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1. Why am I seeing an increase in the number of rats in my neighborhood?

There has been a consistent increase in the number of rats seen at this time of year. There are a couple of reasons:
Weather - The weather is changing and rats are seeking warmer habitats.

Construction - The increase in construction displaces rats and mice from their natural habitat.

2. What is the city doing to get rid of the rats?

The city is limited in what we can do. There are several reasons for this:
Expertise - The State of Texas requires anyone (other than private homeowners on their own property) to have an exterminators license. The city does not have staff with that license.

Private Property - The city cannot enter private property to exterminate. We would have to have permission from each property owner. Placing baits or traps on right of way would only cause the rodents to move to private property.

Risks - Setting traps or placing poisons could pose a risk for pets or children.

3. Does that mean the city isn't going to do anything?

No. It is the city's job to provide information to residents on ways to address the problem. City staff does this with press releases, web entries, and communications with homeowner associations. We are working on means to address the rodents that come from the agricultural fields. We are open to other suggestions and are working on ideas to help with the problem.

4. What does the city do on its own property?

The Parks and Recreation Department contracts with an exterminator for rodent control in parks. The city does not have anyone certified by the state to handle those types of issues.

5. How do residents address the problem?

The best method is to work with your neighbors and Homeowners Association in a concerted effort.