'Ongoing' rodent issue at CofC closed another dining facility, Beaver says

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCIV) — What College of Charleston emergency management officials describe as "ongoing pest issues" has closed another campus dining facility.

In an email sent to students and employees Tuesday, Director of Environmental Health and Safety Randy Beaver stated City Bistro closed at 5 p.m. and would be closed temporarily to address the issues.

"While the College has recently undertaken several repairs to dining facilities on campus, physical plant staff and the College’s pest control vendor need additional access and time this evening to complete intrusion control measures," Beaver wrote.

All other campus dining facilities remain open on a regular schedule.

City Bistro opened to students in October 2011.

Last week, the Chick-fil-A at Calhoun and St. Philip streets closed to address "intrusion issues" associated with increased rodent activity downtown.

CofC officials have confirmed the rodents in question are mice and rats. Squirrels, hamsters, guinea pigs, porcupines and even beavers are also rodents.

Beaver says the increased rodent activity may also be related to the major floods the past few years.

Students and employees living downtown are asked to do their part in battling the problem by reporting any rodent sightings, and to deter rodents by keeping their homes clean and securely storing food.

People can report rodent activity by calling 843-953-5550, or by e-mailing physicalplanthelp@cofc.edu.