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From:
Troy Bruzdzinski
Sent:
Sunday, May 18, 2025 1:36 PM
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CDs,
To:
Council Testimony
(7: CD
Subject:
Testimony Opposing Resolution 140-25
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**Testimony in Opposition
to Resolution 140-25**
Dear Council Members,
:
I strongly urge you to oppose Resolution 140-25, which would allocate county funds to support Trap -
Neuter -Return -Manage (TNRM) programs for feral cats. As someone deeply concerned about Hawai`i's
endangered wildlife, I cannot support a method that has repeatedly failed to protect our native species.
TNR does not work in open environments like Hawaii, where pet abandonment and new cat arrivals
constantly replenish colonies. Studies show it takes decades to reduce populations, all while feral cats
continue killing endangered birds like n6n6 and seabirds. I've personally seen feral cats attacking `a`o
and ua,'u, leavingthem dead without even consuming them. These are preventable losses.
Beyond predation, feral cats spread toxoplasmosis, a deadly disease for nen6, monk seals, and even
humans. Feeding stations only worsen the problem by attracting cats —and the endangered birds they
prey upon —into dangerous proximity. At sites like Queen's Marketplace, nen6 return even after food is
removed, putting them at further risk.
The majority of Hawaii residents support stronger action to reduce feral cat populations, not sustain
them through TNR. We need enforceable policies —like mandatory spay/neuter laws, feeding bans, and
humane removal —that actually protect our native species.
Please reject Resolution 140-25. Hawai`i's wildlife is vanishing, and we cannot afford ineffective
solutions. Fund strategies that prioritize our irreplaceable ecosystems, not invasive predators.
Mahalo for your consideration.
Troy Bruzdzinski
Comm. Mo. Bq
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