Blair, Wisconsin Tackles Rat Infestation
The city of Blair is taking action against a rat infestation reported at a residence on West Broadway Street, not far from the Dollar General store. This issue prompted city officials to convene an emergency meeting on Tuesday to outline the necessary steps for abatement.
Blair Police Chief Kent Johnson was made aware of the rat situation last week after being contacted by a concerned neighbor.
As of Wednesday at 12:15 p.m., the city will commence its eradication efforts at the affected home.
Concerns Over Structure and Fire Hazard
During the emergency meeting, Johnson noted that there are structural and fire safety issues inside the house. He mentioned that the porch floor has collapsed, and a crack in the foundation has allowed rats to infiltrate the walls. Consequently, some belongings of the homeowner will need to be removed by professional cleaning services.
For the time being, the homeowner will remain on the property. Johnson has also reached out to a local landlord with a vacant apartment as an alternative if the homeowner needs it.
Imminent Threat to Public Health Declared
County health officials have also gotten involved in the situation. According to Johnson, the property has been classified as posing an imminent threat to public health. The Trempealeau County Department of Health has officially declared the home a risk, yet the homeowner is still permitted to stay there for now while other housing options are available.
The CDC has noted that rats can transmit various diseases directly to humans, which can occur through handling the rodents or coming into contact with their droppings, urine, or saliva. Additionally, rats may carry fleas, ticks, or mites that can spread diseases. Illnesses associated with rodents include leptospirosis, rat-bite fever, salmonellosis, and hantavirus, as per CDC guidelines.
To prevent rat infestations, the CDC suggests eliminating food, water, and other attractants that might lure rodents in the first place.
Nearby residents can also take steps to protect themselves, such as taking in bird feeders, securing trash, keeping pets leashed, and trimming overgrown vegetation.
Homeowner’s Cooperation with Cleanup
The homeowner has begun clearing space in the garage and has consented to have overgrown shrubs removed from the yard.
Johnson stated, “The property owner is being 100% compliant with everything that we’re doing.” He has placed a combination of rat bait and killer in eight spots on the property. Pest control company Ecolab is set to start an intensive, multi-phase treatment on Thursday, which will also extend to the surrounding block.
The homeowner has expressed embarrassment regarding the situation but is fully cooperating. The county health department is also assisting the homeowner throughout the cleanup process.
Despite the property’s poor condition, Johnson indicated that he does not intend to issue any citations at this time. “While there are potential citations we could impose, I don’t see a benefit in doing so given the circumstances,” he remarked. “My aim in law enforcement is voluntary compliance, and citations are reserved for those who resist that.”
The cleanup efforts are projected to cost tens of thousands of dollars. The city plans to cover the initial expenses, with the homeowner repaying the city via adjusted taxes later.
While there isn’t a formal donation fund established yet, Johnson mentioned that anyone wanting to help can contact his office directly. “Let’s show some compassion for our neighbor. This is Blair. We are a community—friends, family, and neighbors—who work and play together, looking after one another,” he emphasized.
Next Steps
The abatement process is expected to continue for the next two weeks, with the Trempealeau County Department of Health following up on the property in about 30 days.
Johnson is looking to recruit volunteers, some of whom have already expressed their willingness to provide physical and financial support.
A link to the fundraising effort will be shared through WEAU once it is available.
