HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.393 2024-2026From: Pat Scullary
Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 10:35 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: RE: Support for Bill 51 (Draft 2) - Prohibiting the Feeding of Feral or Stray Animals on
County Property
Dear Chair and Members of the Hawaii County Council,
I am writing to express my strong support for Bill 51 (Draft 2), which amends Chapter 4, Article 3, of the
Hawaii County Code to prohibit the feeding of feral or stray animals on county -owned, leased, rented,
managed, or operated property.
This legislation is a necessary step toward protecting public health, safety, and the environment.
Unregulated feeding of stray animals often leads to increased populations of feral cats and other non-
native species, which in turn threatens native wildlife, including endangered birds such as the `alae
ke`oke`o and the nene. Furthermore, unmanaged feeding sites can result in unsanitary conditions, litter
accumulation, and conflict within the community.
While compassion for animals is important, structured and responsible management —through
coordinated spay/neuter programs and regulated care —offers a more sustainable and humane solution.
Bill 51 encourages such accountability while safeguarding county lands and native ecosystems.
I respectfully urge the Council to pass Bill 51 to support a cleaner, healthier, and more ecolo ally
balanced Hawaii Island.
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Thank you for your consideration and service to our community.
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Sincerely,
Pat Scullary
Hilo, HI 96720
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