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Health director details plan to remove 300–400‑rat colony near downtown dumpsters
Summary
Health Director Jim Philbrook told the board that a large rat colony—estimated at about 300–400 animals—has developed near dumpsters across from Ted's/Dunkin' Donuts; the board described a coordinated remediation using licensed applicators, sealed containment of captured animals and temporary closures, with property owner YATCO funding the contractor.
The Chatham Board of Health spent an extended portion of its April 7 meeting on a large rodent infestation in the downtown core. Health Director Jim Philbrook told the board there is "a colony of probably 3 or 400 rats" hiding in bushes and around multiple dumpsters near Ted's and Dunkin' Donuts and described an aggressive, coordinated response.
Philbrook outlined the planned operation: licensed pest applicators will double up bait stations, use backhoe excavation to remove nest material, and employ temporary barriers to funnel animals into sealed collection barrels that a licensed applicator will then remove. He said owner YATCO will hire and pay the contractor and that nearby businesses will need to close while crews work to prevent rats from being driven into adjacent buildings. "We're gonna have to close them for the time that he's doing it," Philbrook said, adding that cameras and additional pest control technicians will be on site.
Board members emphasized public‑safety and containment concerns. Members discussed how the animals are being attracted to dumpsters and suggested improved dumpster management (lids, tighter handling of food waste) and removal of bushes that provide shelter. Philbrook said the board will observe the operation and keep the public informed about timing.
The board did not pass an enforcement order at the meeting; Philbrook noted the board has authority to require pest control prior to building demolition or other activities that would displace animals into nearby structures.
