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Resident tells council coyotes have become aggressive; city staff to follow up with law enforcement
Summary
A West Melbourne resident described increasing coyote aggression—attacks on pets and residents avoiding leaving their homes—and said county animal control and state wildlife agencies were unresponsive; the mayor asked the police chief to follow up and collect contact information for further action.
During the public-forum portion of the meeting, Cynthia Poole (244 Sylvia Road) described escalating problems with coyotes in her neighborhood: she said they have killed chickens and cats, are pinning people inside their homes, and one animal has become aggressive enough that her family feels unsafe letting children outside.
Poole said she contacted the county sheriff’s office, which directed her to Florida Fish and Wildlife, and that state wildlife representatives told her they could not take action; she said she was then told by others to contact a private trapper, which would require payment. "They're getting aggressive...they're pinning people in their houses," Poole said, adding she has two babies and fears for their safety.
Mayor Mary Young and staff responded that animal control is a county responsibility but asked the police chief to gather Poole’s contact information so the city can review whether any local assistance or coordination with county animal-control authorities is possible. No formal action or policy change was taken at the meeting; staff said they would follow up with the resident and report back.
Next steps: the chief will contact Cynthia Poole to collect details and the city will coordinate with county animal control as appropriate.
