[Reprinted from original]

MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio -- Middleburg Heights officials and Ohio Department of Natural Resources wildlife experts have been working toward a solution to coyote problems Middleburg residents brought to light last November.

Bob Downey, executive assistant to the mayor, told City Council at the March 10 meeting “a sample coyote management plan” will be available soon for review.

“The state has spent a lot of time developing this, along with our animal control (officer), Bob Downey, and the police chief,” explained Mayor Matt Castelli. “There are a few things we will have to identify that may be specific to Middleburg Heights, but it looks like when this is done, this may be one of the first urban coyote management plans in the state of Ohio.”

Councilman Tim Ali shared his hope the solution does not include "murdering any of the coyotes or trapping them and torturing them." He said the animals possibly could be crated and then relocated.

"Everything that is in the management plan will meet state laws and requirements, so we're mindful of some of those issues," Castelli responded.

Councilman Bill Meany, who resides in the Middlebrook neighborhood, said he walked his dog in the area and found coyotes feeding on a dead deer.

"After they ate the entire deer, the coyotes moved on, so I haven't seen a coyote in probably over a month," Meany said. "I used to see one nearly every day."

Downey indicated another meeting with state officials will take place before the management plan is presented to council for consideration.

Residents can report coyote sightings using the police department’s non-emergency number (440-243-1234). They also are encouraged to not feed the wildlife.