HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.130 2024-2026Sent: Monday, July 7, 2025 11:36 AM
To: maryrose rainbowfriends.org
Cc: Council Testimony
Subject: RE: Oppose bill 51 in its current writing
CD"
c.._ C='o
v o -<
kA
-r
From: maryrose rainbowfriends.org
Sent: Monday, July 7, 2025 10:58 AM
Subject: Oppose bill 51 in its current writing
Mary Rose Krijgsman
maryroseCg)raibbowfriends.org
July 7, 2025
Re: testimony regarding bill 51
Aloha Chair, Vice Chair and Members of the Council,
I, Mary Rose Krijgsman and the signers below, oppose Bill 51 in its current writing, criminalizing and fining
people who feed community cats on Hawaii Island. This is not the answer. I am the Founder and
President of Rainbow Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kurtistown Hawaii. Over the last 26 years we have
conducted numerous TNR (Trap Neuter Return) of cats of individuals around the Island in less or remote
areas and also many MTNR (Managed Trap Neuter Return) at different transfer stations and parks. We
have spayed or neutered more than 35,000 animals free to the public and on top of that the thousands of
animals who came through our doors who then found a good home.
For the first time, Hawai'i County is piloting a comprehensive cat management program. It includes
certified caretakers, designated feeding stations, data collection and targeted sterilization - 11 ,he
Comm. No. I
1 Ref. To:
Ref. note � :�=U-L 2025
components needed to reduce populations overtime, not just move the problem around. Designated
feeding stations, not put in areas sensitive to wildlife.
If this bill does move forward, it should be amended to clearly state that "Approved community cat
caretakers under county -recognized programs will NOT be in violation of the law under Bill 51. This
positive action supports the vision of empowering communities with resources and knowledge to ensure
the safety, health and well-being of the cats and their caretakers.
Without this clarity, the bill risks undermining a program that is just beginning to gain traction and trust.
We need community buy -in, and we need people who are trained and supervised to stay engaged - not
fear legal consequences for doing the right thing.
Please give this program the time and support it needs to show results. Humane, data -driven solutions
are possible - and they start with partnerships, not penalties.
The goal of bringing communities for mutual support will create a sustainable, peaceful future for our
Island home and its animals. Please oppose Bill 51, unless there is a clear amendment for approved
community cat caretakers under county -recognized programs.
This amendment and opposition will support rescue organizations and their leaders, as they work
tirelessly alongside the County of Hawaii Departments in their efforts towards a common goal.
Thankyou foryour time and consideration,
Sincerely,
Mary Rose Krijgsman
maryrose rainbowfriends.org
Sabina Ludwig
U alla9her57(g)gmaiLcom
Laurette Martel -King
martelking2(Ebgmail.com
Linda Brooks
nhawaiiPlive.com
Gardenia Nisperos
gardenianisperos gmail.com