December 10, 2018

St. Catharines Hospital demolition leads to concerns about vermin

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Rats living in the derelict hospital on Queenston Street could soon be looking for a new home, when the demolition of the massive building begins later this month.

Merritton ward Coun. Greg Miller said rat problems were among the top three issues in his area when he spoke to voters during his recent election campaign.

“Certainly when you’re taking down a big abandoned site like that, it becomes a concern. I haven’t heard specifically what the plans are, but for me and Coun. (Lori) Littleton and city staff, it’s top of mind,” he said, adding the city will be working with the contractor during demolition to make sure the potential rat problem is addressed.

“Whether it’s baiting or catching them … we have to make sure they don’t infest neighbourhoods.”

The city launched a residential rat control rebate program earlier this year that covers half the cost of hiring licenced Ontario exterminators to assist with the removal of rats from exteriors of residential properties, up to $200.

But in addition to the rebate program, Miller said the city needs a comprehensive plan to deal with the problem.

“It’s a citywide issue and you’re not going to solve it by one neighbour dealing with it and every house around him not dealing with it,” he said.

Developer Michael Corrado, a partner with property-owner Queenston Oakdale Ltd., hopes that after sitting vacant for more than five years, any rats that might have once called the building home will have already moved on.

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