The seagull invasion at Orchards Mall in Benton Harbor could soon be a thing of the past.
At Tuesday’s regular Benton Charter Township board meeting, County Commissioner Chokwe Pitchford said the mall has paid Chicago-area company Bird-X to install sound-emitting devices that will keep the seagulls away.
“They are speakers that do not emit sound loud enough for residents to hear,” said Pitchford, at the meeting. “But the seagulls find it really annoying.”
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Pitchford said Bird-X has a lot of experience with large FedEx facilities, and advertises an 85 to 90 percent reduction in one to three weeks.
“Over the next few weeks, drive by the mall and see if you don’t see a reduction in the birds,” Pitchford said.
That statement was met with comments on the multitude of potholes in the mall’s parking lot and surrounding roads. Pitchford said mall leadership has been in contact with companies to come and fill the potholes.
Economic plan
Pitchford also informed the board that mall ownership will be presenting an economic development plan to him by May 26. Pitchford, State Rep. Joey Andrews and Township Supervisor Kathy Yates will then review the plan, which Pitchford said includes details on the investments the owners will put into the property.
“It doesn’t go anywhere unless it makes sense for Benton Charter Township,” Pitchford said.
