Page 2 THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, SEpTEmbER 19, 2025 City Council seek solution to citywide rodent problem; cite construction “W By Neil Zolot e have a big citywide problem with rodent infestation,” Ward 5 Councillor and mayoral candidate Robert Van Campen said at the City Council meeting on Monday, September 8. “It’s a worldwide issue, not just Everett,” Director of Inspectional Services David Palumbo told him. “It’s a tough battle.” Van Campen and a couple of other city councillors said they have received complaints and comments from residents in their wards and around the city. Ward 1 Councillor Wayne Matewsky asked Palumbo to 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! look at a situation on Cottage Street in response to constituent complaints possibly related to sloppy trash. Trash and development seem to be the primary causes of rodent infestation. “Overbuilding causes this problem,” Councillor-at-Large Guerline Alcy Jabouin feels. “When you disturb their habitat, they have to fi nd someplace to go, usually into people’s houses. Its unfair homeowners have to pay to deal with an issue they inherited from excess construction. We need something in place to help homeowners.” Palumbo reported developers are required to assess the rodent situation at their sites before breaking ground for construction “to see if there’s burrowing or if they need to pre-bait (often with rodenticide) before they break ground.” They also need to submit a Pest Management Plan to the state Department of Agricultural Resources and must continue control measures at their own expense. “Yes, it’s developments, but it’s also how people keep their property and put out their trash,” Councillor-at-Large Stephanie Smith commented. “We need to keep looking at repeat off enders. There are property owners who don’t keep up their property and there’s overcrowding in apartments. I have to bait because of the problem.” “We aren’t putting out enough trash receptacles,” Van Campen added. “We’ve seen a rash of speed bumps, but not receptacles. We need more in public places, and we could do more with code enforcement. I see the trash routes and we’re not doing enough to make sure lids are completely shut. I keep hearing from the same neighborhoods. It might help some neighborhoods.” Palumbo answered that eight receptacles or toters are distributed per property. He also said the City off ers a free, one-time baiting service for homes and baits in daycare centers and schools. Homeowners wishing for more treatment must bear the cost, perhaps leading to under 10% ordering more service with the City’s subcontractors. “People don’t want to pay,” he admitted. Alcy Jabouin argued, “Several homeowners agree once will not be able to take care of the issue, unless you have a cat. Homeowners need help with this more than once.” She also suggested that notices on trash disposal procedures be RODENT PROBLEM | SEE PAGE 9 City of Everett Seeks Poll Workers for Upcoming Municipal Election Residents encouraged to apply for a wide range of election roles E www.810bargrille.com Cedar impression half rounds Harvey Vinyl Replacement Windows Custom Aluminum Trim work Windows & Doors Top quality Vinyl Siding! •Vinyl Siding •Carpentry Work •Decks •Roofing •Free Estimates •Replacement Windows •Fully Licensed •Fully Insured Everett Aluminum Supplies pp Celebrating 66 Years in Business Since 1958! VERETT, MA – Mayor Carlo DeMaria is pleased to announce that the City of Everett is seeking residents to serve as poll workers for the upcoming municipal election. Poll workers play an essential role in ensuring that the election process is conducted effi ciently, fairly and in accordance with all applicable laws. The City is off ering a variety of paid positions for the upcoming election. Duties may include greeting voters, verifying voter information, assisting with ballots and ensuring compliance with election procedures. The City is especially encouraging bilingual speakers to apply in order to best serve Everett’s diverse community. Applications are being accepted through Monday, October 20, 2025. Interested individuals may apply at Everett City Hall, Human Resources Department, 484 Broadway (3rd Floor, Room 32). The department is open Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. For more information, please contact the Human Resources Department at 617-394-2280 or email Human.Resources@ ci.everett.ma.us. Monogram D4 Double siding
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