VILLA PARK

Two homeowners embroiled in a controversy over the feeding of wild ducks would rather neighbors try to resolve issues themselves instead of going straight to City Hall. Several of Judy and Ron Simons’ neighbors lodged complaints with the city because the Simonses had been feeding large numbers of wild ducks in their swimming pool for several years. As a result of the complaints, the City Council is considering an amendment to its bird ordinance to restrict the feeding of wild birds.

The Simonses said they aren’t taking issue with specifics of the amendment, but they believe the city wouldn’t be considering laws if the neighbors had just talked to them. The Simonses would like the council to hire a mediator to take care of neighborhood disputes.