HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0091.015 2022-2024 / Ac,
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From: Erica Dror
Sent: Monday, February 06, 2023 11:36 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: SUPPORT FOR BILL Communication 91 re Bill 22-Creating an Animal Control &
Protection Agency
Dear Hon. County Council Members and Mayor Roth:
I am writing to express strong support for the passage of Bill 22 on tomorrow's agenda,which would start the process of
much-needed fundamental change in the way Animal Control Services has operated on the Big Island of Hawaii. This
ordinance basically amends Chapters 2 and 4 of the Hawai'i County Codes for purposes of the "creation"of the
Agency. As part of a grassroots coalition of nonprofit groups, residents, and other stakeholders, I
would advise that Chapter 4 be comprehensively revised and updated.
However, I am among hundreds if not thousands of supporters who are still not clear at this time, whether Chapter 4
is intended to remain the new Agency's mandate, or if the County plans to require a detailed Scope of Work within a
comprehensive Strategic Plan, as we hope. The legislation also leaves a few additional key questions open that
must be addressed, including:
• Establish an Oversight Committee or Advisory Working Group—we advise that this be added directly to the Bill,as a
friendly amendment.
• Revise Chapter 4, Hawaii County Code—we advise this be completed before moving forward with the creation of this
Agency.
• Create the Agency's "Scope of Work"—as opposed to Chapter 4 serving as the Agency's mandate; includes
identification of operational guidelines,organization chart,provision for services,etc.This can happen after the
Agency is established, but a commitment of intent should be made at this stage.
• Authorize the Implementation of other Services&Programs—Spay/Neuter,TNR,adoptions,microchip,etc.;with a
clear definition of who will own and be accountable for these critical functions within Animal Control.
I respectfully urge the Council to take timely steps providing for the authority and duties of the Agency and its
Administrator, together with others in the community through a working group of stakeholders and experts from
Hawaii, and a consultant with experience advising Municipal Agencies on Animal Control operations. Consultant,
Kristen Hassen, currently working with Maui Humane Society, has already offered to meet with the new
Agency's planning team this spring.
Please recall that an update of Chapter 4 was recommended by both NACA and HCFA over 20 years ago. NACA
states in their report, "County of Hawai'i should reevaluate its Animal Ordinances. Minimum holding time is
unusually short and not consistent with other Animal Control Agencies"; while HCILA reports that "Council
should formulate policy and draft a comprehensive code revision of Chapter 4".
I appreciate your consideration of this testimony and you can count on my vocal support for humane, effective
policymaking measures on behalf of Big Island animals and the public safety. It is past time to bring AC in line
with modern practices such as on other Hawaiian islands, to great success.
Sincerely,
Amit Elazar(310) 909-9180, residing at: 15-1619 12th Ave., Keaau, HI 96749. (�
Comm. N
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1 Ref. date . FEB - 7 2023