Oh rats! Problem gnaws at Lynners

LYNN – Known for its prestige and beautiful location, the Diamond District is a desired area to live in Lynn.However, some residents there have been facing a problem that is anything but beautiful. Rats have become an unwelcome addition to parts of the picturesque area.Annette Manfra has been a resident of Lynn for 35 years and lives in the Diamond District on Landon Circle. She is alarmed about the growing rat problem.?I consider myself an invested member of the community. I am invested in multiple organizations in the community and I am invested in my house,” said Manfra.But Manfra was in her driveway about 10 days ago when she was startled by an unpleasant site: a dead rat.?It wasn?t crushed, it was just dead. I think one of the local cats killed it,” said Manfra.The Lynn resident then went to her neighbors to discuss what she saw, only to find out that they have seen more and more rats as of late.?I just can?t take this anymore,” said Manfra. “It?s making me crazy.”Manfra believes certain neighbors lack of concern is the reason for the problem, claiming that some people do not cover their trash barrels and use thin shopping bags as trash bags. Also, she contends that health inspectors do not properly fine people.?If you hit someone in the wallet they are most likely to remember,” she said.Maureen Michalia, Manfra?s neighbor, has also witnessed rats in the Diamond District.?I saw one in my driveway and freaked out,” said Michalia. “I have lived here for 11 years and I never worried about rats.”Michalia also believes the reason for the problem is people?s lack of respect for proper trash disposal.?I can drive around the Diamond District alone and show you people who don?t have their trash covered,” said Manfra.Upset that her beloved neighborhood is seemingly being invaded by rats and fired up to do something, Manfra stormed to City Hall to speak to the health department.Manfra received what she claims were nonchalant answers about the problem.?I don?t think they are doing their job,” said Manfra. “They give you black boxes and then you never see them again. They don?t enforce the rules enough.”Several calls made to the health department this week were not returned.One of the main reasons this matter upsets Manfra so much is that it perpetuates the negative reputation Lynn has developed.?I defend the city. People say ?Oh you live in Lynn,? I say you wish you could live where I live,” said Manfra. “I want to hear we are trying to solve the problem. I think it?s gross negligence on behalf of the town. Where are our tax dollars going?”Lynn Ward 3 City Councilor Darren Cyr admits that there is a rat problem in the city.?There are rats everywhere in the city,” said Cyr.However, Cyr states that city officials are trying to be proactive to solve the problem.?Now we are going after the people who don?t take care of their trash,” said Cyr. “In the past we would just set up traps. But that got too costly and didn?t get to the root of the problem.”The city will fine someone who doesn?t properly take care of their trash. Fines range from $50 to $500.?People who don?t take care of their trash are really the main problem,” said Cyr. “All rats need to stay in the area are food and water and, once they have it, they will keep coming back to the source.”But Manfra is tired of them and ready to take action herself.?It never should have gotten to this point. There are no excuses,” said Manfra. “If I have to start a rat patrol I will.”