MELROSE, Mass. — The Melrose City Council voted in favor of stricter trash disposal measures to address the surge in rat sightings across the community. The modified trash ordinance includes requiring that all trash outside be placed in containers with tight-fitting lids. It applies to any trash can left outside whether it’s on the curb or not.
The issue discussed during a virtual meeting on Monday night comes after months of increasing complaints from neighbors across Melrose. Boston 25 News spoke with neighbors about the issue last month and attended an informational meeting with the health department.
Residents said the problem only seems to be getting worse by the week.
“I feel like the amount of rats has quadrupled. Some are the size of cats,” said neighbor Maria Berardi.
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Berardi believes Monday night’s vote is a small step but still wants to see the city do more to address the problem.
“It’s getting cold. They’re going to chew their way through houses, garages, sheds, cars!” Berardi said.
Other neighbors told Boston 25 News they feel they are being unfairly accused by the city of contributing to the problem.
Those residents received certified letters from the city for various violations. They’ve been warned of daily $50 fines and even the potential of a criminal complaint for failure to comply.
“They said we had rat burrows. I don’t know where they’re coming up with that,” said neighbor Carolyn Payton. “Selective prosecution is what we feel is happening.”
Melrose City Council members acknowledged during Monday night’s meeting how prolific the pests have become across the community. The modified measure that was voted on is set to take effect on March 1, 2022 as long as it’s signed off by Mayor Paul Brodeur. It includes improved trash pick-up in addition to disposal.
Boston 25 News reached out to the mayor’s office for comment ahead of Monday night’s report but did not hear back.