HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0091.060 2022-2024 P/COU-nCit
bill 22
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February 20,2023
To: Mayor Mitch Roth
Members of the Hawaii County Council
Submitted By: Kaua'i Humane Society -<
RE: Bill 22:Creating An Animal Control and Protection Agency.
Testimony in support
The Kauai Humane Society(KHS)supports Bill 22 that would create an Animal Control and Protection
Agency. I have had the privilege to communicate with employees of the County of Hawaii Animal
Control Services and find the staff to be hardworking and dedicated. KHS understands the challenges of
functioning as an animal control agency,as well as an adoption agency.The enterprise of creating an
animal control and protection agency is both provocative and intimidating, but you are in a position to
build a foundation that will support a successful agency and provide the resources to maintain success.
Animal control has gone through many changes since the mid-1800s and today is seen as an agency for
animals and humans. It looks at how to keep animals from coming in by taking steps to decrease pet
overpopulation(through spaying and neutering), intake diversion (aiding pet owners and Good
Samaritans),and assisting pet owners in the field by helping them come into compliance with local
ordinances. It ensures that the animals in the facility are having all their needs met, physically and
mentally.And it looks for opportunities to find positive outcomes for animals through adoptions and
transfers,which will help keep cages and kennels available for animals that need to come into the
facility.Staff and leadership experienced in animal welfare can help build and grow these
programs/protocols assisting in the success of the agency while ensuring public safety.
KHS commends and encourages the development of a new agency and the identification of resources
and staffing to ensure the agency's success.We believe this step will benefit your community and the
houseless animals of Hawaii County.
Respectfully,
Nicole Schafer Crane
Executive Director
Kaua'i Humane Society
nicole@kauaihumane.org
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Ref. Date FEB 2 2 2023