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Martin County tackling raccoon problem

Posted at 5:50 PM, Feb 26, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-26 22:23:50-05

JENSEN BEACH, Fla. -- Martin County leaders are going on the offensive to tackle a growing raccoon problem in a Jensen Beach neighborhood.

Residents say the furry pests are tearing up yards, cars and even roofs.

For months Bill Fiddes has watched hundreds of the furry pests come from the nearby woods on Hickory Ridge Drive.

"End up tearing up a strip of the lawn," says Fiddes.

It's not just yards, but cars too."

"It's hard to find parts for the jeep," says Glenn Ballantine.

The animals have cost some neighbors hundreds of dollars. The county told them they could do what they had to do on their property.

"Went ahead a got a trap," says Fiddes.

For months residents have called for help and finally county commissioners say they're ready to answer the call. They plan on sending county crews next week.

"At least keep them to a reasonable level," says Fiddes.

The county is putting together a team of different agencies including animal control, fish and wildlife, and the health department to tackle the problem.