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Residents urge North Hempstead to create a cat shelter, say Harborfest sign was barred
Summary
Multiple residents and local advocates told the town board that North Hempstead is the only Long Island town without a cat shelter and described a recent Harborfest incident where event organizers would not allow their banner; they urged the board to act and requested meetings with town staff.
Residents and animal-welfare advocates used the public-comment period at the Town of North Hempstead’s June 4 meeting to press the board to establish a municipal cat shelter, saying the town’s lack of a dedicated facility leaves domestic cats without consistent rehoming options.
Stuart Kroll, speaking for the campaign to get North Hempstead a cat shelter, said volunteers are educating residents about the lack of local services and described being told at Port Washington’s Harborfest that the group could not display its banner stating, “the only town in Long Island without a cat shelter.” Kroll said the group avoided a legal fight so they could focus on outreach and that they plan to escalate public education efforts.
Dr. Sharda Jayagopal told the board that towns smaller than North Hempstead have run humane, volunteer- and donation-supported shelters; she said a properly run facility would reduce emergency costs related to animal control and that the barrier is political will, not money. “A cat shelter is not a luxury. It's an act of responsibility, compassion, and basic civility,” she said.
Several other residents — including Louise Lamanna and Roberto Bonelli — described personal encounters rescuing and caring for stray and feral cats and urged the town to partner with volunteers, donors and nearby animal-welfare organizations. Participants asked to meet with the supervisor and requested follow-up from grant and program staff; Supervisor DeSina said staff would follow up and indicated interest in scheduling meetings.
The town board did not take formal action on the matter during the meeting; residents said they will continue organizing, outreach and advocacy and that they expected to return to upcoming board meetings to press the issue.
