New Yorkers Convert Puddle Into An Open Aquarium, But Some Are Not Happy With It

Je-Quan Irving, a 47-year-old AAA driver and one of the men behind the project, explained that the group purchased the goldfish about a week ago as part of an effort to "spruce up" the neighborhood. The fish share their watery home with various debris, including cigarette butts, beer caps, and other discarded items.

바카라�We바카라�re doing this to bring a sense of peace and beauty to the area,바카라� Irving said. The group has plans to add snails, lights, and a filtration system, intending to expand the project in the future. They also plan to remove the fish in the fall and give them to local children, with hopes of reintroducing new fish in the spring.

Despite the group바카라�s intentions, the makeshift aquarium has drawn criticism from some residents and animal advocates. Records show at least three complaints have been filed with 311 in the past week, and a local social media campaign has been urging others to report the situation. One concerned resident, who goes by the Reddit handle "Plantsnotpants," has taken 36 fish under the cover of night, citing inhumane conditions.

바카라�I tried to offer him a proper tank for the fish, but he wasn바카라�t interested,바카라� the resident said. 바카라�This isn바카라�t about stealing fish; it바카라�s about providing them with a humane environment.바카라�

The city바카라�s Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has been involved, attempting to shut off the leaking hydrant multiple times. DEP officials have also asked the men to remove the fish, emphasizing that the current location is neither safe nor suitable for the goldfish.

Beth DeFalco, the DEP바카라�s Deputy Commissioner for Public Affairs and Communications, expressed concern over the situation: 바카라�While we appreciate the community spirit, there are serious safety concerns with leaking hydrants, including water pressure and supply issues for the neighborhood. We know there바카라�s a better home for these goldfish than on a sidewalk.바카라�