The Hawaii County Policy Committee on Health, Safety, and Well-being convened on July 8, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding animal management, particularly concerning stray and feral animals. The meeting focused on proposed amendments to existing policies aimed at regulating the feeding of these animals on county-owned properties.

The first significant agenda item was an amendment to Section 4-3, which stipulates that individuals may not feed or attempt to feed stray or feral animals on county property unless such feeding is part of an authorized animal management program. This amendment is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, allowing time for the development of guidelines and training for the community on effective animal management practices.

Committee members expressed varying opinions on the amendment. One member highlighted the importance of incorporating data-driven assessments to ensure that any animal management program effectively reduces the population of stray animals. Concerns were raised about the potential redundancy of the proposed amendment, as previous discussions had already addressed similar issues.

Another member emphasized the need for a pilot project to explore effective strategies for managing cat colonies, particularly in sensitive areas like beach parks. They noted that managed cat populations could serve as a deterrent against other cats entering these areas, thus contributing to overall community safety and well-being.

The discussion also touched on the responsibilities of different county departments in implementing the proposed guidelines. There was a consensus that animal control should play a central role in overseeing the management of feeding programs, although concerns were raised about the department's capacity to enforce these regulations effectively.

The committee acknowledged the challenges posed by the growing population of stray animals and the need for a coordinated approach to address the issue. Members discussed the potential for contracting with nonprofit organizations to manage animal care and feeding programs, emphasizing the necessity of funding and resources to support these initiatives.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the complexity of animal management in Hawaii County, with members advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes community safety while addressing the needs of stray and feral animals. The committee plans to continue refining the proposed amendments and will seek further input from community stakeholders as they move forward with the initiative.