City of Hamilton apologizes for unresolved pest control complaints

City of Hamilton staff have apologized for their inaction on pest control complaints made during and following the COVID-19 pandemic.

The apology comes after Mayor Andrea Horwath’s response to a CBC Hamilton article saying the city hasn’t responded to pest control complaints for over four years.

Horwath urged city officials to apologize and resume bylaw enforcement.

This is completely shocking and unacceptable. I’ve told City staff I expect an apology to the public and immediate measures to address this issue and restart bylaw enforcement. Council and I will work together to make sure this situation is addressed. https://t.co/upDrRVGRNP

— Andrea Horwath (@AndreaHorwath) August 3, 2023

The city says pest control investigations were paused in March 2020 to redeploy staff for the pandemic.

Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Hamilton’s medical health officer, says the city recognizes the significant distress and discomfort caused by pest infestations.

The city has assigned a bylaw officer to address pest control complaints starting next week.

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