East Valley Neighborhoods Face ‘Udder’ Chaos

Residents of Gilbert, Arizona, are facing an unexpected challenge as herds of cows, sometimes up to 40 in number, have taken up residence in their neighborhoods. Initially embraced as a charming addition to the community, the cows are now causing significant disruption.

Garret Boykin, a Chandler resident, reflected on the initial excitement, saying, “When they first came, you know they were a novelty! Here are these critters roaming around, doing their thing.” However, that novelty has worn off.

Residents have reported increasingly aggressive behavior from the cows, particularly in the Adora Trails area. In addition to their intimidating presence, many homeowners wake up to find their lawns destroyed and driveways littered with cow droppings.

A recent meeting at Gilbert City Hall drew dozens of concerned residents eager to express their frustrations and push for a resolution. City officials indicated that zoning changes might be considered to limit the cows’ presence, but complications arise since some animals originate from the Gila River Indian Reservation, making enforcement tricky for local law enforcement.

One homeowners association is exploring the installation of a wrought iron fence to deter the cows. The Gilbert Town Council has discussed waiving permit fees to expedite the fencing process. Mayor Scott Anderson assured residents of the council’s commitment to finding a solution.

For now, Gilbert residents continue to grapple with the inconvenience as they seek relief from their unexpected bovine neighbors.