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LaSalle County residents press committee for action on feral cat colony; officials weigh ordinance, nuisance route
Summary
Homeowners described property damage and health concerns from a colony of roughly 40 feral cats. Animal control staff outlined kennel and shelter agreements, microchipping limits, and cost and enforcement hurdles. The committee asked the state's attorney to research legal options and to report back.
Jacqueline Hughes, a homeowner on Highland Drive west of Dayton, told the LaSalle County Public Safety Committee that roughly 40 feral cats are roaming her neighborhood and damaging property, and asked the county to consider an ordinance or resources to control the population.
Hughes said the cats have torn landscaping and pool covers, emit a foul odor near her flower beds, and frighten her 4‑year‑old daughter. "At the least, can you give us some resources, do some research on vets that can help, or adopt a trap, neuter, and release program to help control the population?" Hughes said.
The issue prompted an extended discussion of enforcement options and costs. County animal control staff described current agreements with area shelters and kennels, including IVAR and Norway Kennel, and warned that changing to a leased facility would create staffing and record‑keeping demands.
Animal control staff said IVAR currently charges about $50 per night to board a dog,…
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