Anacortes Council hires falconer to mitigate seagull nesting at City Hall

The Anacortes City Council convened on March 24, 2025, addressing key community issues and initiatives that resonate with local residents. One of the standout moments of the meeting was the introduction of a unique solution to manage the seagull population nesting on City Hall. Caitlin O'Neil, a professional falconer, presented her work using trained birds of prey, specifically a Harris hawk named Crash, to deter the seagulls. This approach aims to maintain the aesthetic and functional integrity of the building without resorting to harmful extermination methods. O'Neil emphasized that the goal is to scare the birds away rather than harm them, which aligns with community values of humane wildlife management.

In addition to the falconry presentation, the council discussed ongoing projects and community engagement efforts. The planning committee reported on the local subdivision process and the importance of stormwater design in preliminary plat approvals. They also highlighted an upcoming North Star Symposium scheduled for June 6, which will focus on homelessness and housing issues, featuring a keynote by Greg Colburn, author of "Homelessness is a Housing Problem."

Public comments during the meeting reflected residents' concerns about transparency and communication from the council. Teresa Baker urged the council to provide regular written updates on ongoing projects and decisions, expressing a desire for clearer communication to combat misinformation circulating in the community. Another resident, Shihua Mu, emphasized the need for improved public engagement in the comprehensive plan's climate element, advocating for more accessible information and participation opportunities.

The council's commitment to addressing these community concerns, alongside innovative solutions like falconry for bird abatement, illustrates their ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life in Anacortes. As the council prepares for its next meeting on April 7, residents can look forward to continued discussions on these vital issues.