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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0193.018 2024-2026Gregory Wing 77-6128 Mamalahoa Hwy, Unit I Holualoa, HI 96725 wing.greg@gmai1.com 03/31/2025 Hawaii County Council 25 Aupuni St. Hilo, HI 96720 Subject: Letter of Support for 9 115-25 to Aloha Animal Alliance Dear Chair, Vice Chair, and Members of the Council, I am writing to express my strong support for the funding request submitted by Aloha Animal Alliance to implement a comprehensive program aimed at addressing the overpopulation of community cats on Hawaii Island. This initiative is crucial for improving the well-being of both animals and residents while fostering environmental responsibility and public health. My wife and I have been involved in the animal welfare community on Hawai'i Island for the past 5 years. During this time, we have fostered hundreds of kittens, built feeding stations for community cat colonies, assisted at TNR clinics, volunteered at HIHS and have assisted in transporting dozens of cats to the mainland. Through these activities, we have witnessed the chronic issues and challenges facing pet owners and those who care for community cats on our island. There are many organizations dedicated to animal welfare, but a lack of communication makes it difficult to coordinate efforts, share resources, and connect potential volunteers with opportunities to assist. By addressing these challenges, Aloha Animal Alliance is building alliances and putting structure to the various efforts currently underway. I believe their approach will result in meaningful progress in population stabilization, reducing shelter intake rates, mitigating community concerns about free -roaming cats, and decreasing associated environmental impacts. Beyond immediate benefits, sustainability and expansion are key components of this program. The success of these pilot efforts can serve as a model that can be used island wide. Aloha Animal Alliance has a proven track record of responsible and humane animal management, and their strategic, data -driven approach ensures that funding will be used effectively. I urge you to support their request, as this program will bring significant benefits to both the people and animals of Hawaii Island. Thank you for your time and consideration of this important proposal. Best Regards, Gregory Wing