Mayor's Desk: Coyotes and Preparing For Winter

End of Summer

A TV weatherman referred to this weekend of Sept. 18-19 as: "The last weekend of summer," almost as if it was the end of the world. It depends on how you look at it, doesn't it? Beach time is over, but how many of us spent that much time at the beach anyway? Great days of good weather are still coming, including Indian Summer. We can still feel the warmth of the sun, and go outside without a coat.  Which leads me into the next topic… 

Sprinkler Systems

I had a 6 a.m. meeting this Wednesday, so left my house at 5:15. Four of my neighbors had their lawn sprinklers going and I observed six other lawns also being watered. And that was on just part of my route. According to the Westchester Joint Water Works manager, there is a very heavy "drawdown" of water from 4 - 7 a.m., which he attributes  primarily to sprinkler systems. In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in the number of such systems. 

Why am I bringing this up now?  Because the WJWW has found that many of these systems have leaks, and not just in the summer. The homeowners only learn of the leaks when they get very high water bills. Even after the systems are shut off for the winter, there is still a possibility of problems happening due to breaks in the pipes. 

During the winter, if there is any break in the seal at a connection for a sprinkler head, ground water can seep in. When that water freezes, the pipe can rupture, or the break in the seal can be widened.  Come spring, when you turn the system back on, those leaks will be enlarged by the water pressure, and your water bill will become an unwelcome surprise. 

What can you do? Check the connections before you shut off the system.   

NOTE: I thought you might like to know that, in summer 2009, there were homes in town that, for the summer months, had a water bill over $9,000—just for the three summer months. Fairly large properties, but still … And 2009 was a summer with good rainfall. We do like our perfect, green, lawns!  I look at our water bill, and then accept the brown spots in the lawn.

Coyotes

Harrison has not had the coyote problems that our neighboring communities have had. There have been few sightings, and no attacks on residents. To ensure our safety, it would be helpful if you would notify the police if you see any coyotes, and report their location and behavior. 967-5111, EXT "0."  As has been pointed out, most coyotes are harmless, but it would be helpful if we know their locations throughout town.  I have not recently seen the two in our backyard but I expect that to change as the leaves fall.  If you see one, remember that as it has been stated: noise scares them away.      

Thank you for your help.