Fayette aldermen approve temporary moratorium on cat trapping while ordinance is drafted

The Fayette Board of Aldermen on March 10 unanimously approved an emergency moratorium on the trapping of stray and feral cats while the city drafts a formal ordinance and seeks legal guidance.

The moratorium, approved by a roll‑call vote of six Aye and no Nays, followed public comments from residents urging the city to adopt permitting or a contract with a state‑licensed rescue to ensure humane treatment. Bekki Galloway asked the council to consider a requirement for permits to trap cats or to arrange trap‑neuter‑return (TNR) programs or foster placement through organizations such as Paws. Kelly Beeler spoke in support of Galloway’s proposal.

City staff said action is needed for enforceability. City Marshal Timothy Wells told the council that without an ordinance the police lack authority to enforce trapping rules; Wells said he will consult the City Attorney and report back. City Administrator Deanna Cooper said she will follow up on next steps.

Some speakers raised practical concerns. Resident Mike Battles said that if he found a stray cat in a trap he would care for the animal or try to locate its owner rather than notify police, and asked about seasonal closures of DC Rogers and Peters lakes. Cooper explained the seasonal closures are intended to prevent damage to roads and facilities in winter weather and noted the city reopens sites when conditions permit.

The board’s action is temporary and expressly subject to legal review. The next step is for city legal staff to advise the aldermen and for council members to consider a draft ordinance at a future meeting. The mayor and city staff indicated the council will revisit related policy options, including TNR and partnerships with licensed rescues, at an upcoming meeting.