East Providence Seeks To Control Excessive Rat Problem

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI —East Providence officials are hoping that better trash receptacles will help reduce the rodent problem that has plagues parts of the city.

Ready access to food sources, such as improperly disposed trash, is one thing that attracts rats. The Mayor's Office has worked with the trash collector, MEGA, on ways to provide residents with large trash carts similar to the ones residents use for recycling as part of the city's next proposed contract with the company.

"Rodents are not only a nuisance in our city because the damage they cause to property but they also can transmit diseases," Mayor Bob DaSilva said. "I have met with concerned residents on multiple occasions and have seen firsthand how they have been impacted. That is why I am thrilled that we will be able to put these preventative measures in place with help from MEGA."

The Mayor's Office said the city was able to negotiate a $163,000 savings for the carts, which will be repaid over 60 months with no interest to the city. Under the proposal, each resident will receive a car for trash disposal as part of the MEGA contract extension proposal that will go before the City Council for ratification.