Residents of a Stow neighborhood are raising concerns about an influx of wildlife, including skunks and groundhogs, attributed to nearby construction projects. During a recent city council meeting, a long-time resident shared her experience of dealing with two baby skunks that cost her nearly $700 to remove. She highlighted the growing problem of unwelcome wildlife, exacerbated by new developments like the Vitalia project and additional industrial construction along Hudson Drive.

The resident noted that while they appreciate some wildlife, such as birds and squirrels, the increasing number of groundhogs—eight in her immediate area—has led to property damage due to tunneling. She expressed frustration over the lack of city support for wildlife abatement, especially for residents on fixed incomes who cannot afford the costs associated with wildlife removal.

In her plea to the council, she suggested that the city could implement awareness campaigns to discourage residents from feeding wildlife, which she believes attracts more animals into the community. She proposed that simple reminders could be included on utility bills to educate residents about the impact of their actions on local wildlife populations.

The resident also mentioned the presence of coyotes and the potential health risks posed by these animals, urging the city to consider appointing a dedicated wildlife control officer to address the growing issue. Her comments reflect a broader concern among residents about the balance between urban development and the management of local wildlife, emphasizing the need for proactive solutions to ensure community safety and well-being.