Alpena council postpones second reading of feral-cat ordinance after residents urge more study
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Summary
After public commenters and local TNR advocates urged humane, science-based approaches, the Alpena City Council voted to postpone the second reading of Ordinance 25-5-14 (amending Chapter 10, Animals) to Dec. 15 to gather more information and consult county animal-control officials.
The Alpena City Council on Nov. 17 agreed to postpone the second reading of Ordinance 25-5-14, a proposed amendment to Chapter 10 of the city code addressing animals, after residents urged the council to seek more information and consider trap-neuter-return and other humane measures.
Julie Gondula, who identified herself as a local resident, told the council the draft ordinance treats community cats like wildlife and “does not actually address the feral cat overpopulation issue.” She warned that feeding bans and similar restrictions have been ineffective in other communities, can lead to starvation and increased disease, and impede trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs.
Edna Sorensen, speaking for Northeast Michigan TNR, asked the council to table the ordinance and consult the group before proceeding. Sorensen provided program figures: more than 400 animals fixed and returned last year and nearly 300 fixed so far this year, and described limited local veterinary capacity. She offered the organization’s help, volunteers, traps and training and asked for additional information before the council acts.
The presiding officer said the county is responsible for animal control countywide and proposed postponing the ordinance so staff and council can meet with interested groups and determine the county’s plan. A motion to postpone Ordinance 25-5-14 to the Dec. 15 council meeting was made, seconded, and carried by roll call.
Why it matters: The ordinance would change how the city addresses unowned or free-roaming cats; residents and TNR advocates told council the draft may be unenforceable and counterproductive. Council delayed action to allow additional stakeholder meetings and to obtain information from county animal-control authorities.
Next steps: The ordinance will return to the Alpena City Council agenda on Dec. 15 for further consideration after staff follow-up and stakeholder meetings.
