The Town of Gander is taking coordinated steps to respond to concerns raised by residents about property conditions and rodent activity in some areas of the community. The Town recognizes that this is a sensitive and frustrating issue and assures residents that it is being handled carefully and responsibly.
Following the Special Council Meeting held today at 1PM, the Town of Gander has approved the issuance of a Removal and Remediation Order for the property located at 30 Byrd Avenue.
Multiple concerns were received from nearby residents regarding the deteriorating condition of this private property, including the accumulation of refuse and reports of rodent activity posing a health and safety concern to the surrounding neighbourhood. An inspection confirmed the property to be derelict, and Council has now directed that a formal order be served to the owner under the authority of the Urban and Rural Planning Act, 2000, the Occupancy and Maintenance Regulations, and the Towns and Local Service Districts Act, 2023.
While a mandatory compliance period will follow the order’s service, the Town recognizes the urgency of the situation and will proceed with emergency pest-control measures along the property boundary and within the Town-owned easement to help mitigate further impact on the neighbourhood.
The Town also acknowledges that there are other properties and areas where maintenance concerns exist, and work is ongoing to address them within the Town’s established processes. These matters take time, and the enforcement and legal steps required can sometimes take longer than preferred. Each situation is being reviewed carefully to ensure any action taken is responsible, effective, and in the community’s best interest.
Beyond this individual property, we are responding to the broader concerns residents have raised about rodent activity in the community, and we are working on developing pest-management strategies to support prevention and control across Gander.
Gander is a well-maintained and beautiful community, though, like every town, it faces occasional challenges that require attention. Council and staff take great pride in the community and remain committed to maintaining a safe, healthy, and welcoming environment for all residents. The Town will continue to provide updates as progress is made.
For residents looking for information and resources on how to prevent rodent activity, please visit:
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/pest-control-tips/rats-mice.html
