At a Thursday night Troy City Council meeting, officials weighed a proposed contract with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) valued at just over $13,000. The agreement would fund a five‑day, dusk‑time operation to deter large flocks of crows that have become a nuisance in recent years, according to Mayor Carmella Mantello.
Mayor cites dramatic increase in crow activity
“We are seeing 10,000 to 15,000 crows and the droppings we didn’t see in prior years,” Mantello said. “The USDA would be our call to use them.” The mayor emphasized that the birds are not being harmed; instead, the USDA plans to employ crow distress calls, bird whistles, spotlights and non‑harmful lasers to encourage the birds to relocate.
USDA explains non‑lethal methods
USDA District Supervisor Ken Preusser answered council questions about the tactics, stating, “We do not harm the crows or frighten them. We use crow distress calls, bird whistles, spotlights, and non‑harmful lasers.” He added that, if approved, the agency would issue a press release to alert residents of the five‑day removal process, which would occur at dusk when the birds are roosting.
Parents raise concerns about noise and light
City Council President Sue Steele highlighted worries from families, particularly those with children who have autism or other special needs. “We have heard from several parents of children with special needs, particularly autism, who are triggered by loud noises and bright lights,” Steele said. Preusser acknowledged the concern, noting that the USDA intends to provide advance notice to avoid surprising the public with the methods.
Council has not yet voted
Steele reminded residents that the council has not made a final decision and will continue to review the logistics of the contract. “It is very important for the public to know that the council has not made a decision regarding this,” she said, urging community members to submit comments before the vote scheduled for November 5.
What the contract means for Troy
Should the council approve the agreement, the USDA’s five‑day program would aim to reduce crow droppings on sidewalks, parks and public buildings, improving cleanliness and public health. The non‑lethal approach aligns with the city’s commitment to humane wildlife management while addressing the practical concerns of residents.
Next steps
Residents are encouraged to attend the upcoming council meeting on November 5 or submit written feedback to the city clerk’s office. The council will consider the USDA’s proposed methods, the cost to taxpayers, and the potential impact on families before casting a vote.
Original reporting: CBS 6 WRGB Albany (local) — read the source article.
