Dunkirk’s seagulls got a reprieve last year, but the program to remove their nests and discourage nuisance flocks is returning.

The Common Council approved a contract last month with the U.S. Department of Agriculture for removal of eggs and nests from the roofs of old buildings near the Save-a-lot Plaza on East Fourth Street.

The cost is not to exceed $6,816. It’s supposed to be paid by 10 property owners in the area, with the city’s building and zoning department helping to complete the arrangements with the USDA.

Removal of nests and eggs is supposed to start this month and continue every two weeks through July.

Council’s resolution notes that it is illegal to harm the seagulls themselves without permits, but the USDA can collect their nests and eggs.

Councilwoman Natalie Luczkowiak has spearheaded the seagull effort and spoke briefly about it before council passed the resolution.

“Even though last year the USDA wildlife services did not have the funding to proceed with this project, this year they do,” she said.

“Year 1 and Year 2, not only was it not a cost to the taxpayers, there was a surplus. This year, I project the same surplus, because the issue itself is not at all like it used to be.”

“We’ll just pick up where we left off two years ago. We’re all set to go,” said Alan Gustafson from the city building/zoning department.