Margate approves first reading to allow removal of nonnative invasive iguanas after residents cite property damage and safety concerns

The Margate City Commission on May 7 voted to approve first reading of an ordinance amending the city code to allow capture and humane euthanasia of nonnative invasive iguanas and related species on private property, with an amendment referencing the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission list of nonnative invasive species.

The change alters the city's animal-cruelty prohibition to add an exception for nonnative invasive iguanas and other species identified by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, and for 'certain nuisance animals' noted in the ordinance as amended. The vote on first reading was 4-1 (Commissioners Rosano, Casiano, Simone and Vice Mayor Serio voting yes; Mayor Arlene Schwartz voting no). The ordinance will return for a second reading.

Residents from Paradise Gardens and other neighborhoods urged the commission to act, saying iguanas have burrowed under seawalls, shredded landscaping and sickened pets. John Donahue, president of Paradise Gardens Section 4, said his community has seen expensive structural damage: "We had a person screaming that they're over my doors. . . . We had a woman…