HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.071 2024-2026From: Jane Flores
Sent: Friday, July 4, 2025 6:53 PM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: Testimony Supporting Bill 51
Aloha a Councilmembers,
I strongly support Bill 51, which prohibits feeding feral animals on County property, to protect HawaiTs endangered
native species and public health. As someone who deeply cares for both animals and our fragile ecosystems, I recognize
the urgent need for this measure.
Feral cats are a devastating threat to our native wildlife, including the endangered nene. Just this April, a nene gosling
died from toxoplasmosis—a disease spread by cats —after being exposed to contaminated feeding sites in Lili'uokalani
Gardens. This tragedy was preventable. Feeding feral cats sustains their populations, increasing predation and disease
transmission to vulnerable species. It also creates unsafe conditions in our parks, where feces and food waste attract
pests and spread illness.
I understand the compassion behind feeding feral cats, but good intentions must not come at the cost of extinction. As a
responsible pet owner with indoor -only cats, I know firsthand that keeping cats contained protects both them and
wildlife. Feral cats suffer on the streets, facing cruelty, starvation, and injury —leaving them outdoors is not humane.
Meanwhile, our native birds, like the nene, have nowhere else to go.
Bill 51 is a balanced solution that prioritizes both animal welfare and conservation. Permitting feeding would only
prolong the problem, encouraging abandonment and further harm. Instead, we must focus on education, responsible
pet ownership, and stronger enforcement against animal cruelty and abandonment.
Hawai'i's native species are irreplaceable. Let's honor our kuleana to protect them by passing Bill 51. Mahalo for your
leadership.
Sincerely,
c,
[Your Name]
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