Deer don’t pay property taxes

I got the opportunity, along with many of my neighbors, to comment on Mt. Lebanon’s deer (mis)management program at a recent meeting.

The comments were numerous real-life accounts that illustrated the dangers these animals present, including a deer breaking through the glass door of a home. causing thousands of dollars in damages. Except for a few who want to “coexist” with deer, everyone expressed their concerns about the impact — public health, traffic accidents, financial, environmental and personal safety.

Why should residents have to spend money on various deer sprays and devices (that are minimally effective), install expensive fences (which deer can leap over) or grow only deer-resistant plants? Who owns property and pays taxes — the deer or me?

It should never have gotten to this point, but nothing has been done to manage this problem since the last cull in 2008.

Commissioners approved an archery hunt. That is something, but it’s not enough. Experts have told the commissioners that the most effective way to reduce the deer population is sharpshooters.

Commissioners need to stop trying to please the small number of people who want to “co-exist” with deer or who act as if it will be the wild, wild west if sharpshooters are brought in.

Commissioners need to listen to their constituents who are frustrated and tired of the needs of the deer being placed above theirs. Do something! BECKY McDERMOTT

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