff presented a downtown request to fund crow‑abatement to reduce bird congregations downtown and nearby commercial areas. The total contract discussed at the dais was split in half, with downtown/Main Street to cover one half and the city to cover one half. - Council debate: some members questioned equitability because the spray or abatement service also benefits businesses outside the immediate downtown core. Others emphasized that the service benefits all who use public areas and helps protect the downtown business environment. - Vote outcome: council approved a motion to pay $26,800 (half of the presented contract figure) toward the crow‑abatement program and request downtown stakeholders to pay the remaining $26,800; the motion passed on a 4–1 vote.

Ending: the council’s finance and procurement staff will implement the payment and contract direction and coordinate with downtown Main Street on the shared funding and service area.