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Essex County proclaims June 'Adopt a Cat Month,' highlights TNR and spay/neuter work
Summary
The county adopted a resolution recognizing June as Adopt a Cat Month, commending local groups for trap-neuter-return (TNR), spay/neuter and vaccination efforts and acknowledging Associated Humane Societies' role.
The Essex County Board of County Commissioners approved a proclamation recognizing June as "Adopt a Cat Month" and used the occasion to highlight trap-neuter-return (TNR), spay/neuter and vaccination efforts for community cats.
Commissioner Tasha Cooper introduced the proclamation and thanked the county administration and community partners for funding and supporting TNR activities. "We've had a tremendous impact with our community cat population," Brian Hackett, director of government and community relations for Associated Humane Societies, told the board. He also said the work helps get adoptable cats into homes and noted that "95% of the animals euthanized in our state are cats," underscoring the group's work to reduce euthanasia through community programs.
Commissioner Cooper named several volunteers, groups and individuals who contributed to county TNR and community-cat efforts and invited them to the dais for certificates. The board voted to adopt the proclamation by roll call; Commissioners Gill, Luciano, Marie Thomas, Richardson, Seibold, Vice President Cooper and President Palmeiras recorded yes votes; Commissioners Mercado and Sermons were absent.
The proclamation is symbolic recognition of county support for TNR and related programs; it does not create a programmatic funding obligation. County staff confirmed the county has supported TNR and spay/neuter initiatives and credited local volunteer organizations and Associated Humane Societies for implementation and public outreach.
After the vote, residents in the meeting—identified by one speaker as "Mama Meow" and others—addressed the board to thank commissioners for recognizing local rescuers, feeders and volunteers. The board also invited honorees to a photograph at the dais.
