Photo by Regina Doorn

Photo by Regina Doorn

BY REGINA DOORN
White Rock

It happened again last night:  a bear got into a trash roll cart and created a mess!  This is the third time in about two months.  We all know the drill:  secure your trash and don’t feed the bears.

Homeowners in our neighborhood are conscientious and diligent with regards to trash.  We share photos and videos of bear activity.  So, what’s the problem?  It’s the “vacant” homes which are for sale by local realtors and/or rentals with absentee landlords!

It’s not rocket science to prevent this from happening, but it does take effort.  I’m asking realtors, sellers and landlords/renters to help us out, here.  I feel that these folks shouldn’t just be “good neighbors”, but “better neighbors”!

When I spoke to the listing agent this morning, they asked “When is your trash pickup day”?  Really??  Don’t you know???  The last time this happened, at the same property on August 4, they had set the trash and recycles out the day before.  The contents of both bins were strewn about and blowing into our neighborhood!

I am asking all realtors and landlords to provide bear-resistant containers on their properties, starting yesterday!  Sure, the county is out of “free” containers, but how about we hold non-resident parties to a higher standard and require them to purchase a bear proof container?

Please folks, be aware, and stop making excuses!  Your actions affect OUR neighborhood.